132 – Arts and Carafes with Tanya Ruffin of Create Studios

With a BFA in Fine Arts and MA in Art History, Tanya ended up with a career in Higher Education in the IT department! Desperate for some art in her life, about 6 years ago she opened teaching and event facility called Create Studios. She describes it as an Arts and Carafes space because people can bring a carafe of wine to class, if they so desire. Her goal is to educate people in a way that, despite their background and experience, they can do what they set their mind to. The classes she teaches (on whatever topic – computers or arts) are designed to educate without intimidation.

The Create Studios Story

What sparked the initial idea. [3:26] Tanya’s first studio space. [5:28] Balancing your creative sideline passion with a full time job. [8:11] The value of being on the path of The Art Hop. [26:10] Class scheduling. A description of Tanya’s creative day. [27:24]

Candle Flickering Moments

Why Tanya had to move studios and what she learned. [17:26] The Thousand Year Flood and it’s affect on business. [20:46]

Business Building Insights

Next steps after signing a lease. [7:24] The Groupon experience. [9:50], [29:15] You are responsible for the mood you create in your classroom or event. [13:23] A negative creative experience. [14:53] The value of investing in yourself. [22:07] How to turn things around through reframing your message. [24:50] Emails role for getting repeat students. [28:23] Tanya’s advice to those considering their own business. [34:33]

Valuable Resource

AFCI – Association for Craft Industry [32:02]

Productivity/Lifestyle Tool

Event Bright – Promote your event and sell tickets. [29:56]

Contact Links

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