Lisa Pedersen Loves What She Does, and It Shows in Her Work!

I became owner of the Gallery & Frame Shop on April 1, 1988. It certainly doesn't seem like it's been that long ago.

I have had the privilege of framing many interesting things over the years: historical items such as pieces of the Berlin Wall; a fragment of tile from Italy dated from 49 AD; family heirlooms from war memorabilia to biscuit making kitchen implements; and everything in between.

Shadow boxes are my specialty and my favorite. I love the challenge of putting three-dimensional objects into basically a two-dimensional display, and figuring out how to attach the items so they stay put.

I try to keep everything intact and able to be removed should they want it out of the frame. If it is to be reused, like a Christening gown for example, it then can be put back into the frame.

I also frame all sorts of needlework and stretch canvas.

Whatever I'm framing, I attempt to match the feel of the piece to the frame. Old photos and documents look better in old-looking frames. Often the design of the frame will reflect an element of the artwork and the frame becomes an extension of the art.

I try to make each piece unique. Some customers start our framing conversation with "I don't know if this is worth framing...." And my answer is always, "If it means something to you or makes you happy, it's worth framing, and framing right."

I'm fine with reusing customers' frame or glass. If it works with the artwork then by all means, let's use it.

I like saving my customers money. I also enjoy explaining why I'm choosing a specific frame or certain colors of matting so my customer understands why I do what I do. It's not just an arbitrary process. There IS a method to my madness!

I really do enjoy my work. I get to play for a living. The best part is when I show a customer the finished piece, and they say that it is so much better than they had imagined it. That makes it all worthwhile.

"I'm glad I get the opportunity to meet so many different people and help them beautify their space with something that makes them happy. I love my customers and am truly grateful for their trust in me."

The Gallery & Frame Shop is located in Lake Wales' historic district at 249 E. Stuart Ave. Hours of operation are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m .; Wednesday and Saturday 9:30 a.m. to noon. We are closed Saturdays during the summer months. Phone 863-676-2821, or visit us online at https://thegalleryandframeshop.com/.