Pratt Street Originals: Painting With a Twist

Pratt Street is home to over a dozen businesses—from retail to restaurants, there’s a little something for everyone. If you’re looking to tap into your creative side and unwind with a cocktail, Painting with a Twist is just the place for you! We’re highlighting one of the many businesses that make Pratt Street so special. We caught up with owner Stephen Richmond to discuss all things paint, wine, and everything in between.

Q: Tell us about Painting with a Twist.

Painting with a Twist is Hartford’s premier paint and sip where anyone can make a reservation and join us for a fun evening of painting, music, and drinks.

Q: What inspired you to open up this business?

Outside of bars and restaurants, there isn’t much to do in the city that doesn’t revolve around loud music or food. If you want family fun, a date night, a girl’s night, or just to hang out and have a great conversation, you may have to go to a neighboring town. That’s why we opened up—to give people a reason to come downtown to relax and have fun.

Q: What makes Painting with a Twist special? What can people expect when they visit?

I believe what makes us special is being a Black-owned business. With it comes a lot of empathy and understanding. Because Hartford has such a diverse background of Black and minority residents, we can relate to our primary customer base. We don’t judge and we allow people to be themselves. We invite and welcome people with open arms, whether they’re a resident or a visitor. When people visit they can expect to have fun in a relaxing environment without the worries of the outside world.

Q: How long have you been on Pratt Street? What have you enjoyed the most about being on Pratt Street?

We have been on Pratt Street for four and a half years. The look and feel of the past charms of Hartford are what I enjoy most. Once you are on Pratt Street, it almost feels as if everything has slowed down and life is manageable again.

Q: What drew you to open your business on Pratt Street?

The aesthetic of small shops and brick streets and buildings, as well as the location to large corporations like Travelers and Hartford Hospital. Before the pandemic, 60% of our business was corporate.

Q: What do you enjoy the most about your community involvement?

The community itself—we love Hartford! We also love seeing the familiar faces of returning patrons and having our voices heard on community issues.

Q: What can we expect to see from you in the future?

More paint and more fun through outdoor events along Pratt Street as well as in other locations like Bushnell Park, Adrienne’s Landing, the Yard Goats baseball stadium, etc. We’re really excited to get out and connect with the community this year.

Painting with a Twist has a variety of paintings and classes to choose from. Simply sign up for a class in advance to reserve your seat and arrive 10 minutes before the class scheduled start time. You’ll be provided with all your paint supplies and an apron. There is a full bar with a variety of local beer, wine, and canned cocktails to choose from as well as non-alcoholic beverages available for purchase.

Ready to get your paint on? Browse upcoming events and sign up for classes here.

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