1970's: Our baby step into the world of the graphic arts industry was a very small photolettering shop (and when I say small, I mean small). Our first office was not much larger than a broom closet! We had major competition, but quickly made a name for ourselves with our determination to become the best. After listening to our clients beg us to expand into the typesetting arena, we decided — "Oh well, it can't be too difficult!" If we only knew in advance how many all-nighters (annual reports), ruined eyesight (4 point type is a killer), and memory-loss (recognizing hundreds of typefaces), maybe we would have reconsidered. Through the years, we evolved from paper tape (lots of fun reading the holes), to dedicated front-end equipment, to our Mac and PC platform equipment of today.

1980's: Having added camera equipment (again, through urging from our clients), we decided to produce our answer to presstype or INTs. Our Alpha Color system was born and little did we realize that almost 30 years later, we would still be providing museums and galleries all over the country with this product (some things are just too good to change). Desktop publishing (80 meg hard drive will last forever — hah!) entered the world of Alpha. In the late 80's, we moved to 1305 St. Paul Street to (hopefully) have enough space to accommodate our equipment!

1990's: Client needs are changing on a daily basis. More new equipment comes into Alpha — high quality laser printers, laminator, large format printers, binding equipment, and of course the unending upgrades to computers and software. New services evolved from the new equipment - heat transfers for T-shirts, passport photos, black and white monster prints, and more.

2000: We're are still touting the fact that we are solely owned by a woman and have fought some long, hard battles to keep our name, and have the best, most loyal, long-time employees and clients in the area! We're still listening to you and adding more equipment and services.

2007 to Today: In October 2007, my husband (Alpha's attorney for many years as well) called and said there was an opportunity to buy an experienced and great print and graphic design shop in Baltimore. He knew that I had a love of design (I dabbled in art school many years ago) coupled with a business degree and background working at the General Assembly in Annapolis; he believed it would be a terrific fit. Recognizing a challenging but positive opportunity when presented, I met with Marcia and made an offer later that day. She accepted with glee knowing it would remain woman owned and that I would love and care for Alpha as much as she had all those years. Two weeks later, I had a fantastic business, dedicated clients, and a loyal and talented staff who continue to help me grow Alpha’s vision and reach.
I love what I do and who I get to meet everyday. My clients and employees are the most important things to me and I intend to keep it that way. Here's looking toward Alpha’s continued positive growth and several more decades with Alpha!!

Your Friends at Alpha