The following story appeared in the Park Labrea News and Beverly Press 70th Anniversary issue, published April 21. To view the entire issue, click here.

A photograph of your grandfather taken in 1900 is gathering dust in a box in the attic. A cheerleading sweater from the 1980s was your prized memory from high school and you want to preserve it. An estate sale painting is in need of a good cleaning and a new frame. Who can bring that special heirloom back to life?

(photo by Edwin Folven)

Allan Jeffries Marion, owner of Allan Jeffries Framing, started his business in the late 1970s in his apartment at Sweetzer and First Avenue.

Marion followed in his family’s footsteps. His father manufactured pre-made frames and his mother operated Discount Frames, a chain of framing shops in the San Fernando Valley.

Marion took his love for framing and combined it with a philosophy of treating each piece like a valuable artwork rather than framing in a factory environment. He said customers deserve to have their important documents, art pieces and collectibles framed in a design that best suits each piece. To accomplish that, he employs people who are passionate about the craft.

“I like the public and have always been interested in working with people. For me, that’s what makes it special. I started doing framing out of my garage. It started out as a way to make a living but it turned into something bigger than that,” Marion said. “Now, it’s like a family. It’s about supporting the people who work for you and supporting your community.”

Marion opened his store at 8301 W. Third St. in 1985. He has 13 employees; most have worked at the shop for 15 years or more. He said treating his employees well is key, which is why he offers health insurance and pays them well above minimum wage. Having dedicated employees who enjoy what they are doing has been rewarding, Marion added. The philosophy has been a success, as the shop has been thriving for three decades.

“I feel very fortunate. I feel there is an obligation and a connection to the neighborhood and the people who work here. My business lasted through four recessions. I think there should be a give and take with the community,” Marion said.

He gives to the community by donating to places like the Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust, as well as local schools and temples. Marion frames artwork and photographs for them.

“If I had to guess, I give about $50,000 a year in materials and labor to these organizations,” he added. “They come to me and I can’t remember one I said no to. I really love when people feel strongly about something. The only thing I will not contribute to are political organizations. I don’t do that because I’d rather put my time and effort into schools and churches and organizations feeding the homeless. I think there’s an obligation.”

Marion said he frames just about anything, including wedding dresses, jerseys, sports collectibles and baseballs.