Racheal Morgan originally hails from Orange County in southern California and often drove down the coast to Redondo Beach on Saturday mornings to play beach volleyball.

She would soon take her hands and an eye for creativity in the volleyball realm into the art world by framing prints in her home.

Five years ago, Morgan moved to Washington because she wanted to spread her wings and make her mark on new terrain. She and her husband took over U-Frame-It in Burien, renamed it Pacific Art Gallery and Framing and got that business thriving. Further hooked on their craft, Morgan branched out and became the owner of Cascade Frames on Mercer Island at the end of summer 2020. The shop has been in business on the Island for more than 25 years and was previously owned by Dan Reiner.

“We love art. We love people. We love creating and designing and making memories with artwork. It brings beautiful people together, and that’s what the community needs right now more than ever: art, positivity, community, neighborhood love — all that good stuff,” said Morgan.

The Sammamish resident said that Mercer Islanders are pleased with Cascade Frames’ vast selection of custom picture frame moulding and matting options, and the staff can also custom design projects.

Cascade Frames offers a vast selection of items at its Mercer Island shop. Andy Nystrom/ Reporter

Picture framing is like a piece of art in itself, said Morgan, who takes pride in her job of working closely with customers to produce a stellar design.

She’s as hands on and passionate as they come, too, as she cuts the glass and mats, works the counter, handles the ordering and more.

“We’re growing, we’re staying busy,” said Morgan, noting that they plan to remodel after the first of the year. They’re upgrading their equipment and have a new mat cutter from Italy.

When the first COVID-19 lockdown hit, Cascade Frames began showcasing its artwork on its social media platforms and more people were drawn to the shop. They do business locally and nationwide, with customers sending them artwork to be framed.

Morgan and her husband began their art trek by collecting prints at art shows and concerts. When they appreciated something an artist unleashed into the world, they often searched for more of that artist’s offerings.

Soon the duo decided to take their love for framing and make it a profession.

“We found an opportunity where we can grow and be creative and flourish in that,” Morgan said. “We just always have loved art and framed artwork, and we’re like, ‘Let’s do this ourselves.’”

Cascade Frames is located at 3049 78th Ave SE, Mercer Island. For information, call (206) 230-9318.