
“Shanita’s goal was to provide the startup community access to business and networks while drinking coffee,” Amanda shares with ESSENCE. Ready to get your paint on? Browse upcoming events and sign up for classes here.What made you decide to start Sip & Sonder?
#Sip and paint near me black owned full
There is a full bar with a variety of local beer, wine, and canned cocktails to choose from as well as non-alcoholic beverages available for purchase. You’ll be provided with all your paint supplies and an apron. Simply sign up for a class in advance to reserve your seat and arrive 10 minutes before the class scheduled start time.

Painting with a Twist has a variety of paintings and classes to choose from. We’re really excited to get out and connect with the community this year. More paint and more fun through outdoor events along Pratt Street as well as in other locations like Bushnell Park, Adrienne’s Landing, the Yard Goats baseball stadium, etc. Q: What can we expect to see from you in the future? The community itself-we love Hartford! We also love seeing the familiar faces of returning patrons and having our voices heard on community issues. Q: What do you enjoy the most about your community involvement? Before the pandemic, 60% of our business was corporate. The aesthetic of small shops and brick streets and buildings, as well as the location to large corporations like Travelers and Hartford Hospital. Q: What drew you to open your business on Pratt Street? Once you are on Pratt Street, it almost feels as if everything has slowed down and life is manageable again. The look and feel of the past charms of Hartford are what I enjoy most. We have been on Pratt Street for four and a half years. Q: How long have you been on Pratt Street? What have you enjoyed the most about being on Pratt Street? When people visit they can expect to have fun in a relaxing environment without the worries of the outside world. We invite and welcome people with open arms, whether they’re a resident or a visitor.

We don’t judge and we allow people to be themselves. Because Hartford has such a diverse background of Black and minority residents, we can relate to our primary customer base. With it comes a lot of empathy and understanding. I believe what makes us special is being a Black-owned business. Q: What makes Painting with a Twist special? What can people expect when they visit? That’s why we opened up-to give people a reason to come downtown to relax and have fun. If you want family fun, a date night, a girl’s night, or just to hang out and have a great conversation, you may have to go to a neighboring town. Outside of bars and restaurants, there isn’t much to do in the city that doesn’t revolve around loud music or food. Q: What inspired you to open up this business? Painting with a Twist is Hartford’s premier paint and sip where anyone can make a reservation and join us for a fun evening of painting, music, and drinks.

We caught up with owner Stephen Richmond to discuss all things paint, wine, and everything in between. If you’re looking to tap into your creative side and unwind with a cocktail, Painting with a Twist is just the place for you! We’re highlighting one of the many businesses that make Pratt Street so special. Pratt Street is home to over a dozen businesses-from retail to restaurants, there’s a little something for everyone.
