For some people, art releases energy and emotions, helping them to decompress and be free to be creative. And that’s exactly the idea behind the Blush & Brushes Art Studio in Shillington, owned by Victoria Parisi.
In the Beginning
After graduating from Albright College in 2010, Victoria worked as a freelance designer. But while graphic design and website design can be creative, she says she didn’t find it the same as painting or drawing. “Art, for me, is a form of therapy, so I needed it back,” she explains.
With that in mind, Victoria decided she had to find a way to bring it back into her life and to share it with others. “I heard about the ‘paint and sip’ concept, and I thought I’d try it here,” she says.
The response was unanimous. Everyone loved it.
At first, Victoria traveled to art studios, restaurants and wineries to host her classes. After about a year of doing traveling classes, she decided in 2016 that she needed a home base. She opened her first studio space in Shillington in a rented industrial warehouse. Two years later, she decided she needed a permanent place and purchased a property in Shillington.
Her new studio features an temperature-controlled indoor sunroom space that seats up to 16, as well as a newly built outdoor pavilion space — complete with a fire pit, Adirondack chairs, and hammocks — that seats 20. A modern speaker system and rustic chic decor add to the vibe, she says.
What’s Offered?
Parties are her specialty, including birthday parties, bridal parties, baby showers, retirement parties, and so much more. “We’re here to celebrate anything or just paint for fun,” she says.
Victoria says she’s been offering bachelorette and bridal parties since the start, adding that it made sense – wine, painting and fun in a group setting.
“Our studio is perfect for the wild bachelorette parties with champagne and dancing or a classy bridal soiree with traditional touches,” she asserts.
Have Bride, Will Party
Brides or bachelorette planners can choose any class she offers, whether it’s canvas, pet portraits, wine glasses, pint glasses, wood signs, wood ornaments, cookie plates, or something else altogether.
Any design for any class can be customized for no additional charge, so a special subject can be custom designed to serve as a loose guide for the group. This adds a special touch to a bridal event, making the experience even more unique and memorable for the bride.
What’s Involved?
Classes last from two to four hours and include everything needed: the canvas, paint, brushes, aprons, music, candid photography, water, ice, a full-size fridge, real wine glasses, towels, and everything else participants need for a great experience.
“The only thing class-goers need is an open mind, snacks and anything they plan to drink,” says Victoria, noting classes are always BYOB except for when they are restaurant or winery events.
The cost ranges from $27 to $60 per seat. Brides always participate for free.
The How-To
To book any party, simply visit the website or Facebook to contact the studio; or call/text. Visits to the studio are by appointment only.
Fun Facts: As an eco-friendly studio, they use only real glass, silverware, plates, and washable towels, as well as re-usable paint palettes. Empty wine bottles and corks are used as décor.
Victoria also shoots wedding and engagement photos, as well as designs invitations and “save-the-dates.” She can be a “one-stop shop” for several wedding needs.
Blush & Brushes Art Studio
484.388.1663
Email: vp@victoriaparisiart.com
Hours: Visit by appointment only
