Brushstrokes and Bliss

My journey as an artist began in the classroom as an educator. I used art as a primary vehicle for early childhood learning, integrating math, science, social development, and emotional skills into hands-on art projects for my preschool students. What started in a small converted storage closet turned art studio grew into an annual spring art show for our entire childcare center. However, I quickly realized my passion for inspiring creativity couldn't be contained within school walls.In 2018, a friend asked me to host a paint-and-sip party for her daughter’s birthday, covering the cost of supplies and prep. The event was such a success that parents began asking for my business information right then and there. I booked four parties in a single week. At the time, I was still learning how to price and structure a formal business, and as I was also expecting a child, I kept operations manageable.By 2020, at eight weeks postpartum, I launched DIY art kits for kids and adults to meet the growing need for home-based creative outlets. Operating through Facebook Marketplace, word of mouth, family, and friends, I built the business while caring for a newborn and guiding my oldest child through 4th-grade virtual learning. In the midst of doing kits, I got work as an artist/instructor with a New York-based company called Paint and Sip Live. I taught classes with hundreds of students via Zoom and Teams, with partnerships they had with Fenty Beauty and Budweiser, to name a few. This gave me the experience I needed to teach multiple classes and kept me financially afloat to grow my business. With this opportunity, it made me no stranger to teaching a large group of people how to paint and find joy in the process, not just the product.Today, after eight years in business, we recently rebranded from CreativeSoule Art to Brushstrokes and Bliss. The new name reflects my evolution as a founder: while the business began as a personal creative outlet, it has transformed into a mission to bring bliss, connection, and joy to others. We believe that ignited creativity is a fundamental human need—whether for our youngest artists or for doubtful adults who were once told they weren't "artistic."Brushstrokes and Bliss is a self-funded family enterprise that I operate alongside my husband, Akim, who holds 50% ownership. While he isn't an artist, his business acumen, administrative support, and steadfast backing make him my greatest partner and investor. Together, we have built a solid foundation, but we are ready to take the next strategic leap. Our company motto is "Where Creativity Meets Community."