sip and paint business plan pdf

11 Steps to Successfully Start a Paint and Sip Business

Maybe you’ve been to a paint and sip night and had a seriously good time. Or maybe you’ve just heard about it and it struck you as a good idea. Either way, learning how to start a paint and sip business can be a great first step towards this potentially being your next money maker.

Since the mid-2000s, paint and sip studios have continued to gain traction as a creative and fun way to relax. If you haven’t been to one, they basically involve people sipping wine or other alcoholic drinks while they work on group painting lessons.

Let’s be honest, there’s a bit more of a focus on the drinking aspect at these events. But the art part can be fun too!

(True story: I still have the piece I created at my first paint and sip night.)

And the paint and sip business model is projected to continue to rapidly increase in popularity, especially as world economies continue to return to pre-2020 operations.

So this detailed guide offers step-by-step instructions about how to start a paint and sip business in 2021 and beyond. It also explores some facts about paint and sip franchise opportunities.

Table of Contents

How to start a paint and sip business

There are various important steps involved in opening a paint and sip studio. Here’s a step-by-step action list to base your efforts on:

1. Define your business model and paint and sip business plan

A paint and sip business appeals to many entrepreneurs because the model is based on a combination of fun and creativity. They are excellent locations for corporate outings, girls’ nights out, Bachelorette parties, and other casual events. So, you’ll need to give some thought to the specific business model you will develop.

For instance, some paint and sips sell alcoholic beverages on-site and others operate on a BYOB basis. Some focus more on painting instruction, and others focus more on the imbibing aspect. 

Take your time and develop a unique paint and sip business plan that represents your vision.

2. Choose your paint and sip’s name

Choosing the name for your paint and sip business is important but it should be fun! 

I like to brainstorm with pen and paper so that I can see the “personality” of each potential name instead of just typed text. Remember that this is your vision and there are no set rules. 

Some of the most popular paint and sip franchises today are Painting with a Twist, Pinot’s Palette, Wine & Design, and Board & Brush. Just let your mind and sense of humor run free and jot down some ideas. You’ll probably be surprised at all the exciting variants you come up with!

You’re going to need a professional website if you want to succeed in any type of business today. When you do decide on the name for your new paint and sip venture, waste no time securing a domain name. This is very important because you want the URL for your business to match its name.

Personally, I use Hover for buying my domain names, as they’re very cheap, secure and have been great to work with whenever I’ve had any questions.

For example, at the time of writing this, the one below is still available – which is absolutely perfect for a paint and sip business! (I actually genuinely can’t believe it’s still available…)

3. Create your business’ website 

Your business website is a very important asset for your company. After all, it may be one of the first things that potential clients see when deciding whether to book you for an event. 

You can easily launch your website yourself – even if you don’t have any tech experience!

See our step-by-step guide on how to start your own site to see just how to do this in less than 20 minutes .

In particular, you’ll want to make sure your website looks as professional as possible, while matching the fact that this is a fun business to be in. 

You could actually do this yourself, especially if you use a theme like Kadence . It’s free and makes it very easy for non-techies to design their own sites.

That said, you may want to consider buying a readymade theme or even hiring someone to make a custom one for you. Check sites like Fiverr for this.

If you go with the latter, choose a designer who makes you feel comfortable and confident in their abilities. Tell your website designer about your vision for your paint and sip company. “Paint” a clear picture so that the designer can deliver the best product possible.

4. Satisfy the legalities

Each local community in every state has its own set of ordinances that dictate how new business entities are registered. Call your local Chamber of Commerce and inquire about the laws you’ll need to meet to start a paint and sip business.

Understand that you’re likely going to need a business license, liquor license, insurance, building inspections and zoning permits. Make sure that you meet all laws and regulations to ensure that your business doesn’t incur problems and/or fines in the future.

(After all, no one wants their business to turn into an illegal side hustle .)

FYI: If this all sounds a bit hard, take a look at this service offered by BetterLegal . For a flat fee, they’ll have your business up and running in two business days . All you have to do is spend five minutes filling in some forms and they’ll take care of the rest.

5. Secure your business’ location

Paint and sip businesses may require physical brick-and-mortar locations if you go down the route of offering this. The alternative is those paint and sip businesses that can be booked to come to events or where you may hire different spaces for each event for people to then attend and get a new “feel” at each one. 

That may actually be better for you if, say, you see your paint and sip business as being more like a weekend job .

But if you do prefer to start your paint and sip business in one set place, you won’t be surprised to hear that location is going to be a very important aspect of the business to consider. This is why you shouldn’t rush into leasing a location that is not going to suit your immediate and long-term needs. 

Paint and sip studios require room for painters/drinkers to relax, let loose, and enjoy their experiences. A spacious location in a busy, safe district is ideal but can be expensive, especially for a new enterprise. You’ll have to balance physical location, spaciousness, safety, and other considerations that are budget-friendly in your unique situation.

You may also be interested in: 11 Simple Steps to Start a Popcorn Business

6. Define your services and prices

After you understand more about the expenses associated with your lease, licensing, website development, and other vital overhead costs, you’ll need to clearly define your services and what they will cost. These will vary based on the types of experiences you intend to deliver to your customers.

For example, you should decide what to charge for private parties, corporate events, and for people who just walk in off the street (if you choose to cater to that demographic). 

Will you have a team or operate solo? Will you need to pay for an art instructor’s time per session? Will waiters or waitresses serve drinks? Consider rent, utilities, wages for your team, and other mandatory expenses.

Set your prices so that they cover your expenses plus allow you to turn at least a modest profit. You can then hone your pricing schedule to maximize your profits, over time, as you understand all of your business’ metrics more thoroughly.

7. Develop your online presence

While it’s true that paint and sips are in-person businesses, your online presence will still have a lot to do with your success. Along with your professional website, you’ll need to establish some social media profiles on big-league venues like Instagram and Facebook to advertise your business. That said, Twitter and maybe even TikTok could also be good to establish depending on the target demographic of your customers.

Related: 6 Proven Ways to Make Money on Snapchat

Your social media pages will help you both attract new customers and retain existing ones. People rely on technology to keep themselves in the know. I know I use social media posting and marketing to inform my customers about upcoming events, contests, giveaways, and whatever else I can think of to entice them and let them know that I care about them!

Make sure you post key information like your hours of operation, location, phone numbers, email addresses, and social media profile links. I use an online form for booking and it is amazing! Make it easy for your visitors to get what they want and move on with their days.

And because paint and sips are largely about expressing creativity, most of your wine-sipping patrons will be all too happy to share their artistic creations with your social media audiences – which can be a great way for you, in turn, to reach even more potential paint and sippers. Make it fun!

8. Booze and painting supplies

Not surprisingly, a paint and sip business relies on a ready supply of both painting supplies and alcoholic beverages. As a business owner, you’re going to need suppliers for both, and the less expensive the better. 

Research the best suppliers for paint, canvases, easels, brushes, cleaners, drop cloths – and wine! 

Remember that while quality is always important, most patrons of paint and sips are more concerned with having a relaxing good time. So just search for suppliers that meet your needs without overstressing your new business budget. 

Approach shopping with fun in mind first and it will all work out fine.

9. Marketing your paint and sip business

Social media marketing is definitely a vital element of almost all types of businesses today. According to Entrepreneur , at least 97% of all Fortune 500 companies engage in social media marketing on one or more platforms.

However, don’t forget that you can still advertise in traditional marketing vehicles like local newspapers, television ads, radio spots, billboards, and others that can be very cost-effective. 

You could also consider hosting a local charity event. Explore your options to maximize your marketing efforts with minimal expenditure.

You may also be interested in 13 Steps to Successfully Start a Lipstick Business

10. Planning your team

All businesses require more than meets the eye to make them function smoothly and profitably in the long run. It’s not always possible to do everything yourself, and even if it is, it can be exhausting and make you dread doing it again and again. You may very well need to hire some help, especially as your paint and sip business grows.

So ask yourself some honest questions about the amount of help you’re truly going to require. Don’t set unrealistic goals for yourself and end up burning out. Plan your labor cost to be beneficial to your customers, yourself, and the long-term success of your operation.

And this doesn’t have to necessarily include staff in the traditional sense, especially if you’re planning to hold the paint and sip events yourself. For example, if you’d like some help in managing your online presence or in handling the administrative side of things, why not check these virtual assistant websites and get a VA rather than someone onsite?

11. Book your first event

When you launch any business that offers a service, the very first time you have a paying customer can definitely be nerve wracking.

And the same is absolutely true when you first start a paint and sip business! But the best way to face this is head on by booking your first event and building your experience in these.

It can actually work well if you tell the attendees that it’s your first one and so they’re essentially your guinea pigs. You could even offer them a discount to start to build your list of satisfied customers, while also asking them to give feedback at the end. That way, you’ll be able to immediately start learning what works and what doesn’t, to adjust your future events accordingly.

Is a paint and sip business profitable?

Paint and sip industry growth patterns continue to be positive, with this type of business proving to be profitable for many entrepreneurs. This is especially the case for those who have tapped into opportunities like hosting corporate events and parties, while also offering other services, like art lessons.

That is, some owners use their paint and sip locations as studios for art lessons to accentuate their earnings. Of course, you don’t have to be a skilled artist to start a paint and sip business. Remember it’s about having fun and expressing creativity in a relaxing environment.

The paint and sip business model has continued to gain traction since 2007. Undoubtedly, as world economies reopen in 2021 and beyond, paint and sip studios will continue their upward trend in popularity. 

Some leading US-based paint and sip franchises are now positioned for international expansion. Modern paint and sips now offer customers amenities, including in-house cocktail bars, advanced art instruction, blacklight classes, and more diversified product offerings including high-quality art supplies and fine wines.

Paint and sip industry statistics continue to show no signs of diminishing returns in this burgeoning market space, making it a great potential income stream for a small business owner. 

“Over the five years to 2022, industry revenue is projected to grow . Contemporary art lessons and socialization has become a considerable growth segment as the sheer number of people interested in learning to paint in informal settings increases ; this trend is not expected to slow.” Profitable Venture

You may also be interested in: 7 People Who Make $10,000 a Month Just From Their Side Hustle

How much is a Painting With a Twist franchise?

According to the Painting with a Twist website, aspiring entrepreneurs can expect to incur initial investments between $120,500 and $260,000. Further, you must have at least $80,000 in liquid assets and a net worth of at least $200,000.

This broad range in the amount of initial investments needed is due to differences in real estate values and permitting fees in different locations. 

Painting with a Twist justifies the rather steep initial investment, stating that they have already worked out most of the details of the operation that cause most new business owners to fail. They also offer established vendors and insider information about where to rent space, how much square footage is best, and other nuances that new owners would not be privy to.

The initial investment in a Painting with a Twist franchise covers startup costs for:

• 2 months rent plus a security deposit on the location for the business
• Travel and living expenses during training
• Advertising for the Grand Opening
• Equipment, furniture, and fixtures
• Building permits and licenses
• Legal and accounting costs
• Initial inventory

Other costs covered by the initial investment include computers and software, architectural expenses, signage, leasehold improvements, and design fees. That may seem like a lot but it should be for that amount of initial investment. 

Of course, you don’t have to start a paint and sip business as a franchised operation. You are free to develop your own business model to outshine even the most well-established franchise!

How profitable is Painting With a Twist?

There are now 283 Painting with a Twist franchise locations in the United States. The profitability of any one location depends on various factors including local demand, labor expenses, lease rates, and more. The company website offers no direct insights as to the profitability of individual franchise locations.

That said, the fact that it has grown so much does indicate that this is indeed a profitable way to start a paint and sip business. This is further supported by sources like Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500 list , which is released every year.

Painting With a Twist has been ranked on that list each year since 2014, with its highest rank being in 2018 at 168. Given how many franchises there are in the US, this is a fairly impressive result.

Final thoughts on how to start a paint and sip business

Going through the process of learning how to start a paint and sip business may take some time, but given that paint and sip industry statistics are showing serious growth in this sector, it can definitely be worth it.

You could always skip a few steps by finding a paint and sip business that’s for sale or even by opening up a franchise, like Painting With a Twist. That said, while this comes with a lot of advantages from a setting up perspective, this can be more expensive than doing it yourself. As such, whichever paint night business is best for you will depend on your own situation.

But whichever way you go, it’s safe to say that this is one of the more fun businesses you can launch!

Anna is the founder of LogicalDollar and a personal finance expert, having been featured in Forbes, HuffPost, Reader’s Digest, Bankrate, MSN Money, Yahoo! Finance, CreditCards.com and many more. With more than 10 years of experience in the financial and legal industries, bachelor’s and master’s degrees in these fields, as well as her own journey in turning $60,000 in debt into a thriving investment portfolio, she’s committed to helping others get on the path to financial freedom.

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Paint and Sip Business

Back to All Business Ideas

How to Start a Paint and Sip Business

Written by: Carolyn Young

Carolyn Young is a business writer who focuses on entrepreneurial concepts and the business formation. She has over 25 years of experience in business roles, and has authored several entrepreneurship textbooks.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on May 3, 2022 Updated on April 1, 2024

Investment range

$6,050 - $13,600

Revenue potential

$90,000 - $364,000 p.a.

Time to build

0 – 3 months

Profit potential

$36,000 - $73,000 p.a.

Industry trend

When Renee Maloney and Cathy Deano founded Corks and Canvas in 2007, which later became Painting with a Twist, never in their wildest dreams did they imagine what it would eventually become. Started as an escape from the horrors of Hurricane Katrina, that first shop was just a little New Orleans studio where people could paint, chat and relax while sipping wine. 

Imitators like Pinot’s Palette soon followed and now paint and sip is a legit US industry, worth more than $100 million. Some 15 years ago the US was home to zero paint and sip companies — now it’s home to more than 700! You could join the painting party with your own paint and sip business, cashing in on a hot market while helping people get out, have fun and socialize.  

But before you pop the cork, you’ll need to learn how the business launch process works. Luckily, this step-by-step guide will teach you everything you need to start a successful paint and sip business. 

Looking to register your business? A limited liability company (LLC) is the best legal structure for new businesses because it is fast and simple.

Form your business immediately using ZenBusiness LLC formation service or hire one of the Best LLC Services .

Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You

Pros and cons.

Starting a paint and sip business has pros and cons to consider before deciding if it’s right for you.

• Growing Market – Paint and sip popularity is expected to continue to rise
• Good Times – The whole point is to relax and enjoy a bit of creativity
• Good Money – Make about $35 per person per two-hour session
• Tough Competition – Everybody’s getting in on this hot new market
• Liability – Need to keep an eye on alcohol consumption to avoid DUIs

Paint and sip industry trends

Industry size and growth.

• Industry size and past growth – The US paint and sip industry was worth $115.2 million in 2021 after expanding 4.5% each of the previous five years.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/paint-sip-studios-industry/ ))
• Growth forecast – The US paint and sip industry is projected to see modest growth the next five years. 
• Number of businesses – In 2021, 714 paint and sip businesses were operating in the US. 
• Number of people employed – In 2021, the US paint and sip industry employed 4.449 people. 

Trends and challenges

Trends in the paint and sip industry include:

• Purchasing a paint and sip franchise is a potential opportunity for entrepreneurs. Franchise Chatter ranks Painting with a Twist the number one paint and sip franchise opportunity in 2022.
• Virtual paint and sip classes are rising in popularity, creating an opportunity for paint and sip entrepreneurs to broaden their potential market.

Challenges in the paint and sip industry include:

• Many companies are entering the market, making the industry much more competitive.
• If you sell liquor at your paint and sip classes, you will need to have a liquor license. Even if people bring their own, you need to be aware of how much people are drinking due to the potential for liability. 

How much does it cost to start a paint and sip business?

Startup costs for a paint and sip business range from $6,000 to $13,000. Costs include studio space rental, space preparation, and supplies.

You’ll need a handful of items to successfully launch your paint and sip business, including: 

• Paints and other art supplies like paintbrushes

How much can you earn from a paint and sip business?

The average price of a paint and sip class is $35 per person. Your profit margin after rent, supplies, and overhead should be about 40%.

In your first year or two, you might hold five classes per week for 10 people, bringing in more than $90,000 in annual revenue. This would mean $36,000 in profit, assuming that 40% margin. As your studio gains popularity, you might do 10 classes a week for 20 people each. At this stage, you’d hire staff, reducing your profit margin to around 20%. With annual revenue of $364,000, you’d make a healthy profit of $73,000. At this point, you might want to consider opening more locations.

What barriers to entry are there?

There are a few barriers to entry for a paint and sip business. Your biggest challenges will be:

• Finding a way to stand out in a new and competitive market
• The startup costs of a studio and art supplies

Related Business Ideas

How to Start a Painting Business

How to Open an Art Gallery

How to Start a Craft Business

Step 2: hone your idea.

Now that you know what’s involved in starting a paint and sip business, it’s a good idea to hone your concept in preparation to enter a competitive market. 

Market research will give you the upper hand, even if you’re already positive that you have a perfect product or service. Conducting market research is important, because it can help you understand your customers better, who your competitors are, and your business landscape.

Why? Identify an opportunity

Research paint and sip businesses in your area to examine their services, price points, and customer reviews. You’re looking for a market gap to fill. For instance, maybe the local market is missing a paint and sip business that has guest local artists teach classes or one that serves alcoholic beverages instead of having guests bring their own. 

You might consider targeting a niche market by specializing in a certain aspect of your industry, such as a private party paint and sip business, or virtual paint and sip classes.

This could jumpstart your word-of-mouth marketing and attract clients right away. 

What? Determine your products or services

In addition to paint and sip classes, you can offer private paint parties, sell alcoholic beverages or snacks and hors d’oeuvres. 

How much should you charge for paint and sip classes?

The average price for a paint and sip class is $35 per person, and classes typically last two hours. Check paint and sip class prices in your area to make sure you’re competitive. After rent and overhead costs, when you’re running the classes by yourself, you should aim for a profit margin of about 40%.

Once you know your costs, you can use this Step By Step profit margin calculator to determine your mark-up and final price points. Remember, the prices you use at launch should be subject to change if warranted by the market.

Who? Identify your target market

The target market for paint and sip classes is broad, typically ages 21 to 64, so you should spread out your marketing to include sites like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. You also could target business owners who might book a paint party as a team event. You can connect with them on LinkedIn or find them on Google or Yelp and call them directly. 

Where? Choose your paint and sip location

The location of your paint and sip business can greatly impact its success. Look for a spot in a central and convenient area, such as a busy shopping district or a popular entertainment hub.

Depending on the type of paint and sip business you plan to start, you may also want to consider the proximity to other entertainment venues or dining options, to create a full night out for customers.

When selecting a location, ensure that it meets all necessary safety and regulatory requirements for paint and sip businesses. By strategically choosing the right location, you can establish a profitable and successful paint and sip business that offers a fun and unique experience for customers, while standing out in the competitive entertainment industry.

You can find commercial space to rent in your area on sites such as Craigslist , Crexi , and Instant Offices .

When choosing a commercial space, you may want to follow these rules of thumb:

• Central location accessible via public transport
• Ventilated and spacious, with good natural light
• Flexible lease that can be extended as your business grows
• Ready-to-use space with no major renovations or repairs needed

Step 3: Brainstorm a Paint and Sip Business Name

Your business name is your business identity, so choose one that encapsulates your objectives, services, and mission in just a few words. You probably want a name that’s short and easy to remember, since much of your business, and your initial business in particular, will come from word-of-mouth referrals.

Here are some ideas for brainstorming your business name:

• Short, unique, and catchy names tend to stand out
• Names that are easy to say and spell tend to do better 
• Name should be relevant to your product or service offerings
• Ask around — family, friends, colleagues, social media — for suggestions
• Including keywords, such as “paint and sip” or “painting parties”, boosts SEO
• Name should allow for expansion, for ex: “Canvas and Cocktails” over “Date Night Paint and Sip”
• Avoid location-based names that might hinder future expansion
• Use online tools like the Step by Step Business Name Generator . Just type in a few keywords and hit “generate” and you’ll have dozens of suggestions at your fingertips.

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, visit the website of the US Patent and Trademark Office to make sure they are available for registration and check the availability of related domain names using our Domain Name Search tool. Using “.com” or “.org” sharply increases credibility, so it’s best to focus on these. 

Find a Domain

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Finally, make your choice among the names that pass this screening and go ahead with domain registration and social media account creation. Your business name is one of the key differentiators that sets your business apart. Once you pick your company name, and start with the branding, it is hard to change the business name. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider your choice before you start a business entity.

Step 4: Create a Paint and Sip Business Plan

Every business needs a plan. This will function as a guidebook to take your startup through the launch process and maintain focus on your key goals. A business plan also enables potential partners and investors to better understand your company and its vision:

• Executive Summary : Brief overview of the entire business plan; should be written after the plan is complete.
• Business Overview : Overview of the company, vision, mission, ownership, and corporate goals.
• Product and Services : Describe your offerings in detail.
• Market Analysis : Assess market trends such as variations in demand and prospects for growth, and do a SWOT analysis .
• Competitive Analysis : Analyze main competitors, assessing their strengths and weaknesses, and create a list of the advantages of your services.
• Sales and Marketing : Examine your companies’ unique selling propositions (USPs) and develop sales, marketing, and promotional strategies.
• Management Team : Overview of management team, detailing their roles and professional background, along with a corporate hierarchy.
• Operations Plan : Your company’s operational plan includes procurement, office location, key assets and equipment, and other logistical details.
• Financial Plan : Three years of financial planning, including startup costs, break-even analysis, profit and loss estimates, cash flow, and balance sheet.
• Appendix : Include any additional financial or business-related documents.

If you’ve never created a business plan, it can be an intimidating task. You might consider hiring a business plan specialist to create a top-notch business plan for you.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.

Plus, registration is exciting because it makes the entire process official. Once it’s complete, you’ll have your own business! 

Choose where to register your company

Your business location is important because it can affect taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. Most people will register their business in the state where they live, but if you’re planning to expand, you might consider looking elsewhere, as some states could offer real advantages when it comes to paint and sip businesses. 

If you’re willing to move, you could really maximize your business! Keep in mind, it’s relatively easy to transfer your business to another state. 

Choose your business structure

Business entities come in several varieties, each with its pros and cons. The legal structure you choose for your paint and sip business will shape your taxes, personal liability, and business registration requirements, so choose wisely. 

Here are the main options:

• Sole Proprietorship – The most common structure for small businesses makes no legal distinction between company and owner. All income goes to the owner, who’s also liable for any debts, losses, or liabilities incurred by the business. The owner pays taxes on business income on his or her personal tax return.
• General Partnership – Similar to a sole proprietorship, but for two or more people. Again, owners keep the profits and are liable for losses. The partners pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Combines the characteristics of corporations with those of sole proprietorships or partnerships. Again, the owners are not personally liable for debts.
• C Corp – Under this structure, the business is a distinct legal entity and the owner or owners are not personally liable for its debts. Owners take profits through shareholder dividends, rather than directly. The corporation pays taxes, and owners pay taxes on their dividends, which is sometimes referred to as double taxation.
• S Corp – An S-Corporation refers to the tax classification of the business but is not a business entity. An S-Corp can be either a corporation or an LLC , which just need to elect to be an S-Corp for tax status. In an S-Corp, income is passed through directly to shareholders, who pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.

We recommend that new business owners choose LLC as it offers liability protection and pass-through taxation while being simpler to form than a corporation. You can form an LLC in as little as five minutes using an online LLC formation service. They will check that your business name is available before filing, submit your articles of organization , and answer any questions you might have.

Form Your LLC

Choose Your State

We recommend ZenBusiness as the Best LLC Service for 2023

Step 6: Register for Taxes

The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number , or EIN. You can file for your EIN online or by mail or fax: visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN. 

Once you have your EIN, you’ll need to choose your tax year. Financially speaking, your business will operate in a calendar year (January–December) or a fiscal year, a 12-month period that can start in any month. This will determine your tax cycle, while your business structure will determine which taxes you’ll pay.

The IRS website also offers a tax-payers checklist, and taxes can be filed online.

It is important to consult an accountant or other professional to help you with your taxes to ensure you’re completing them correctly.

Step 7: Fund your Business

Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:

• Bank loans: This is the most common method but getting approved requires a rock-solid business plan and strong credit history.
• SBA-guaranteed loans: The Small Business Administration can act as guarantor, helping gain that elusive bank approval via an SBA-guaranteed loan .
• Government grants: A handful of financial assistance programs help fund entrepreneurs. Visit Grants.gov to learn which might work for you.
• Friends and Family: Reach out to friends and family to provide a business loan or investment in your concept. It’s a good idea to have legal advice when doing so because SEC regulations apply.
• Crowdfunding: Websites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo offer an increasingly popular low-risk option, in which donors fund your vision. Entrepreneurial crowdfunding sites like Fundable and WeFunder enable multiple investors to fund your business.
• Personal: Self-fund your business via your savings or the sale of property or other assets.

Bank and SBA loans are probably the best option, other than friends and family, for funding a paint and sip business. You might also try crowdfunding if you have an innovative concept. 

Step 8: Apply for Business Licenses and Permits

Starting a paint and sip business requires obtaining a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments.

You’ll need a liquor license if you’re serving alcohol. Check with your state for requirements.

Federal regulations, licenses, and permits associated with starting your business include doing business as (DBA), health licenses and permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific licenses and permits. 

You may also need state-level and local county or city-based licenses and permits. The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn more. 

You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements, but we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package . They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state and provide them to ensure you’re fully compliant.

This is not a step to be taken lightly, as failing to comply with legal requirements can result in hefty penalties.

If you feel overwhelmed by this step or don’t know how to begin, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you check all the legal boxes.

Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account

Before you start making money, you’ll need a place to keep it, and that requires opening a bank account .

Keeping your business finances separate from your personal account makes it easy to file taxes and track your company’s income, so it’s worth doing even if you’re running your paint and sip business as a sole proprietorship. Opening a business bank account is quite simple, and similar to opening a personal one. Most major banks offer accounts tailored for businesses — just inquire at your preferred bank to learn about their rates and features.

Banks vary in terms of offerings, so it’s a good idea to examine your options and select the best plan for you. Once you choose your bank, bring in your EIN (or Social Security Number if you decide on a sole proprietorship), articles of incorporation, and other legal documents and open your new account. 

Step 10: Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is an area that often gets overlooked yet it can be vital to your success as an entrepreneur. Insurance protects you from unexpected events that can have a devastating impact on your business.

Here are some types of insurance to consider:

• General liability: The most comprehensive type of insurance, acting as a catch-all for many business elements that require coverage. If you get just one kind of insurance, this is it. It even protects against bodily injury and property damage.
• Business Property: Provides coverage for your equipment and supplies.
• Equipment Breakdown Insurance: Covers the cost of replacing or repairing equipment that has broken due to mechanical issues.
• Worker’s compensation: Provides compensation to employees injured on the job.
• Property: Covers your physical space, whether it is a cart, storefront, or office.
• Commercial auto: Protection for your company-owned vehicle.
• Professional liability: Protects against claims from a client who says they suffered a loss due to an error or omission in your work.
• Business owner’s policy (BOP): This is an insurance plan that acts as an all-in-one insurance policy, a combination of the above insurance types.

Step 11: Prepare to Launch

As opening day nears, prepare for launch by reviewing and improving some key elements of your business. 

Essential software and tools

Being an entrepreneur often means wearing many hats, from marketing to sales to accounting, which can be overwhelming. Fortunately, many websites and digital tools are available to help simplify many business tasks. 

You may want to use industry-specific software, such as My Studio Engine or Event Espresso , to manage your online events, party bookings, ordering, and payments.

• Popular web-based accounting programs for smaller businesses include Quickbooks , Freshbooks , and Xero . 
• If you’re unfamiliar with basic accounting, you may want to hire a professional, especially as you begin. The consequences for filing incorrect tax documents can be harsh, so accuracy is crucial. 

Develop your website

Website development is crucial because your site is your online presence and needs to convince prospective clients of your expertise and professionalism.

You can create your own website using services like WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace . This route is very affordable, but figuring out how to build a website can be time-consuming. If you lack tech-savvy, you can hire a web designer or developer to create a custom website for your business.

They are unlikely to find your website, however, unless you follow Search Engine Optimization ( SEO ) practices. These are steps that help pages rank higher in the results of top search engines like Google. 

Starting a Paint and Sip business is an exciting venture that combines creativity with socializing. To ensure a successful launch and sustained growth, consider these effective marketing strategies:

• Collaborate with Local Businesses: Forge partnerships with local restaurants, cafes, or event spaces to cross-promote your Paint and Sip events, tapping into their customer base for increased exposure.
• Leverage Social Media Influencers: Identify and collaborate with local influencers who align with your brand, encouraging them to attend and share their experience on social media platforms to reach a broader audience.
• Themed Events and Promotions: Create themed painting events tied to holidays, seasons, or popular trends, and offer promotions or discounts to attract a diverse audience and keep your offerings fresh.
• Student and Senior Discounts: Implement special discounts for students and seniors, targeting these demographics with tailored promotions to make your Paint and Sip events more accessible and appealing.
• Gift Certificates and Group Packages: Introduce gift certificates and group packages to encourage repeat business and word-of-mouth referrals, capitalizing on the social nature of the Paint and Sip experience.
• Interactive Online Presence: Engage your audience with interactive content on social media, such as polls, quizzes, and behind-the-scenes glimpses, fostering a sense of community and anticipation for upcoming events.
• Local Artisan Collaborations: Partner with local artists or artisans to feature their work at your events or offer collaborative workshops, enriching the overall experience and broadening your appeal to art enthusiasts.
• Community Events and Sponsorships: Participate in or sponsor local community events, fairs, or fundraisers to raise awareness about your business and build a positive reputation within the community.
• Customer Loyalty Programs: Implement a customer loyalty program with incentives like discounted tickets, exclusive events, or freebies for frequent attendees, fostering a sense of belonging and encouraging repeat visits.
• Engaging Email Campaigns: Build and maintain an email list to regularly update subscribers on upcoming events, promotions, and exclusive offers, keeping your business top-of-mind for potential attendees.

Focus on USPs

Unique selling propositions, or USPs, are the characteristics of a product or service that set it apart from the competition. Customers today are inundated with buying options, so you’ll have a real advantage if they are able to quickly grasp how your paint and sip business meets their needs or wishes. It’s wise to do all you can to ensure your USPs stand out on your website and in your marketing and promotional materials, stimulating buyer desire. 

Global pizza chain Domino’s is renowned for its USP: “Hot pizza in 30 minutes or less, guaranteed.” Signature USPs for your paint and sip business could be: 

• Grab some wine and friends and come express yourself! 
• Fine wine and canvases to create your masterpiece
• Private painting parties with top wines and signature cocktails

You may not like to network or use personal connections for business gain. But your personal and professional networks likely offer considerable untapped business potential. Maybe that Facebook friend you met in college is now running a paint and sip business, or a LinkedIn contact of yours is connected to dozens of potential clients. Maybe your cousin or neighbor has been working in paint and sip classes for years and can offer invaluable insight and industry connections. 

The possibilities are endless, so it’s a good idea to review your personal and professional networks and reach out to those with possible links to or interest in paint and sip classes. You’ll probably generate new customers or find companies with which you could establish a partnership. 

Step 12: Build Your Team

If you’re starting out small, you may not need any employees. But as your business grows, you will likely need workers to fill various roles. Potential positions for a paint and sip business include:

• Class Instructors – oversee classes, customer service
• General Manager – scheduling, ordering, accounting
• Marketing Lead – SEO strategies, social media

At some point, you may need to hire all of these positions or simply a few, depending on the size and needs of your business. You might also hire multiple workers for a single role or a single worker for multiple roles, again depending on need. 

Free-of-charge methods to recruit employees include posting ads on popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. You might also consider a premium recruitment option, such as advertising on Indeed , Glassdoor , or ZipRecruiter . Further, if you have the resources, you could consider hiring a recruitment agency to help you find talent. 

Step 13: Run a Paint and Sip Business – Start Making Money!

Paint and sip classes have seen explosive growth and show no signs of slowing down. Starting a paint and sip business is a great way to make a good living while creating a fun space for people to escape their cares and have a great time. If you create a calming, appealing space and deliver reliably pleasant experiences for your guests, the sky’s the limit. 

You’ve started in the right place, gathering all the business know-how you need, so it’s time to break out the canvas and embark on your new paint and sip adventure!

• Paint and Sip Business FAQs

Yes, a paint and sip business can be very profitable. You just need to find a good location, set your studio up well, and put your passion into the business and you can make good money.

The average price for a paint and sip class is $35 per person, and classes typically last two hours. Check paint and sip class prices in your area to make sure you’re competitive.

The type of paint commonly used at paint and sip events is acrylic paint. Acrylic paints are favored for their fast drying time, versatility, and ease of use, making them suitable for beginners and providing a fun and interactive experience.

To differentiate your paint and sip business from competitors, consider offering unique themes or specialized painting techniques, providing a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, and offering additional services such as private events. 

To expand your paint and sip business and reach more clients and markets, consider offering mobile paint and sip services to bring the experience to different locations, or partnering with local businesses or event venues.

To source and provide art supplies for your paint and sip business, establish relationships with reputable art suppliers or wholesalers who offer a variety of paints, brushes, canvases, easels, and other necessary materials. Consider bulk purchasing to get cost savings. 

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• Decide if the Business Is Right for You
• Hone Your Idea
• Brainstorm a Paint and Sip Business Name
• Create a Paint and Sip Business Plan
• Register Your Business
• Register for Taxes
• Fund your Business
• Apply for Business Licenses and Permits
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get Business Insurance
• Prepare to Launch
• Build Your Team
• Run a Paint and Sip Business - Start Making Money!

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