Meet Wendy Salazar | Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Wendy Salazar and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Wendy, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Almost 9 years ago my husband and I moved from Houston back to my home town, Decatur. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do and my husband, Gabe suggested painting parties. I had worked part time at an art studio in Houston and since there wasn’t anything like that in Wise County, we decided it was the perfect job. Being mobile, the art studio experience comes to you and allows you the comfort of having fun in your home, work, church or business. I had a teacher once say that if you find a job you like, you’ll never work a day in your life and it’s true!

What should our readers know about your business?
When I started the mobile painting parties I knew I needed to decide if I wanted to focus on art instruction or the entertainment side. I want everyone to learn a little while they’re painting but more importantly, I want them to enjoy a few hours with friends or family and have fun. My favorite is hearing someone say at the end of the party, “I can’t believe I made that!”

In the beginning, getting my name out there meant long days of setting up at craft fairs and local events. Word traveled fast and with the help of Facebook and Instagram, the schedule started filling up. I even have a contract with Ft.Sill military base and we’re up there once a month.

2020 was difficult as well but being mobile and doing private parties helped because we were able to still go and paint with people who were already around each other.

When I started, we painted on canvas and over the years now offer wood planks, canvas tote bags, stemless wine glasses and wooden door hangers. I’m also working on adding a new item soon!

I love meeting people, seeing new places and growing friendships. I cannot think of a better way than having a painting party.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Oh this is hard because there are so many amazing places nearby! For food, we’d go to Primo’s Taqueria, Whistle Stop Cafe and Casa Torres. We’d hit up Blessed Bru coffee shop in nearby Bridgeport and stop by Locality, the local cocktail bar. We’d take a yoga class with alpacas class out at Harmony Ranch Alpacas, stop by Harper & Riley’s Chocolate Factory to make some custom chocolates and my favorite would be visiting our gorgeous courthouse!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My family and best friend have supported this idea from day one and been involved from helping get supplies to setting up at vendor events and even hanging out while promoting my business at local fairs and festivals.

Instagram: @wendysmobilepaintingparties

Facebook: wendysmobilepaintingparties