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Our History

The Frames Unlimited story begins in 1971 at a Grand Rapids, Michigan variety store owned by Dorothy Zimdar. As big box stores slowly moved into town, Dorothy began to notice a shift in the marketplace and saw that their dime store model was fading away. However, she also noticed something peculiar; that the framing selection in their stores continued to thrive. These circumstances ultimately led to the conversion of her store into the first ever Frames Unlimited frame shop. Dorothy’s retail experience, outstanding customer service, product selection, value knowledge and unshakable integrity became the businesses cornerstone.

And the timing was perfect. Preceding the Internet era, Frames Unlimited offered an unheard of custom framing experience to the delight of local residents. Just two years later in 1973, the second Frames Unlimited opened in Kalamazoo, and the rest is history.

Today, Frames Unlimited operates 14 frame stores throughout Michigan and northern Ohio, all under the leadership of Kyle Zimdar, President (Dorothy’s grandson) and Bill Zimdar CEO (Dorothy’s son). To this day, Frames Unlimited holds true to its family values encompassing a love for people, a passion for work and life, and creating a legacy of which to be proud.

“We’re excited about the future too! Many of our existing stores will be redesigned with a more contemporary look, reflecting newer trends. With so many possibilities on the horizon, one thing is for certain; the same high-quality work and passion will stay true as old relationships grow and new ones are forged. Over many years of business, we’ve realized one absolute truth; life needs art.” -Kyle Zimdar

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Our Guarantee

If your framing isn’t exactly what you imagined, contact us and we’ll make all the necessary adjustments to guarantee you’re 100% satisfied.

We promise to:

  • Care about our relationship and your needs
  • Provide outstanding customer service
  • Provide a pleasant shopping environment
  • Provide quality products and craftsmanship
  • Act in a professional manner
  • Meet the highest standards of integrity
  • Promote and follow the Professional Picture Framers Association’s code of ethics

In the Community

Something Dorothy Zimdar established from day-one was the expectation to give back and participate in the local community. Frames Unlimited is involved in a variety of local organizations, frequently driven by the interests and passions of our very own employees.

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Our Kentwood location hosts an annual post ArtPrize show featuring 30-35 artists’ original works. We offer the official ArtPrize poster as well. In addition, we support our creative community and help promote aspiring artists by offering a consignment program to display and sell their original artworks.

ShopForTheCure

To help benefit the Greater Detroit area, we’ve teamed up with the “It’s What Matter Most” foundation to provide participating consumers a special discount. For two weeks in late October, participating retailers offer discounts to those carrying the Shop For A Cure card. All proceeds benefit The Matthew Bittker Foundation, dedicated to funding Pediatric Cancer Research.

HumaneSociety

We participate in a yearly fundraiser with the Grand Rapids Humane Society by offering a Custom Digital art print of your beloved pet. Event attendees can bid on this custom artwork. All proceeds benefit the Humane Society.

LocalFirst

As a locally owned, family operated business, Frames Unlimited is committed to promoting and involving itself in the Greater Grand Rapids community. Supporting our area’s culture and lifestyle is extremely important to us which is why we partner with Local First to help advocate for the local marketplace. We wholeheartedly believe in the Local First mission.

Noorthoek Academy Logo

Noortheok Academy is a continuing education school for adults with special needs at Grand Rapids Community College.

Education Partnerships

We partner with local schools in our communities by providing them with matboard and frame materials to up-cycle in their classrooms.

Our Partners

The Arts

Boy&GirlsClub
ChippewaWatershed
CityOfShakerHeights
LowellArts
MichiganWaterColor

Healthcare

ALSAssociation
AmericanHeartAssociation
AngelaHospice
CLCNetwork
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EtonAcademy
HARCCenter
JDRF
MarchOfDimes
NewHorizonsRehab
TheArc
WashtenawAssociation