As Cliff mentioned, I have been doing these since early summer. So far I would rate them as a success. As with any "add on" I consider it has to drive the custom framing side of thd business. Took the same approach with the digital printing. If it doesnt drive the custom side, I am not interested.
So with that said, I saw this as an oppotunity to increase awareness of my framing business and maybe make enough money to cover the costs plus a few bucks. I had tried the gallery idea in several different forms over the years and each attempt yeilded the same crapy results. I see this as having a somewhat limited life span so I am really focused on the art classes. I think will be viable forever.
As for our Paint & Wine Nights we have kept them simple. We provide the instruction, materials and the space (as well as a nice chocolate at each easel). The rest is up to the guests. They can bring any food and drink they want. Basically, I am providing a location for a get together.
You would think that selling them all frames when they are done is a no brainer... ya, well it is not as easy as you might think. I find that if one person buys one, then several will. Yet, more often then not, no frames are sold. (Puzzles me) It has however aceived the major goal and that is to drive the custom business. Many of the people who came for P&W have been back as first time framing customers.
... gotta take the kids to school.... will share more later.
