50% off soapbox

Okay, here goes. I try to stay civil as well as factual when talking about most anything and figure I can manage to do the same here, but my ire gets pretty worked up when falsehoods are used to promote well... anything.

The big box craft stores have a habit of spending big advertising dollars to let you the customer know about their fantastic 40-60% off custom framing sales. Just think of how much cheaper that is than the standard local frame shop. How nice of them to care about you so much they are willing to cut their prices this deeply. I mean that's huge, I couldn't cut my prices(week after week) by that much and stay in business. I guess it's because they are so large they can buy in bulk quantities and pass these savings along to you...think again.

True, they offer (most always) a massive discount on this service, and that invariably leads one to believe they are getting a deal over what they would pay at the mom and pop's frame shop. The truth of the matter is that after these discounts, most local shops (you know the ones where the folks donate to your local schools, churches, etc; the ones who are highly trained professionals constantly reeducating themselves as to how to properly handle your valuables) wind up being within 10%, usually lower. Yes, that's after their "generous" discount. If someone is in our shop getting a quote, and decide to check out the big boxes (because everybody knows how expensive local shops are), we are sure to mention to them to wait until the big sale so they can get a quote at 50% off. They almost always come back, most of the time they come back angry at the craft store for luring them in with the old bait and switch.

Let's face it, custom framing is not inexpensive. It is a truly hands on product from the time we help you choose your matting and framing to the time we hand over your finished little bundle of love. You will always be able to find a cheaper price, but with that usually comes a cheaper product.

Just remember, the next time you want something near and dear framed, try the local guy. If you try us, I can guarantee not to discount my quality or service, and you'll probably get a better price.

PS. It'll also help Santa be able to find his way to my kids this year if you know what I mean.

Visit us at www.hamptonhouse.net for more info.