Today we’d like to introduce you to Candy Simchik.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I have always loved being creative since I was a young child, but much later realized how much I enjoy bringing people of all ages together thru art. What started out as a simple love for painting, slowly grew into teaching children about famous artists and later, painting for others. This evolved into enjoying small, casual paint gatherings with family, friends, and neighbors as we came together to create our very own “masterpieces”. After enjoying many of these small gatherings, I then began hosting paint parties for small groups, community events, and fundraisers. It is in these parties that I have found the greatest joy in teaching and encouraging others – especially those that did not think of themselves as “artistic”. My step by step approach allows guests to relax, have fun and leave feeling proud, but above all, in having created a unique cherished memory of our time together. For me – using art to create those memories is incredibly fulfilling!
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Like most small business owners, I have learned that some of the hardest and biggest challenges are simply getting the word out and finding the right place to host where people can gather for paint parties. Advertising is always a work in progress. I am constantly looking for new spaces and partnerships where people can gather comfortably to create together. While challenging at times, it has also pushed me to connect more deeply with my community, meeting amazing people and discovering new opportunities – keeping me excited about what’s ahead!
Another struggle would be following painting trends that come and go. But despite loving to paint trends, I find more joy in showing simple designs that evoke memories or create new memories
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialize in hosting guided paint parties and creative experiences for all ages, from kids parties and family events, to ladies/couples nights, fundraisers and community gatherings. For me creating a welcoming space where people gain confidence, enjoy the process and leave feeling proud of what they’ve made is what I am best known for. My focus is making art approachable and exciting, even for those that don’t consider themselves artistic. I believe there are no wrong answers in art and I encourage painters to think outside of the box and to be open to trying new techniques and colors which sets me apart from others. I also try to create designs that have a local vibe. For example, I hosted a party where we painted a whimsical donkey with the proceeds benefitting the local donkey rescue. My focus is always on making art approachable and fun! I also offer commission work, creating custom paintings that celebrate meaningful moments, including portraits of cherished pets, and am most proud of creating original designs.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
People can support me in many ways…by booking and hosting a paint partying their home or clubhouse, partnering for community events or fundraisers, or by signing up to enjoy a party in the area. I am always open to creative partnerships that bring people together and offer businesses an opportunity to bring new people into their establishments. Supporting me can also be as simple as inviting friends to my parties and following/sharing my FB page. Every bit of support helps keep local art and community connections thriving!
Pricing:
- Paint Parties: Prices generally range from $25-60 per person, based on project size, materials and complexity
- Fundraisers: Special pricing is offered to maximize donations in support of local groups and causes.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Brushstrokes by Candy
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=brushstrokes%20by%20you
