Zagoren Collective

Introduce your business and what you do there.

I’m the CEO and founder of Eli Wilner & Co. We’re the leading retailer for antique picture framing.

In addition, we restore other peoples’ antique frames and make exquisite replicas of my antique frame collection. We have projects in the White House and framed the largest painting at the MET.

What challenge were you trying to address with Zagoren Collective?

We’ve worked with Glenn (CEO & Creative Director) for over ten years. We’re now tackling strategic situations regarding COVID-19 and the lack of visitors. We’re looking into how to reach them through advertising and media.

What was the scope of their involvement?

We’re currently engaging with museums by offering free frame restoration contests. That is to bring attention to our firm, and it’s also a good time to give back to the community. Glenn also initiated a program where I’m working with a magazine. Through that, I’m producing several frames and gifting them to major advertisers. I’m getting to know influential people in different industries.

We’ve also begun the replication process while working with them. Glenn put together brochures for that, giving us another line of business.

Glenn designed my website, created videos, and designed my logo and packaging. He’s worked with us on various campaigns, including a cartoon program and managing my social media.

Our process involves me giving him an idea or things that I like. Glenn usually shows me three examples, and each of them is better than my idea. Sometimes, we run all three ideas over time.

What is the team composition?

I primarily work with Glenn.

How did you come to work with Zagoren Collective?

I met Glenn through a mutual friend who recommended him. Glenn had done a lot of work for him. The friendship I had with Glenn socially led to a working relationship.

How much have you invested with them?

To date, I believe we’ve spent close to $900,000 with them.

What is the status of this engagement?

We started working together in 2007.

What evidence can you share that demonstrates the impact of the engagement?

There’s nothing they can’t do. His efforts have brought me a 10x return. People have said that I have the best marketing they’ve ever seen.

Our current project with different museums has been incredibly successful. Museums have recommended us to their clients or members. The creative work he’s completed has garnered a lot of attention for our business.

It’s the easiest working relationship I’ve had. Glenn also does things at no extra cost for me. One time, he spoke at a CEO club that I’m part of. I’m the only framer that advertises in a specific magazine because of his relationship with the editor.

How did Zagoren Collective perform from a project management standpoint?

We’re in touch almost daily through phone calls, text messages, and email. I like to be involved.

Pre-pandemic, Glenn was already working with the remote ability. Our deadlines depend on how quickly I want something done and it’s delivered.

What did you find most impressive about them?

With other companies I’ve worked with, they usually have one idea and not a lot of creativity, despite all of their promises. Glenn is always the opposite. He is a soft sell to me but can easily sell my products to others. I’ve introduced him to a lot of people, and they all love him.

Are there any areas they could improve?

No, Glenn goes beyond the call.

Do you have any advice for potential customers?

Listen and trust what he suggests. If someone approaches Glenn, listen to him and give him whatever money you have in your pocket. You’ll receive a monstrous return.