Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie Haden.
Stephanie, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
As a child, I always knew early on that my life would be filled with art. Growing up my parents did not have a lot of financially, but they had a lot of love and hard work. And they knew I had a lot of love for art. And so they always believed in my artistic talents and that God would use my talent for a greater purpose. Once an adult and fresh out of college, I began my art education career as a public school art teacher and taught for years. However, as I began teaching, I felt that God wanted me to use my artistic talents and go into the community. As I researched, I began to notice a popular demand for your popular “sip and paint” place that was the “new” to do thing in town. However, I also noticed that there were not many affordable art programs geared for children in the southeast side of Houston where I spent most of my childhood growing up. When the time came, I packed up my public school teaching career temporarily that is and began my entrepreneurial journey along with a few colleagues. I knew that I wanted to create an art program geared for kids and specialize in mobile paint parties. However this was not easy. However, with a few believers, such as my husband who is also a business entrepreneur, motivation, and trial and error, Splash Kids began to grow each year into the company I always knew it was made to be.
Has it been a smooth road?
I think the hardest part was realizing that I was not going to get a steady pay check daily like clockwork. This became a reality when I received my last check as a public school teacher. It was at that point, I had to create my own efforts for pay through my business venture. Needless to say, I realized the value of a $1.00 pretty quick.
In addition, one of the hardest parts of being a “new” business is finding that “one” client that will risk the chance of believing in your service and being the first to experience it. I knew that I was a good art educator, I just needed someone else to believe it too.
However, once you get that first client, and then second client, and third, before you know it, clients are referring you. It’s at that moment you realize your business name finally has meaning.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Splash Kids Art mainly specializes in mobile kids paint parties. What makes us special is that we can set up a paint party event at your house or any approved location. We basically bring the party to you. A typical party includes step by step from an art instructor, art supplies, and fun. We also make sure to cover floors and tables. A plus side is that our artistic services can be altered to fit one’s party needs. For example maybe you would like to have a craft party rather than a paint party.
People are really amazed at how well kids focus on painting and enjoy it.
We also provide other artistic services through schools, and promotional events.
I think what sets us apart is that we have an awesome team of staff which we like to call the “A Team.” We work together really well. Also, we are really patient and kind. We treat everyone like family. And we are very experienced with working with all ages of children.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
I think Houston is a great place to start a business like Splash Kids. Houston is one of the top cities in the nation for art and many Houstonians appreciate artist’s efforts.
However as an art educator I strongly urge guardians to “encourage” your children in the arts. Please do not tell them to stop practicing art because there is “no money” in art or you will be a “starving artist.” My parents always encouraged me and showed me the many options in art. I strongly believe we should encourage all students to be more productive in the fine arts programs. We should always encourage our children to practice creativity and innovation. These days more and more careers want employees who think creative and are innovative. What better way than to encourage our children to start off young. I believe it was the encouraging mindset of my parents that help me be successful in art.
Contact Info:
- Website: Houstonart.webs.com
- Phone: 713-882-9878
- Email: splashkidsart@gmail.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SplashKIDSart/
Image Credit:
My bestie Cheryl Fort and A Team member Angela Smith
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
