If you’re a paint party business owner, you know the hustle of the busy season is real. Between managing multiple parties, preparing supplies, and ensuring everything goes off without a hitch, it can feel overwhelming. That’s why I swear by packing art kits ahead of time. Trust me, it’s a game-changer! Let’s dive into how I prep for success (and keep my sanity) during the paint party rush.
Embrace the Mess
First off, let’s get real: prep work is messy. Social media might make it seem like everyone else has a perfectly tidy setup, but let me assure you, behind the scenes, there’s paint, brushes, and canvases everywhere. And that’s okay! The mess is part of the creative process. Don’t sweat it; embrace it.
Start with a Supply List
Before diving into the prep, I always print out a supply list. This keeps me organized and ensures nothing gets forgotten. Whether it’s canvases, brushes, or my favorite paints (shoutout to DecoArt 2oz bottles—perfect for travel and paint parties!), having everything listed saves me from last-minute panic.
Craft Bags for the Win
I use simple craft bags from Amazon to pack individual kits. Each bag includes:
- Pre-measured paint cups
- Brushes (I recommend a 1-inch flat, round brush, and liner)
- Step-by-step instructions for the painting (which can be found pre-made in Paint Party Headquarters, by the way!)
For larger parties, having these kits ready to hand out as guests arrive makes everything so much smoother. Guests can dive in right away, and I can focus on hosting.
Make It Fun
To keep the process enjoyable, I put on some great music or a feel-good movie while prepping. Pro tip: reward yourself with a coffee break or snack after packing a few paint kits—it makes the task less daunting.
Prepare for Any Party Size
Recently, I prepped for two wildly different paint and sip events: a small 7-person party and a 75-person event. While the numbers may differ, the prep strategy stays the same. The key is consistency. And remember, the size of your painting party doesn’t define your worth as a host. A small event can still bring joy (and income), just like a big one.
Door Prizes Add a Special Touch
To make my events memorable, I always include fun door prizes. Cute items like mini snowman ornaments or Highland cow-themed goodies are crowd favorites. It’s the little touches that keep guests coming back!
Don’t Overthink It
One of the best lessons I’ve learned is to avoid “tripping over pennies to make dollars.” Don’t stress about every tiny detail, like a little wasted paint. Focus on creating a fun and welcoming experience for your guests. That’s what they’ll remember.
Networking Matters
While prepping art kits, I also think about networking. Paint parties are a fantastic way to build relationships and grow your business. Whether it’s chatting with guests, encouraging referrals, or connecting with local entrepreneurs, these connections can turn into long-term opportunities.
Rest and Recharge
Finally, remember to schedule downtime. The fourth quarter can be intense, so plan for a breather in January. For me, that means going on a cruise (where I even sneak in some painting time!). Resting ensures you’re ready to tackle the new year with fresh energy.
Packing art kits might take a bit of time upfront, but it’s 100% worth it when paint night rolls around. Everything’s organized, guests are happy, and you can focus on the fun. So grab your supply list, put on some music, and get prepping—you’ve got this!
If you’re looking for more tips on growing your paint party business, or if you’d love coaching and access to a community of creative business owners, join Paint Party Headquarters! You’ll get hundreds of designs, marketing strategies, and the support you need to turn your passion into profit. Check it out here!