Alexander Clawson

together. So, if you’ve never custom framed before, it’s really not that scary. We are locally owned, not a franchise, and you do speak with the owner when we’re open.

As you think about your business, what are you most proud of? I am proud of the fact that Laura’s Framing has been open since Nov. 8, 1991. My dad believed in me, and we were business partners in opening up my own shop. I have made many friends through framing, and keep them as friends for many years.

What is the one piece of advice that most changed your life? One piece of advice I really appreciated was that I know my pricing is fair, and I don’t have to rely on coupons to get business. I don’t like to haggle over my pricing. I show the prices ahead of time, and the customer can decide right then to proceed or not. Sometimes I recommend that they take the samples home to check the colors with the lighting in their home. If the total is too expensive, we look at other options for frames, (usually the most expensive part of the framing package). More times than not, they choose the original design.

The world would be a better place if… ? We listen more to others and talk less.

How did you get started in this career? When I was younger and seeking employment, my father told me that the painting company next to his office was hiring. It was a painting and wallpaper hanging company. I think I worked for them for a year or so and have now been in the painting industry for over 27 years. I started Painting Services Plus two years ago with my best friend Eric Langenderfer.

What is your most requested item or service? Painting! Sorry, I couldn’t help myself. We have been getting a lot of calls for kitchen cabinet painting and wallpaper removal. Both of these services we do quite well. We also get a lot of calls for interior and exterior house painting.

How do you spend your time when you’re not working? I like to spend time with my girlfriend Anna and our three dogs Betty, Dolly and Chinny. I also like to fish; it relieves some of my stress and I am really looking forward to going out more this year if possible.

What is one small change people can make to their home that would create a big impact? Painting it, of course. Any home can be quickly updated with a great paint job. Transform something old into something new with the stroke of a brush.

What’s one thing people should know about your business? Painting Services Plus has a full service spray and refinishing shop. We can custom stain and paint many things including doors, windows, trim molding, handrails and furniture. We can paint just about anything, the list is endless.

As you think about your business, what are you most proud of? I am most proud of the fact that every day I continue to strive to do better, to be better. Not just for myself but also for my customers and employees. It isn’t easy being a small business owner. It’s grueling and time consuming, stressful and hectic but I love it. I’m proud to be creating something from scratch and proud to be doing it well.

Where do you see your business in 5 years? We are now going into our third year, and at five years I would really just like to see us thriving and growing, as we are now. We love what we do.

What is the one piece of advice that most changed your life? “Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.” - Thomas Edison

What is your most requested item or service? Upgrading a space in the house from the original design (generally wire) to a custom storage solution that fits their exact needs.

What is one small change people can make to their garden/home that would create a big impact?

Naturally, we are a little biased – but adding storage systems can transform your life. Intentionally designed closets and storage allow every home to function at its best capacity, and seem to bring about a more peaceful environment.

What garden/home modifications are becoming increasingly popular for seniors? Garage cabinetry and epoxy garage floors. The cabinets allow for main-floor storage that doesn’t require carrying large items up or down stairs, and the floors are easier to clean and maintain than concrete, help to minimize slip risks and freshen up the space.

What’s one thing people should know about your business?

We are a small, family-owned and tight-knit company. We love our customers and work hard to ensure that each one is left with a space that exceeds their expectations.

As you think about your business, what are you most proud of?

Being a female-run company in the building/construction industry. The construction community in Toledo is so amazing, and the women in our industry who have paved the way before us have made our jobs easier. We owe them so much and value the mentors, friends and inspiration that they provide.