So, I looking into statistics of my website to see who's been visiting, where they are visiting from, etc. and see that there are just one or two visits every week to my blogspot. Not only that, but that I haven't updated since February and it's mid-October! I believe maybe blogging isn't for me...so, if you want to know what's going on at the studio, I think your best bet is to visit our Hot Happenings page at...
http://www.fireworksartcafe.com/Home/hot-happenings
and check out any announcements on that page (we update frequently), the Adult Class tab, our Kid Class tab and our calendar.
If you can't find it there we are super great about updating our FaceBook page at...
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Damascus-MD/FireWorks-Art-Cafe/50980171621?ref=ts
And that link also updates our Twitter page at...
http://www.twitter.com/FireWorksPYOP
And if that's not enough, you can visit our website and sign up for our Monthly Newsletter - do that on any page of...
http://www.FireWorksArtCafe.com
Oh, and I almost forgot that we have a social group on called the Damascus Fired Arts and Beading Group on MeetUp.com at...
http://www.meetup.com/FireWorks/
See you somewhere in cyber space soon and hopefully at the studio too.
Friday, October 22, 2010
Friday, February 12, 2010
Love A Local Business aka www.lovealocalbusiness.com
Intuit (maker of Quick Books) is rewarding a local business with free advertising, software products and some cash. Even if you don't visit the site to put in a good word for FireWorks, your favorite local businesses could use the extra boost with the terrible weather we've been having -- it not only prevents us from earning money to cover our normal expenses, but also have to add top dollar for plowing, shoveling and salt.
And remember, for every $100 you spend with your local mom/pop shop $78 stays in your community. The big box stores get incentives in tax reductions, tax credits and more -- they get paid to be in the community -- we want to be here, no one has to pay us. Money spent at the big box stores only have about $15 make it back into the community. Please help support the businesses that support your children's sports teams, schools and organizations by nominating them at www.lovealocalbusiness.com.
Now, since I'm so proud of what customers are saying about FireWorks, I thought I'd post a few of the comments (and when the nominating is over I don't know if we'll ever be able to see them again)!
Fireworks Art Cafe
Damascus, MD (Edited to add newer posts for posterity!)
It was started with a Mom's love for her kids and a desire to work in the community. She remains both a supporter of both her kids and her community!
lynn (02.27.10) Report AbuseGreat place to go and unwind. Right off of a main road, you can just walk in and start painting. Very friendly staff.
Magenda (02.27.10) Report AbuseI just discovered, again, why I love to paint pottery! I will be spending a lot of free and not so free time painting to my hearts content!
angus63 (02.22.10) Report AbuseGreat place to make amazing, personal creations at a good price!
cheller (02.15.10) Report AbuseThe fun and family friendly environment at the Fireworks Art Cafe is awesome! We love going to spend a Sunday afternoon painting pottery together!
Dani13 (02.14.10) Report Abuseits awesome!!
chrissy (02.13.10) Report AbuseGreat atmosphere!!
Larry (02.13.10) Report AbuseHad a wonderful birthday party there for my son!! Laurie was great!!
C.C (02.13.10) Report AbuseIt's got a great selection of pottery and very family friendly
Myndi (02.13.10) Report AbuseAwsome place to go to relax and Laurie is so friendly, and really cares about her customers. As a new painter Laurie made me feel like a pro!
Cathi Watts (02.13.10) Report AbuseA great place for a Girls' Night Out or an easy place to take the kids for arts and crafts. Fun, fun, fun...
Beth (02.13.10) Report AbuseI love to go here- Laurie makes you feel like you are the best painter to walk through her doors and she is always willing to cater her business to fit the customer's needs.
Kathryn (02.12.10) Report AbuseFor me, it is a GREAT place to relax doing painting projects--and so close to home! Laurie will see to it that people are welcomed, helped, comfortable,and well taken care of!! She is a true artist--go in and catch her enthusiasm! :) NH
NH (02.11.10) Report AbuseGreat place for the kids and adults, too! Be creative!!!
Laurie (02.11.10) Report AbuseFireworks Cafe is small, but not too small; friendly but lets people have their "space"; and best of all it is a place where small parties of all descriptions can go to let their imaginations soar and creativity flow. I'm planning my next visit now!
Deb (02.11.10) Report AbuseWhat better place to have some fun indoors this winter. Kids, teens, adults, and senior all enjoy this place.
kate (02.11.10) Report AbuseIt's a great place to spend time w/the family and kids! The owner is very helpful with ideas on how to think outside of the box. You make memories there!!!
Becky (02.11.10) Report AbuseFun, creative projects, high quality finished product, reasonable prices. A great addition to our community.
Lisa (02.11.10) Report AbuseJunst a wonderful fun way to spend some time with children or friends.
Ginger (02.11.10) Report AbuseLaurie is the nicest lady, and we love the flat rate fee for pottery. She has events for children, women, and birthday parties. Great local spot, friendly and welcoming!
bowedy@gmail.com (02.11.10) Report AbuseThe studio is just wonderful. My kids love spending an afternoon painting pottery. It is wonderful for birthday parties. There are many classes I want to take too !
Meg (02.11.10) Report AbuseI recently went to Fireworks Art Cafe for a girls night out. It was a great environment to chat with the girls and do something fun. I'm not that artistic, but Lori was a great help with suggestions.
Alice (02.10.10) Report AbuseLive the dream!
Mike Mike (02.09.10) Report AbuseThis is the best place in Damascus! I love taking my children because it's a great family establishment. It is also a great place to go with friends and have a fun night out for cheap! Laurie is great and makes pottery easy for everyone!
jen (02.09.10) Report AbuseFireworks offers something for everyone!We love to paint and learn how to make or own jewelry. Laurie has a big heart and generously donates to the local schools/community. St. Martins School loves her - you should visit if you have not been here!!
Teresa (02.09.10) Report AbuseThis is a great place for the ladies to get together and catch up! Not to mention, my daughter LOVES making her own pottery! Laurie is the sweetest, kindest woman EVER! We love her and her store so much!
Casey Schuller (02.09.10) Report AbuseThere is something for every age, talent and interest. The owner takes the time to greet and work with every customer. From helping you pick your project, to techniques to even holding your baby so that you can press her painted foot onto a plate!
kbvmcrae (02.09.10) Report AbuseLaurie has created the greatest place to relax, paint and have fun with adults and the kids. My Kids just love being there. My son wants to work there when he is old enough,
michelle (02.08.10) Report AbuseI love the Firework Art Cafe and Laurie is the best.The art is soothing and I can make wonderful art items and I just love it.Its just fun being there.
Trevor and Michelle (02.08.10) Report AbuseI love Fireworks & Laurie. It’s a perfect place for people of all ages-you can connect with old friends, make new ones, & be yourself. Laurie created a warm & welcome atmosphere where you can spend hours creating perfect gifts & nourishing your soul.
Debbie (02.08.10) Report AbuseDamascus is a family town, & a wonderful place to raise children. The FireWorks Art Cafe is so welcoming & very family oriented. Owner Laurie has made it a very welcoming place for all, Adults & Children alike there is no place better!
Laura (02.08.10) Report AbuseI love hanging out with Laurie. It is fun to create cool things and socialize at the same time. My kids really like it too!
Loretta (02.08.10) Report AbuseA fun local business that not only adult can enjoy, but kids too! Laurie was very helpful when we held a fundraiser at FireWorks for my nephew, Tanner! Good luck Laurie!
Laura (02.08.10) Report AbuseIts a perfect place to sit and paint. Laurie is great and its so much fun!
Court (02.08.10) Report AbuseI know the owner and she's worked hard to provide a studio that both parents and kids love to play in!
Karen (02.08.10) Report AbuseFireworks Art Cafe is great. What better placeto find peace tha to apint pottery
Cathy (02.08.10) Report AbuseFireworks is a great place when we all just want to relax and take our time making something creative. We all have it in us to make something great. It's a nice local relaxing place to spend our free time. We love Fireworks.
GAYLA (02.07.10) Report AbuseI love this business because their was a lot of love put into it!! Very friendly and knowledgeable staff.
Myndi (02.06.10) Report AbuseSmalltown shop with loads of stuff to do, very knowledgeable staff.
jasjus (02.06.10) Report AbuseVERY personable business, family oriented and talent unlimited.
busybee527 (02.06.10) Report AbuseI opened FireWorks to become more involved in my community in a creative, constructive way. We strive to help everyone (re) discover their artistic side. Not quite 2 years old and still loving everyday.
LaurieK1964 (02.06.10) Report AbuseThis is a fun, out of the way art studio where all ages can have fun! There's pottery painting, clay, jewelry, knitting, crocheting, glass fusing -- always something new to do and a super friendly atmosphere. Plenty of room too.
LaurieK (02.06.10) Report AbuseGreat selection of everything & lots of classes in all sorts of arts! Laurie is one of the nicest people you'll ever meet & has worked hard to make Fireworks a place where young & old can have fun & learn something new!
Coleen (02.06.10) Report Abuse
And remember, for every $100 you spend with your local mom/pop shop $78 stays in your community. The big box stores get incentives in tax reductions, tax credits and more -- they get paid to be in the community -- we want to be here, no one has to pay us. Money spent at the big box stores only have about $15 make it back into the community. Please help support the businesses that support your children's sports teams, schools and organizations by nominating them at www.lovealocalbusiness.com.
Now, since I'm so proud of what customers are saying about FireWorks, I thought I'd post a few of the comments (and when the nominating is over I don't know if we'll ever be able to see them again)!
Fireworks Art Cafe
Damascus, MD (Edited to add newer posts for posterity!)
It was started with a Mom's love for her kids and a desire to work in the community. She remains both a supporter of both her kids and her community!
lynn (02.27.10) Report AbuseGreat place to go and unwind. Right off of a main road, you can just walk in and start painting. Very friendly staff.
Magenda (02.27.10) Report AbuseI just discovered, again, why I love to paint pottery! I will be spending a lot of free and not so free time painting to my hearts content!
angus63 (02.22.10) Report AbuseGreat place to make amazing, personal creations at a good price!
cheller (02.15.10) Report AbuseThe fun and family friendly environment at the Fireworks Art Cafe is awesome! We love going to spend a Sunday afternoon painting pottery together!
Dani13 (02.14.10) Report Abuseits awesome!!
chrissy (02.13.10) Report AbuseGreat atmosphere!!
Larry (02.13.10) Report AbuseHad a wonderful birthday party there for my son!! Laurie was great!!
C.C (02.13.10) Report AbuseIt's got a great selection of pottery and very family friendly
Myndi (02.13.10) Report AbuseAwsome place to go to relax and Laurie is so friendly, and really cares about her customers. As a new painter Laurie made me feel like a pro!
Cathi Watts (02.13.10) Report AbuseA great place for a Girls' Night Out or an easy place to take the kids for arts and crafts. Fun, fun, fun...
Beth (02.13.10) Report AbuseI love to go here- Laurie makes you feel like you are the best painter to walk through her doors and she is always willing to cater her business to fit the customer's needs.
Kathryn (02.12.10) Report AbuseFor me, it is a GREAT place to relax doing painting projects--and so close to home! Laurie will see to it that people are welcomed, helped, comfortable,and well taken care of!! She is a true artist--go in and catch her enthusiasm! :) NH
NH (02.11.10) Report AbuseGreat place for the kids and adults, too! Be creative!!!
Laurie (02.11.10) Report AbuseFireworks Cafe is small, but not too small; friendly but lets people have their "space"; and best of all it is a place where small parties of all descriptions can go to let their imaginations soar and creativity flow. I'm planning my next visit now!
Deb (02.11.10) Report AbuseWhat better place to have some fun indoors this winter. Kids, teens, adults, and senior all enjoy this place.
kate (02.11.10) Report AbuseIt's a great place to spend time w/the family and kids! The owner is very helpful with ideas on how to think outside of the box. You make memories there!!!
Becky (02.11.10) Report AbuseFun, creative projects, high quality finished product, reasonable prices. A great addition to our community.
Lisa (02.11.10) Report AbuseJunst a wonderful fun way to spend some time with children or friends.
Ginger (02.11.10) Report AbuseLaurie is the nicest lady, and we love the flat rate fee for pottery. She has events for children, women, and birthday parties. Great local spot, friendly and welcoming!
bowedy@gmail.com (02.11.10) Report AbuseThe studio is just wonderful. My kids love spending an afternoon painting pottery. It is wonderful for birthday parties. There are many classes I want to take too !
Meg (02.11.10) Report AbuseI recently went to Fireworks Art Cafe for a girls night out. It was a great environment to chat with the girls and do something fun. I'm not that artistic, but Lori was a great help with suggestions.
Alice (02.10.10) Report AbuseLive the dream!
Mike Mike (02.09.10) Report AbuseThis is the best place in Damascus! I love taking my children because it's a great family establishment. It is also a great place to go with friends and have a fun night out for cheap! Laurie is great and makes pottery easy for everyone!
jen (02.09.10) Report AbuseFireworks offers something for everyone!We love to paint and learn how to make or own jewelry. Laurie has a big heart and generously donates to the local schools/community. St. Martins School loves her - you should visit if you have not been here!!
Teresa (02.09.10) Report AbuseThis is a great place for the ladies to get together and catch up! Not to mention, my daughter LOVES making her own pottery! Laurie is the sweetest, kindest woman EVER! We love her and her store so much!
Casey Schuller (02.09.10) Report AbuseThere is something for every age, talent and interest. The owner takes the time to greet and work with every customer. From helping you pick your project, to techniques to even holding your baby so that you can press her painted foot onto a plate!
kbvmcrae (02.09.10) Report AbuseLaurie has created the greatest place to relax, paint and have fun with adults and the kids. My Kids just love being there. My son wants to work there when he is old enough,
michelle (02.08.10) Report AbuseI love the Firework Art Cafe and Laurie is the best.The art is soothing and I can make wonderful art items and I just love it.Its just fun being there.
Trevor and Michelle (02.08.10) Report AbuseI love Fireworks & Laurie. It’s a perfect place for people of all ages-you can connect with old friends, make new ones, & be yourself. Laurie created a warm & welcome atmosphere where you can spend hours creating perfect gifts & nourishing your soul.
Debbie (02.08.10) Report AbuseDamascus is a family town, & a wonderful place to raise children. The FireWorks Art Cafe is so welcoming & very family oriented. Owner Laurie has made it a very welcoming place for all, Adults & Children alike there is no place better!
Laura (02.08.10) Report AbuseI love hanging out with Laurie. It is fun to create cool things and socialize at the same time. My kids really like it too!
Loretta (02.08.10) Report AbuseA fun local business that not only adult can enjoy, but kids too! Laurie was very helpful when we held a fundraiser at FireWorks for my nephew, Tanner! Good luck Laurie!
Laura (02.08.10) Report AbuseIts a perfect place to sit and paint. Laurie is great and its so much fun!
Court (02.08.10) Report AbuseI know the owner and she's worked hard to provide a studio that both parents and kids love to play in!
Karen (02.08.10) Report AbuseFireworks Art Cafe is great. What better placeto find peace tha to apint pottery
Cathy (02.08.10) Report AbuseFireworks is a great place when we all just want to relax and take our time making something creative. We all have it in us to make something great. It's a nice local relaxing place to spend our free time. We love Fireworks.
GAYLA (02.07.10) Report AbuseI love this business because their was a lot of love put into it!! Very friendly and knowledgeable staff.
Myndi (02.06.10) Report AbuseSmalltown shop with loads of stuff to do, very knowledgeable staff.
jasjus (02.06.10) Report AbuseVERY personable business, family oriented and talent unlimited.
busybee527 (02.06.10) Report AbuseI opened FireWorks to become more involved in my community in a creative, constructive way. We strive to help everyone (re) discover their artistic side. Not quite 2 years old and still loving everyday.
LaurieK1964 (02.06.10) Report AbuseThis is a fun, out of the way art studio where all ages can have fun! There's pottery painting, clay, jewelry, knitting, crocheting, glass fusing -- always something new to do and a super friendly atmosphere. Plenty of room too.
LaurieK (02.06.10) Report AbuseGreat selection of everything & lots of classes in all sorts of arts! Laurie is one of the nicest people you'll ever meet & has worked hard to make Fireworks a place where young & old can have fun & learn something new!
Coleen (02.06.10) Report Abuse
Monday, January 18, 2010
What a Day!
Wow, not only was today a crazy busy day, but the entire weekend was crazy busy too! Which makes me a very happy camper. I don't know how most of you feel, but I love it when everyone comes into the studio and has a good time, tells me what a good time they are a) having, b) had, or c) want to come have again! It makes me feel like that idea I had in my head two years ago was a good one and makes me thankful that I opened right here in Damascus for my first studio.
I would love to move forward and open another, but for now I'm satisfied working this one and continuing to evolve it into a super fun place for everyone.
In case you haven't been around since last year here's a few 2009/2010 updates...
- The party room is now downstairs and the room is huge! In January 2009 we made a few changes to the downstairs area and we have seating for up to 32 painters, with room for non-painters as well.
- Glass fusing has truly taken off! You no longer need an appointment - just walk in and get a quick orientation. That's it -- within 5-10 minutes we can show you the options available, tell you about the pricing, teach you to score and break the glass and tell you about slumping options. You should try it if you haven't already.
- We added lots and lots of classes for both kids and adults.
* Jewelry creation with Karen Wagner, Beader Extraordinaire!
* Crochet classes taught by Moi from beginning to expert, to pattern troubleshooter!
* Acrylics on Canvas now taught by Moi!
* Glass and ceramic jewelry classes too!
Now in 2010 we have more great plans for you to enjoy...
- Hot Glass Lampworking - both classes and torch time rental (as well as kiln rental)
- Jewelry Kiosk by www.BeadMeAStory.com. My good friend, Mary Soucy, created (yes, created!) her very own unique bead out of various polymers that is eclectic and colorful, and a fashionable design statement. We will be selling both jewelry kits as well as individual components. The kiosk is already in place, we're just waiting for the shipment of beads and kits to arrive. Visit Mary's website to check out the cool things she does!
- Jewelry Birthday Parties for the older girls! As soon as the kiosk is complete we'll be offering jewelry making as a birthday party option. Details will be coming as soon as we get everything in place.
I would love to move forward and open another, but for now I'm satisfied working this one and continuing to evolve it into a super fun place for everyone.
In case you haven't been around since last year here's a few 2009/2010 updates...
- The party room is now downstairs and the room is huge! In January 2009 we made a few changes to the downstairs area and we have seating for up to 32 painters, with room for non-painters as well.
- Glass fusing has truly taken off! You no longer need an appointment - just walk in and get a quick orientation. That's it -- within 5-10 minutes we can show you the options available, tell you about the pricing, teach you to score and break the glass and tell you about slumping options. You should try it if you haven't already.
- We added lots and lots of classes for both kids and adults.
* Jewelry creation with Karen Wagner, Beader Extraordinaire!
* Crochet classes taught by Moi from beginning to expert, to pattern troubleshooter!
* Acrylics on Canvas now taught by Moi!
* Glass and ceramic jewelry classes too!
Now in 2010 we have more great plans for you to enjoy...
- Hot Glass Lampworking - both classes and torch time rental (as well as kiln rental)
- Jewelry Kiosk by www.BeadMeAStory.com. My good friend, Mary Soucy, created (yes, created!) her very own unique bead out of various polymers that is eclectic and colorful, and a fashionable design statement. We will be selling both jewelry kits as well as individual components. The kiosk is already in place, we're just waiting for the shipment of beads and kits to arrive. Visit Mary's website to check out the cool things she does!
- Jewelry Birthday Parties for the older girls! As soon as the kiosk is complete we'll be offering jewelry making as a birthday party option. Details will be coming as soon as we get everything in place.
- Silver Clay jewelry -- just like a polymer clay, you work your clay and shape it into pendants, cabochons and rings and when fired the polymer burns away leaving 99.9% pure silver! I can't wait to try this one - thanks Sarah! It's all your fault...I think we're going to try this in the next week or so, but first we're moving my office downstairs to make room for the lampworking studio.
- Wet Clay Birthday Parties! This may not begin until Fall this year, but we will be pulling out our slab roller and using it creatively with the kids. Wet clay is just too much fun to only have out for summer camp - so we're going to figure out a good way to make it work on a walk-in basis too.
- And lastly, we are talking about both morning and afternoon art classes for all ages for those working parents. More information to come in February for those interested in this full-day option.
Here's to another creative year of GETTING FIRED at FireWorks Art Cafe! See you soon.
- Wet Clay Birthday Parties! This may not begin until Fall this year, but we will be pulling out our slab roller and using it creatively with the kids. Wet clay is just too much fun to only have out for summer camp - so we're going to figure out a good way to make it work on a walk-in basis too.
- And lastly, we are talking about both morning and afternoon art classes for all ages for those working parents. More information to come in February for those interested in this full-day option.
Here's to another creative year of GETTING FIRED at FireWorks Art Cafe! See you soon.
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