Cocktails, Canvas and More - Alpine Arts Center

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in fine arts but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Lauren Merrill, owner of Alpine Arts Center, located in Edwards, CO, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Alpine Arts Center is a woman-owned, independent business started in the Vail Valley! We strive to provide artistic inspiration that touches people’s lives and positively influences our community and beyond. We offer art classes, camps, drop-in studio use, exhibits, public events, team building, and outreach programs to students of all ages.

Tell us about yourself

Opening Alpine Arts Center has been my dream ever since I was in high school. I grew up on Long Island, New York, and art was my passion all throughout my childhood. I distinctly remember sitting at the dinner table with my family, talking about “what I wanted to do when I grew up” and coming up with the idea to open an arts center someday.

Four years later, I graduated from The University of Michigan, School of Art and Design, and moved to Colorado to pursue an art career. It began with teaching and progressed into opening an arts center in Vail (Edwards).

Being a part of Alpine Arts Center and its evolution has been an incredible experience. I love seeing the studio buzzing with energy and creativity. No two days are alike, and it keeps things exciting and constantly evolving! Seeing students find their artistic talents and creativity is what motivates me every day.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Keeping the arts center flourishing for 12 years is my biggest accomplishment, especially seeing the business take-off during a recession and then continue to thrive during the pandemic. The support we have received from the community is what makes it possible to grow even during challenging times.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

One of the hardest things about being a business owner is finding a work/life balance. I am passionate about our programs, and often work takes over my nights and weekends. I love it, but I am still working on finding that balance!

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

1. Make sure you are passionate about your business and love it. You will spend a lot of time there!
2. Word of mouth is your best form of marketing. Make sure your customers are happy.
3. Outsource the aspects of your business that are challenging or not your strengths. This will leave you time for the parts that you love.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://alpineartscenter.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alpineartscenter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alpine_arts_center/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.