Little Black Dog Studios
by Beth Elam
Kids Painting Parties
Fun Kids Painting Parties on the North Shore
About me:
I grew up in Indiana, near scenic Lake Michigan, and moved out East to beautiful New England almost 20 years ago. I started my undergrad at Ball State University with an emphasis in Art, and ended up in New England with a Masters in Education, specifically servicing children with autism. As a certified teacher, I have 15 years experience teaching students in both private and public schools. I got married 5 years ago right on Ocean Drive in Gloucester, Massachusetts, and now have 2 beautiful children 1.5 and 3.5 years old with my husband Chris. Since our youngest was born, I’ve been home full time with the kids. While I enjoy my time home with the kids, I decided to invest some time in my other passion, painting.
Business inspirations:
My idea to have painting parties for kids came from one of my very talented and inspiring sisters. Together, with our 5 other siblings, we have 20 nieces and nephews (10 months-21 years old). That's over 150 birthday parties in total! Although the parties have been great, we were surprised that there haven’t been many parties that involve the kids painting with their friends. And, as simple as that, with my sister - although we're in two different states - decided it would be fun to have painting parties exclusively for your children and their friends.
Painting inspirations:
It gives me great joy to paint with my own kids as well as other children! My ideas of paintings are frequently inspired by my articulate, adorable three year old daughter who loves to learn about new things through reading and activities. She draws my attention to beautiful flowers she sees outside, pictures in books and to her creative imagination. I haven’t been able to paint her imaginary friend, “Sushi-Lucy” to her description yet, but I’m sure she will one day. My paintings are also inspired by places that we’ve been and pictures we’ve taken in scenic New England. After some practice, I’ve been able pull out the simple details that can make it easy for children of all ages to paint. I have some samples, but will be further inspired by ideas from your little ones too.
Personalized touch:
In addition to my passion for teaching and painting, I love animals. I had a small little black dog, Forest. He joined me in my move to New England from Indiana and on many outdoor adventures. I like to keep his spirit alive by including him in all of my paintings. With the tiniest brush and a steady hand, I paint his body, head, 4 legs and fluffy tail in all my pictures. It’s a staple of my paintings that I like to continue to include in other paintings.
What a painting party will look like:
I am a mobile business, and will bring my Mary Poppins bag of supplies to your home. I charge $20 per child (minimum of 5 children), and it will include the following:
- A free consultation prior to the party to come up with a theme
- All of the materials (11x14 canvases, paintbrushes, paints, disposable table clothes, palettes, smocks)
- Set up/clean up
- A 2-hour event which includes painting time and a break in between to move, allow the background to dry and snack, if needed (snacks not included).
- Optional: An centerpiece individualized to the theme for an additional fee
- Each child will leave with a personal masterpiece - the perfect party favor!
Email me for more information and to book your party at beth@littleblackdogstudios.com. Dates are limited, so booking in advance is highly encouraged.
