Folks who have never ventured inside Hang Ups, located on St. Andrew Street in the heart of downtown Brockville, haven't yet discovered the treasures that await them.

But Janet Binkle's longtime customers know they don't have to travel far to find that special gift for themselves or someone special; they'll find it at Hang Ups.

Framing is the foundation of Janet's business. But Janet and her staff also offer so much more in the way of distinctive home decor items.

"This is something of a hidden gem," Janet says.  "our customers know we're here, and they let other people know.  We have a certain following, and they love coming here and poking about to see what we have.  But someone who doesn't need to have framing done might be afraid to step through the door.  Lots of people who are wandering by will pop their heads in, and they're so surprised at what they find."

Many of these items  - both framing and gifts- are reasonably priced.  "our framing isn't expensive; it just looks that way," Janet notes.

Janet aims to sell home decor pieces and gifts, even jewellery, that are strikingly different.  "Everything that we carry, we absolutely love to sell.  For anyone who comes through the door, we're honestly selling a product we believe in, whether it's the framing or what we sell out front."

Janet and her staff - Laurie, Averill and Anne - each have their own specialties. Janet and Laurie both majored in fine arts at the University of Guelph.  Averill has many years' experience in framing, while Anne is a clothing designer.  They all know the importance of colour, design, and precise measurements.

Add to that the friendly, personal touch they bring to every project, and it's easy to see why they maintain a special kinship with their customers.  "I have an amazing staff," Janet says.  "We pretty well know by name everyone who walks through the door.  We enjoy chatting with people."

Framing is an important part of home decor; it's part of what people use to personalize their living spaces.  Customers trust Hang Ups to frame a piece the way they want, and at a price that fits within their budget.  "We have people who bring in their work, drop it off and say, 'You know what to do.'  That's how our relationship has grown over the years."