Today, I am looking back at the past 45 years with a sense of nostalgia and gratitude. It’s almost hard to believe that the Hall of Frames has been around for 45 years!
We are so fortunate to not only have a family-operated business for three generations but also to have valued employees that have stayed with us for so many years and have become extended family.
We have grown exponentially from where we started—as a business and as a family—but we will never forget the grassroots dedication of my father, Ben Kogan. Our company was born in June of 1975 when my parents decided to open a centrally-located framing store in Phoenix, Arizona. This first location was a humble shop, long and narrow in size; and the hundreds of frames lining the aisles ultimately inspired our store’s name – Hall of Frames.
With the help of my brother Ron and me, our parents formulated a business model of providing quality products, helpful and creative customer service, and a wide selection of the industry’s top selections to cater to any customer’s taste and budget. It was this very tradition and philosophy that helped build the successful framework that is still carried out today.
It’s no secret that the art and framing industry has changed dramatically over the last few decades, and I have to say that we have seen our share of ups and downs over the years. We’ve seen and experienced the excess and over-expansion of big box stores, the belt-tightening and uncertainty of the recession, and the rise of Amazon and online industry. And although we may be a small company, we’re still here and watching my sons grow into their ownership of this company… seeing them take charge and help shape the change that has not only kept us alive but has also helped us grow and thrive, is one of the most rewarding parts of our business.
But let’s be honest, Hall of Frames wouldn’t be who we are today if it wasn’t for our amazing clients who continually bring us challenging, beautiful, priceless, and fun things to frame. I have enjoyed getting to know our customers, their families, and having the opportunity to serve our local communities. I love knowing that the custom frames our talented craftsmen meticulously build will hang in someone’s home for many years to come.
It feels ironic that on our 45th anniversary, we face these unprecedented worldwide circumstances; but we’re here and ready to weather the storm with you. Whatever you need from us, we will be ready to help in any way we can. Although the flow of daily life may temporarily be altered, our commitment to you our customers will not alter. Working with you and framing your precious memories and keepsakes has become my family’s life’s work, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.