Laura Ashby, and her team at Painting Parties, work to help customers discover their artistic sides in a non-storefront setting.
Ashby, was a finance manager for MBNA/Bank of America for many years but economic and management changes led her to look at other options.
“Paint and Sip” events are popular across the country with many franchise businesses popping up in major cities. Taking advantage of this trend puts Painting Parties in the right place at the right time, she said.
“I love it. This is what I do now; I love painting, instructing, managing and being an independent business owner…it’s all good. This is something that brings joy to everyone involved. That’s worth pursuing,” Ashby said.
Painting Parties takes the show on-the-road via partnership with restaurants and wineries across Delaware and parts of Maryland and Pennsylvania. Customers have their favorite food and beverage while a local artist guides them step-by-step through the creation of their personal artwork.
Guests celebrate everything from a ‘Girls’ Night Out’ to a corporate team building event or bridal shower, she said.
In addition to the selection of venues available, Painting Parties provides choices such as painting on wine glasses or canvas, color selection and canvas size. Since the June launch, Painting Parties has hosted 18 events – the largest at the Chesapeake Inn in Chesapeake City, Md. with 47 guests. Laura is currently leading parties with artist and Creative Director, Jarred Fisher.
A native of the Wilmington area, Jarred is currently enrolled in the full-time professional program at Nelson Shank’s Studio Incamminati, in Philadelphia. In 2007, he graduated from Delaware College of Art and Design in Wilmington with a degree in Fine Art.
Christy Smith, Lauri Vent and Stephanie Przbylek are also members of the team. The come with a love of art, teaching and socializing support marketing efforts and contribute to the portfolio of painting selections and instruction, Ashby said.
