In this episode of Inside the Frame, I sit down with Susan Boni, a veteran custom picture framer with decades of experience in the industry. Susan grew up in the framing business, working in her parents' shop from the age of 12. She's seen the industry's evolution firsthand and has a wealth of knowledge to share.

Throughout our conversation, Susan emphasized the importance of loving what you do and connecting with your customers personally. She shares insights into how she approaches each framing project, considering the client's personal style, the environment where the piece will be displayed, and the unique qualities of the artwork itself.

Key Takeaways:

• When starting out, invest in basic, quality equipment. You don't need fancy, expensive tools to do great framing work.
• Take the time to get to know your customers. Ask about their homes, personal styles, and jobs. This will help you make frame selections that truly resonate with them.
• Don't be afraid to suggest unique, outside-the-box framing options. Sometimes, the most unexpected choices end up being the most loved.
• Educate your customers about the framing process and the materials you use. This helps them appreciate the value of your work.
• Embrace the power of social media and online resources to connect with other framers, learn new techniques, and showcase your work to potential customers.

Susan's passion for her craft is evident in every word she speaks. Her commitment to creating beautiful, lasting framed pieces that her customers will cherish for generations is truly inspiring. Whether you're a seasoned framer or just starting out, this episode is full of wisdom and insights you won't want to miss.

About Susan Boni

Susan started Frames of Mine when she was 22, growing up in the family business since she was 12. She was the only family member who really loved it. Susan has an Art History and Interior Design degree from the New York Institute of Technology. She began to learn so much of the arts, mixed with sales from my family in the store, and she was able to combine it all into what the store has become.

Mentioned in This Episode

• Find out more about Frames of Mine
• Follow Frames of Mine on Instagram and Facebook
• Learn more about The Frame Shoppe

Welcome to the very first episode of Inside the Frame! I'm Tracey Harlan, owner of The Frame Shop in Augusta, Georgia, and I'm thrilled to kick off this podcast, which is all about custom framing, art, business, and so much more.

I bought my frame shop four years ago without knowing much about framing or art. The previous owner mentored me for a year, teaching me the ropes before I took over completely. It's been quite a journey, and I've fallen in love with the art of framing. This podcast has been an idea brewing in my mind for a while now. As a small business owner, I always seek ways to connect with people, share knowledge, and build community. I believe a podcast is a perfect way to start conversations about the craft of custom framing.

In this introductory episode, I’ll give you a taste of what’s to come. We'll explore all aspects of custom framing, from the creative process to different techniques and styles. I'll introduce you to talented framers, artists, and designers with a special focus on highlighting women in the field. We'll also dive into topics like art collecting, interior design, and how to work with your framer. Plus, I'll share my experiences as a woman entrepreneur, including marketing strategies and business challenges.

Key takeaways from this episode:

Custom framing is a blend of art and science. It creates frames that complement the artwork and the owner's style.

• The podcast will feature interviews with framers, gallery owners, interior designers, artists, and other small business owners.
• We'll explore how custom framing intersects with art, design, craftsmanship, preservation, and personal expression.
• The show aims to be a resource for homeowners, art collectors, small business owners, and professional framers alike.
• I am committed to supporting and uplifting other women in the field, sharing experiences, and celebrating successes.

Whether you're a framing enthusiast, an art lover, or just curious about the world of custom framing, I invite you to join me on this exciting journey. Let's explore the wonderful world of framing together!

Resources mentioned:

• Email me
• Visit our website