JACKSON, MI -- For Wendy Clifton, A Frame Above has always been about the Jackson community.
Clifton and her husband Terry opened their custom framing store and boutique in 2002 after Wendy wanted to start her own framing business. Now after 18 years, the couple has decided to retire and close their store on 180 W. Michigan Ave. Its last day is Monday, Aug. 31.
She had planned to retire after the Christmas season and host the store closing sale in January, but interest in the storefront changed her mind, Clifton said.
“The owner of the building came and told my husband that somebody wanted the spot,” Clifton said in an interview. “We could stay if we wanted, but we said, ‘Why not do it now?’ And because I’m almost 70 and he’s almost 72, we thought it was a perfect time.”
Clifton began custom framing 35 years ago after a career as a para-professional in schools, she said. Her business first opened the In Stitches store on Kibby Road before outgrowing the space. It switched spots multiple times before settling on the Michigan Avenue location.
The framing business has become a community staple like Clifton. The store has framed Michael Phelps’ Speedos as well as autographs of Amelia Earhart and Mother Teresa for clients, according to the Jackson Citizen Patriot archives. A Jackson native and Northwest High School alumna, Clifton has been active in local business and community groups, including as a member of the Downtown Development Authority and the Chamber of Commerce.
“Some people I’ve custom-framed for 35 years,” Clifton said. “I’ve watched families grow up. I’ve framed for some of the big paths in their family. You build a relationship. That’s the thing that I think I am most excited about is that we built a relationship, and I thank God for it. I thank God that He had a hand in what we’re doing.”
Community members have brought cards and stopped by to say thank you to the owners -- a gesture that has quickly become Clifton’s favorite memory of the store.
“This is the part that’s hard,” she said choking up. “Thank you for supporting us for 18 years. Without our community, without our customers, there is no way obviously we wouldn’t be here. Jackson is one of the coolest places to be. Some people may not think so, but I’m telling you, Jackson is one of the coolest places to be. It’s amazing what goes on in our community.”
The Cliftons plan on staying in Jackson during their retirement, but may later move to live with family in Kalamazoo. The custom framing business, however, may stay in town, too: Clifton said there are two interested business people who want to continue the custom framing business in Jackson or surrounding communities.
A Frame Above and 180 Chic Boutique will be open on remaining weekdays from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday, Aug. 29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. No additional custom framing orders will be taken. The clearance sale for boutique items will be 75% off.
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