Monika and Otta in Albert I'mStein and Kaleos frames

Otta and Monika aren't just mother and daughter. Their relationship is also a strong friendship.

30. June 2025, Author: Barbara Garaj, Photo: Jakub Čaprnka

They understand each other without words, yet they love long conversations that bring them joy. Though a generation apart, they share a passion for movement, a sense of style and aesthetics, and a love of good food.

Otta also has a deep connection to gastronomy. She's always been known for creating unforgettable culinary experiences around her. They love spending time together actively, but they also know how to enjoy quiet moments – cooking together or discovering the beauty of design and style.

During her chemistry studies, Monika spent some time in Prague, where she fully realized the value of family roots. Today she works on developing new drinks and foods – connecting science, attention to detail, and a sense of taste so that the final product has both meaning and value. She enjoys variety, seeking balance, and discovering new possibilities.

Otta recently ventured into new professional waters. She combined years of business experience with her background in public procurement, which she returned to after some time away.

Alongside work, she stays true to movement, which has always been a natural part of her life. She devoted herself to it back when the kids were small, and just as much today when they're grown.

Monika developed her relationship with movement from early childhood. Otta often took her along to workouts, so an active lifestyle became something completely natural for her.

Today, yoga brings them closest together. For Otta, it has become more than just a form of movement over time – it's a path and a way to find balance, calm, and inner strength. Their shared classes are a precious space for both to pause and tune in – to themselves and to life.

"Sport was always a natural part of life with us. Everyone found their own thing – some even several favorite activities. We guided the kids toward movement from early on, so they'd stay active and full of energy in adulthood."

Monika doesn't shy away from athletic challenges. She came to triathlon gradually. First she enjoyed running, then cycling captivated her and she started participating in various cycling competitions. Eventually she added swimming and triathlon became her passionate challenge.

She recently successfully completed her first Ironman, which was a major personal milestone for her. Her motto goes: "Today's success is tomorrow's standard." She connects sport with travel, which brings her new places and experiences. The whole family supports her activities with enthusiasm and watches her determination and progress with admiration.

The kitchen is the heart of home in their family. A place where relationships deepen and fragrant memories form. Her parents always created a space at home where food didn't just mean what's on the plate, but also what happens around it – aromas, conversations, laughter, and occasionally small arguments too.

This everyday life gradually became a way to pass on values, closeness, and the feeling that home isn't about perfection, but about honesty, interest, and consciously cultivated togetherness to Monika and her brother Martin.

"The greatest joy comes from ordinary moments with those we love. I believe in relationships built on honesty, humanity, and goodwill. Good can be carried forward through quiet, everyday gestures too."

They came to ZITA on friends' recommendations. Monika wanted to choose new prescription glasses and Otta accompanied her. They spend time together whenever possible. Even an optician visit was an opportunity to be together and enjoy a moment just for themselves.

Monika was looking for something exceptional, not quite classic, so she chose green frames by Albert I'mStein that perfectly captured her style.

"I liked several frames, so deciding wasn't easy. The lovely specialist at ZITA played a big role too – she had excellent insights and showed me models that ended up suiting me best."

While Monika tried on prescription models, Otta walked through the entire optician's and sunglasses from Spanish brand Kaleos caught her eye. She tried them on just out of curiosity, but ended up taking them home.

Both are delighted with their new frames, not only because they suit them, but also because each found something in them that fits who she is.

"When people meet us, they often ask: 'Those glasses are from ZITA, right?' They just recognize it."