Stefanie Lalor

Cranford, NJ
The Artist Framer

When Stefanie Lalor was 15, she visited a frame shop with her mother. As soon as she walked in the door, she knew it was what she wanted to do for the rest of her life. She boldly asked for a job on the spot but was turned down because of her age. Only a few weeks later, the owner of that shop reconsidered and called her when he needed help on a large project.

She fell in love with the craftsmanship of the work and has been framing ever since.
Stefanie went on to get a degree in Fine Arts and became a talented figurative painter. She opened the doors to her very own frame shop, The Artist Framer, in 1999 and says they have been busy since the day they opened. When asked how she first learned of UCEDC, she says her friend, longtime customer, and UCEDC board member Gail Driscoll had told her about UCEDC's small business services. Stefanie says that when COVID-19 hit and stores started closing, UCEDC was the first call she made. Since then, her business has grown so much that she’s moved to a new location that enables her to showcase art. Stefanie credits UCEDC with helping her fund the expansion and renovate the new space. She says Ellen McHenry, UCEDC’s Senior Director of Financial Programs, even spent an afternoon with her going over the last four years of Stefanie’s financials to help identify where she could save money when preparing to move into the new space. Stefanie explained how the move was an excellent opportunity for a fresh start.

The Artist Framer’s new home can be found at 116 North Ave W, in Cranford, NJ. It is now full of art and light, while its friendly atmosphere and iconic purple exterior remain the same. We look forward to witnessing Stefanie’s success in her beautiful new space.