Interview with Raye Harris, owner
How did you get involved in this business?
My daughter took me on a mother-daughter date to a paint-and-sip art studio. I loved it. Six months later, we were starting our own. It’s been three years and we love it, and the guests love the concept of painting on canvas and sipping cocktails while listening to cool and groovy music during a fun night out with friends.
What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
We are in The Orchard Town Center, just off Interstate 25 and 144th Avenue — so easy to find. We use professional artist-grade paints, not the cheap stuff. All of our artists are professionals, most with art degrees. Our guests sit on padded stools, not wood … better for the butts. We have a great variety of wine, beer and non-alcoholic beverages. We put the fun in paint-and-sip. Our guests actually get up and dance during dance-offs and sing during sing-offs. We’re told we have the best paints and art around, and that there’s so much more fun to be had during a night out at Whimsy. (See more on the front page of our website.)
What do you like best about your line of work?
We’re providing an atmosphere of fun, yet also introducing the concept of art and painting with acrylics. Many people find that they have an inherent talent that they didn’t know existed. Also, we love to watch them step out of their box and begin creating their own artwork … with just a little inspiration from us. We’re so proud of our painters. They can explore something new without the the outlay of hundreds of dollars of supplies and materials … and get a little sipping in, too.
What is your business’ biggest challenge?
Paperwork. No joke.
Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
We offer about 10 painting classes each week and it really is easy … the instructor will walk them through each step and they really will leave with their very own masterpiece they created. And, most of all, no previous art experience is necessary. Oh, and the dog, Miss Ewok, is our mascot. She’s there a lot. (She looks like Yoda.) Also, they can always paint what they like and use the color palette of their choice and we offer many different-sized canvases — just ask. We’re really nice and welcoming to everyone. (You have to be nice to work at Whimsy and treat everyone as if they’re your new best friend, and we throw a party every night!)
Business: Whimsy Paint and Sip Art Studio
Address: 14676 Delaware St., Unit 200, Westminster (at The Orchard Town Center)
Hours: Hours vary; check the website calendar
Founded: 2010
Contact: 303-665-7026;
Employees: 8
To suggest a business for us to profile, e-mail sshultz@denverpost.com.
