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Bizwatch: Mount-N-Frame, picture framing in Vail

Special to the DailyLinda Osterberg has owned Mount-N-Frame since 1993. The business is located in the Vail Professional Building on South Frontage Road
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Business name: Mount-N-Frame.

Location: Vail Professional Building, 953 S Frontage Road W #110.

Date opened: 1977-ish.



Owner since 1984: Linda Osterberg.

Contact info: E-mail mtnframe@vail.net, or call 970-476-4172.

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What goods or services do you provide? We are a full-service picture frame shop providing everything from custom framing to cutting a simple mat for a do-it -yourselfer. We stock 10 to 15 moldings for the jobs that just can’t wait, ready-made frames, and precut mats as well a many glass options. It is also possible to custom wrap mats in sumptuous fabrics and order handmade frames that are truly customized for your art. We sell posters, photographs and photo frames.

What’s new or exciting at your place? A new idea! We are hosting an art swap Dec. 2. The concept was hatched during dinner with friends. The discussion turned, as it does so often these days, to the fact that none of us have extra money to spend. Someone was hosting a clothing swap, and – bingo! – the light went off – why not host an art swap?

Simply come to the shop Dec. 2 between 5 and 7 p.m. with something you are willing to exchange for something new. I have also invited several local artists to hang their art during the swap. Their art will be for sale directly from the artists so it is a meet and greet as well. Wine, cheese and local art – what better way to spend a Wednesday evening?

What strategy do you use to differentiate your business from your competition? First and foremost we believe that the customer comes first. We do our best to accommodate whatever needs the client has. That said, our selection and design skills, years of experience, and love of what we do help set us apart.

What philosophy do you follow in dealing with your customers? What can your customers expect from you? If you know me, you know that I cannot tell a lie with a straight face. There are times I wish I could, there are times when the client’s taste may be a bit, well, “off” – and usually leaning towards the “expensive is better” philosophy.

I will always help a client find a design I think you can live with for the long term even if it means that you spend less money!

Tell us a little about your background, education and experience: I moved to Vail in the fall of 1978 with a degree in biochemistry. That winter I drove ’round and ’round on the in-town bus route. It was a fantastic way to spend my “freshman year” in Vail and make friends.

Then I took a job at the water and sewer plant testing water samples for a year. What does any of this have to do with picture framing? Nothing! I wanted more flexibility in my schedule so I took a job at Mount-N-Frame when David Belson owned it. I bought the business in 1984 and I have been a Certified Picture Framer since 1993.

What is the most humorous thing that has happened at your business since you opened? During one of those mad Christmas rushes, we had a client who just had to have their art framed in time for a dinner party. We were only too happy to oblige. Kathy was helping the gentleman try to fit his framing in his Suburban. The next thing I know she is running out of the shop with a roll of duct tape. He insisted we tape the art to the roof of his car so he could get the art home in time for his party! Thankfully his home was close, and between the duct tape and Kathy hanging out of the car holding the frame down, the art was successfully and safely delivered!


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