Behind the Easel: What It’s Really Like Running a Paint & Sip Studio – Part 3
The Afterparty You Didn’t See — Clean-Up, Checkout, and Closing Time
The music is still playing. The walls are lined with fresh artwork. The last round of laughter echoes out the door as guests head home, paintings in hand. But while the party might be over for them, for us at Stroke of Genius, it’s just the beginning of a whole new phase: the clean-up.
Running a paint and sip studio in downtown Waukesha means we’re not only artists and entertainers — we’re also bartenders, janitors, and supply managers. Here’s what happens after the lights dim and the studio empties out.
Group Photos & Goodbyes
We wrap every class with a group photo — it’s a fun way to capture the night and celebrate everyone’s finished masterpiece. These pictures go up on our social media and often get shared by guests, helping more people discover us.
Then comes checkout. For classes with walk-ins or purchases during the night (extra drinks, tips, etc.), we handle the payments, answer last-minute questions, and send guests out the door smiling. But once the last person leaves, it’s time to face the mess.
The Great Brush Wash of Waukesha
There is always a mountain of brushes. Dozens of them.
Every brush has to be washed thoroughly — no shortcuts, or they get stiff and ruined. There are also water cups to dump, palettes to clean or throw away, smocks and aprons to hang, and tables to wipe down. It’s not glamorous, but it’s necessary. And weirdly satisfying when it’s done.
We also put away easels, sweep up any spilled paint or glitter (yes, it happens), and check for anything left behind.
Restocking & Reorganizing
Once the mess is gone, it’s time to prep for the next class — even if it’s not for a few days. We check our inventory:
Restocking paints in their squeeze bottles
Refilling drink coolers
Replacing paper towels, cups, and brushes
Making sure every seat is reset and spotless
We also review the bar — restocking wine, beer, soda, and mixers — and count the cash drawer.
Posting & Promoting
Back at the computer, we post the night’s photos to social media and tag any guests who wanted to be included. Sometimes we’ll tease the next class, remind people of upcoming events, or highlight a painting they can sign up for.
Even when the studio is empty, we’re still working to keep our little business visible.
Lights Off, Doors Locked — Until Next Time
Finally, we turn off the lights, lock up, and step out into downtown Waukesha — often tired, but usually smiling.
Because even though the work doesn’t stop when the guests leave, it’s worth it. We get to create a space where people unplug, unwind, and create something beautiful. And that’s not nothing.
🖌️ Thanks for following along our 3-part behind-the-scenes series!
Want to experience it all firsthand? Grab a drink, pick up a brush, and join us at Stroke of Genius.
https://paintwinestudio.com/
We’ll take care of the rest.