Photograph courtesy of Wilson Picture Framing

Whether you received a new print for the holidays or you’ve had a beloved poster rolled up in the shipping tube for months, let this be the nudge you need to get it framed.

I know, I know, custom framing can be expensive, especially if you (like me) love museum glass. But a beautiful frame like the ones made by Wilson Picture Framing in Mount Vernon is worth it.

“When you do get something framed with us,” says Co-Owner Jennifer Wilson, “it’ll last you your whole lifetime—and into your children and grandchildren[’s lives].”

The Wilsons know something about generational legacy. Guy Wilson started Wilson Picture Framing in 1992, and his daughters Jennifer and Julie grew up in the business. They both began working in the shop and learning the trade in their late teens/early 20s, and when Guy retired in 2021 the sisters took over. Now they own the shop together, with Julie mostly working the front counter and Jennifer building frames in the back with her partner, Kyle.

I’ve been getting artwork framed at their shop since 2020, and the Wilsons’ work is impeccable. Each frame and mat—all hand-selected with Julie’s help—complements the colors and style of the art while also protecting it for decades to come.

While Julie and Jennifer are definitely carrying on their dad’s legacy, they’re also working to put their own stamp on the business.

“We’d like to incorporate some new art, funkier framing,” says Julie. “Give people a lot of good ideas.”

Photograph courtesy of Wilson Picture Framing

The Wilson sisters are still working on the showroom, gathering vintage prints, scouring antique stores for original paintings, and sourcing new local artwork to frame, with the ultimate goal of offering affordable art that’s ready to take home right away. They’re also redoing the front of the shop to better reflect their style, and have recently started working with a new supplier, doubling their framing inventory.

And while they acknowledge the high cost of custom frames, they want you to know that there are other options.

“We also offer a service called fit-to-frames,” explains Jennifer. “Let’s say you bought something from a secondhand store and the print is great, the frame is great, but the matting on it has yellowed or has staining. We can spruce that up for you. New mat, new glass, new backing… That’s a much more affordable option for people to get something beautiful that they love at a lower cost.”

“And we are willing to try and fix your funky stuff,” Julie adds. “One of the things I imagine is different about us… is the willingness to sit and listen and discuss options.”

Photograph courtesy of Wilson Picture Framing

Listening is also how they’ve developed lasting relationships with their customers, some of whom they’ve known for decades.

“It’s natural for things to come up when you’re talking about what you’re framing or where you got it,” Jennifer says. “The things that people get framed are the things that they hold most dear. And so you get to know these people on a kind of a deep level.”

Which is part of why, as Julie says, “we are invested in every piece that comes through the door, whether it is your $10 print or an heirloom.” They understand what it means to their customers.

And they also understand how intimidating it can be to get something framed for the first time, but both Jennifer and Julie want people to know they’re happy to answer questions without pressure.

“Just come hang out,” Jennifer says. “Get some quotes…It’s not life or death.”

822 N. 4th St., Mount Vernon, 360.336.2139, facebook.com/wilsonframing