Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in arts and craft but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Sharon Urena, co-founder of Paint and Sip LIVE, located in New York, NY, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

At Paint and Sip Live, we love having fun, making art, socializing, listening to music, and having a great time. If this sounds like you, then we are the paint and sip event for you! We host online painting classes accompanied by a live DJ or music act to keep you entertained without leaving home.

Tell us about yourself

Since I was a kid, I've always drawn. That's always been a thing I do. But I was discouraged from pursuing art professionally. Instead, I graduated from college with a degree in psychology and actually developed an advancing career working for city agencies. Meanwhile, I never stopped drawing and painting.

When the idea of Paint and Sip LIVE was born, everything clicked. I founded this company with my best friend and her husband. It's been an amazing ride. I wish I could say I got a degree in painting and have worked as an artist for all these years. But that's not my journey. And this is what makes me appreciate my role at Paint and Sip LIVE even more because I wasn't supposed to make a career of this. It's a dream. I love it!

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment as a business owner has been being able to thrive despite of a pandemic and all the hardships that it brought with it. Additionally, the connections we have been able to make with all of our clients despite having a virtual platform.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

One of the hardest things that come with being a business owner is learning how to balance your business and personal life. Many times you can get very consumed in your business and all that comes with it, but it is important to make time for your family and friends. It is also important to make time for self-care.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Try to start something that you love and/or are really good at - It will come easily, and you will not feel like you are working.
  2. It's okay to ask for help to run your business successfully. You do not need to know everything, but it's important to be resourceful and know to ask those who do know.
  3. Being flexible is important to growing. Listen to your clients and shift as needed.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

We offer two free classes every month. Feel free to BYOS (supplies) and join us! https://www.paintandsiplive.com/events

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.paintandsiplive.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paintandsiplive/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/paint-and-sip-live/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.