Wow, just when I promised I wouldn't be so far between on my posts, I was reminded today while signing up for a "Biggest Loser" blog that I hadn't updated in a very, very, very long time. So, here's the scoop of what was, what is and what will be...
Spring Break was the bomb! I was packed for the better part of nearly three weeks with new folks, some folks I haven't seen since last year, and some visiting folks. All in all it was a very good week for the studio and a very active week for me.
Summer Art Class sign ups are in full swing. I've heard quite a few scout groups, neighborhood groups and sports affiliated groups talk about signing up their kids for a few weeks during the summer, but haven't seen the groups in the shop. Please remember that I need plenty of time to order sufficient supplies for our wonderful projects. Today there is space in all weeks, but I expect by mid-May some weeks will be booked full. So, remember to stop by and drop off your registrations and deposits so your home artists won't miss out on all the fun. (Artist of the Week project will include a Jackson Pollack style project that includes flinging -- yes, flinging -- paints onto canvas in the garage studio...that's going to be SO fun!)
Ladies Nights/Diva Nights have been picking up since the weather's gotten better and it stays light out a bit longer. We have a beautiful project scheduled this evening -- and I had to work very hard for it since the item is no longer being made by the supplier -- it's a set of rain boots in the shape of a vase for an April Showers themed Mother's Day project. The cost of the project is $35 -- we hope to see you there this evening. Remember it's BYOB from 7-10pm.
Clearspring Elementary PTA is holding a fundraiser at FireWorks Art Cafe from May 11th through May 15th. Come into the studio and let us know you're with Clearspring Elementary PTA and we'll donate 10% of your sales (minus tax of course) to the PTA. Check our website for hours during the week. It would be a great time to do a project for Father's Day -- we all know that the best gift is something made from the heart. Flyers will be distributed in the coming week at Clearspring. (If you would like to do something similar for your non-profit group, please call and speak to Laurie at the studio.)
May 1, 2009 we will be celebrating our first anniversary in business. Seems like it was just the day before yesterday when I officially opened the doors and welcomed my first customers. Then, come to think of it, was when an accident killed all the power in Damascus and my painters created in the dark. Thankfully we have that huge front window and plenty of natural light coming in. The painters that day were Ashley, her sister Ava and a friend, then Nancy and her daughter Shelby -- and they remain customers today. Many thanks to them for starting my year off so wonderfully.
New products -- beads, pendants and more. We have a new line if items in our add-on bins that includes various pendant shapes and beads that can be used for necklaces, bracelets or as portrait pieces hung over large vases. Prices range from $3.00 - $5.00 each and if you ask, I can show you how to make a very inexpensive neck rope to hang your custom pieces from.
Memorialize the year. Don't forget about FireWorks Art Cafe when it comes time to make class gifts for teachers, daycare providers, group leaders, classroom mom, coaches, etc. We have a huge selection of XL platters with plenty of ideas to meet your budget. OR, our gift certificates make wonderful presents too -- and painting your own pottery is fun!
The studio will be closed on April 26th and 27th while I attend the Mayco Creativity Camp for new ideas and techniques from one of my favorite suppliers, two of my favorite artists and it's close by in Baltimore which means minimal travel expenses for me. It will take about a week after I attend camp to get everything fired and out for display, but if the camp this year is like last year -- it will be well worth the wait.
Until next time -- don't forget to visit FireWorks Art Cafe, where getting fired is fun!
