Modern Memory Design vs Framebridge
An honest side-by-side comparison of a local NJ custom frame shop and the biggest name in online framing — so you can pick the right fit for your art.
Framebridge is a well-run company and helped popularize online custom framing. If you live far from a frame shop and want a curated, simple experience, they're a legitimate option. But if you're in New Jersey, Bergen County, or the NYC metro — or you want more frame choices, hands-on craftsmanship, and a real person checking your art — Modern Memory Design is built for you. Here's the honest breakdown.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Modern Memory Design | Framebridge |
|---|---|---|
| Business model | Local frame shop + nationwide online store — frames built in-house in Hasbrouck Heights, NJ | Online-first mail-in framing with select retail locations |
| Frame selection | Hundreds of mouldings from suppliers like Larson-Juhl, Decor, and Omega — plus thousands of ready-made sizes online | A curated set of roughly 100 house styles |
| In-person consultation | Yes — bring your art in, see corner samples against it, get expert advice (Tue–Fri 11–6, Sat 10–3) | Only in cities with a Framebridge retail store |
| Oversized & specialty items | Large-format, shadowboxes, jerseys, canvas floaters, conservation framing — few size limits | Size caps apply; very large or unusual pieces may not be accepted |
| Shipping your art | Local drop-off means no risk of mailing originals; online orders ship insured | Mail-in for physical art (prepaid packaging provided) |
| Who builds your frame | The same craftsmen you can talk to on the phone: 201-421-4060 | Centralized production facilities |
Where Framebridge Is a Good Fit
Honest credit: Framebridge's upload-a-photo flow is slick, their flat pricing is easy to understand, and their curated styles keep decisions simple. If you're framing a single digital photo and don't live near a good frame shop, they'll do a fine job.
Where Modern Memory Design Wins
- Selection: We're not limited to a house line. Browse custom picture frames online, black frames, white frames, and large wall frames in virtually any size.
- No mailing originals: Diplomas, heirloom photos, and original art never leave your hands until you hand them to us in person.
- Specialty work: Jersey framing, shadowboxes, custom-cut mats, and conservation-grade materials.
- Real accountability: One shop, one team, one phone number. If anything isn't perfect, we fix it at the counter.
Popular Alternatives to Framebridge Frames
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Modern Memory Design cheaper than Framebridge?
For many common sizes, yes — especially ready-made and standard-size frames, since we build in-house without a national marketing overhead. For full custom work, pricing depends on moulding, glazing, and matting; bring your piece in or call 201-421-4060 for an exact quote.
Can Modern Memory Design frame items Framebridge won't accept?
Usually. We regularly frame oversized art, sports jerseys, shadowbox memorabilia, canvases, and delicate originals that exceed typical mail-in size limits.
Do I have to visit the store, or can I order online?
Both. Our Hasbrouck Heights, NJ studio serves Bergen County and the NYC metro in person, and ModernMemoryDesign.com ships frames nationwide.
How fast is turnaround?
Most local custom jobs finish in about a week, and rush service is often possible because everything is built on-site — nothing is mailed to a distant facility.
Try the Local Alternative to Framebridge
Modern Memory Design · 213 Boulevard, Hasbrouck Heights, NJ 07604 · 201-421-4060
Shop Custom Frames