Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristen Williams.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Kristen. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I believe that everyone’s path is laid out for them. Sometimes it does not make sense at the time, but in the end it is right where you are supposed to be.
When I was little I loved kids, babysitting and crafting. In fact, I spent a good chunk of my time in high school scrapbooking my memories and babysitting for families. After one of the children I babysat got diagnosed with Autism, I became extremely interested in his speech therapy. I decided right then, that I wanted to become a speech language pathologist.
I moved from Seattle to attend Texas Christian University and finished my degree in speech pathology as well as a minor in psychology. While doing my practicum, I realized that what I enjoyed most about my profession was relationships I was forming with my clients. I wanted to spend more time with them, not just our 30 min of therapy.
I furthered my education at Texas Christian University and obtained my Master’s degree in Special Education as well as my teaching certifications. I went on to teaching in both the public and private schools for the last 13 years. I loved teaching and spending time helping my students learn and love learning. I loved being able to use my creativity to make lessons meaningful and fun. I was able to form relationships with my students and connect with those that posed to be a “challenge” either academically or behaviorally.
Last spring, I was presented with the opportunity to own The Art Barn Studio. Being that I am not a risk taker in life, I was really surprised at how calm and sure I was that owning this business was supposed to be my path. Within a few weeks of pursuing this endeavor, I was the new owner of The Art Barn Studio. This studio means a lot to me. It’s a place that is accepting of all people! It’s a place that no matter how young or old you are, you can come in and find something to challenge your creativity. The Art Barn is a place to have FUN, but it has also become a place where therapist bring clients for recreational therapy, people going through a tough time come in to relax, families come in to make memories together, and people try new things.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
No, it has not been a smooth road. Taking over an existing business seems like it would be smooth but right after I bought the business I was told our existing lease would not be renewed and we had 3 months to secure a new location. Being a new business owner, I had to manage how to move, not be closed too long while moving during our busiest months, get set up and running, and make sure all our customers knew we were moving. Our moving date changed 3 times so continuing to communicate date changes was challenging.
In addition, the business needed some updating. Things that I didn’t realize upon purchasing or were not disclosed to me. Our kiln broke, our point of sale computer system needed updating, our glazing machine was on the fritz, and our website was not user or mobile friendly. It was a lot of things going wrong at once.
I bought all new equipment, had to learn very quickly how to manage and use the new point of sale, and rebuilt an entirely new website. Being that I had not been a business owner before I had a huge learning curve
Please tell us about The Art Barn Studio.
The Art Barn Studio is a creative art studio offering many different make-your-own projects, parties, field trips, and classes. The Art Barn Studio provides a fun environment that encourages learning and self-expression through art. We specialize in paint your own pottery pieces, wood art, mosaics and ceramic fusion. We are known for parties, special events we host, and our family environment.
I am the most proud of Art Barn for the reputation it has in our community. We are a place that has been established for many years and families, schools, and groups remember the memories made at our studio. Parents trust us with their kids during camps and kids night out events and we have adults choosing to host teambuilding events, bridal/baby showers and birthday parties with us! I am proud that Art Barn feels like a safe and fun place for everyone!
I believe what sets us apart from others is the relationships and connections we make with our customers. We spend time getting to know our customers and letting them get to know us. We are personable and make every effort to go above and beyond to help our customers create pieces they love. We cater to all age groups from toddlers to adults. We are a small family run studio. My wonderful mother Cheryl works the studio along with Karis our amazing college student. The 3 of us make everything in the studio happen. When customers come to our studio they recognize us and we recognize them!
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
If I had to start over, I don’t think I would have done anything differently! I love being the owner of The Art Barn Studio and I love the opportunity to share art, create fun events, host memorable parties and meet a wide variety of people.
The path that I took to get The Art Barn where it is today would not have happened without the frustrations I have experienced along the way. I am a very hands on person and love learning new things. Had I not gone down the path I did, I would not have learned what I currently know.
Pricing:
- No Studio Fees
- Prices start at $10 for pottery and wood and include all the supplies needed
Contact Info:
- Address: 201 W. Bufford St. Suite 107
Burleson, Tx 76028 - Website: www.theartbarnstudio.com
- Phone: 817-426-3232
- Email: artbarnstudio@gmail.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theartbarnstudio/
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
