Meet One of Our Business Support Clients...
Paint Party - Gary Palmer
Background
Gary Palmer is an artist with a diverse and extensive background in the creative arts. With a degree in Fashion, Design, and Marketing from London, Gary has honed his skills in various disciplines, including pottery, cake decorating, and illustration. For years, he applied his talents in roles for others, but he always had a desire to create something uniquely his own. That dream materialised when he launched his own business, Paint Party.
Reflecting on his journey, Gary says, “I’ve always wanted to create something that was truly mine, something that could bring joy and creativity to others. Paint Party has allowed me to do just that.”
The Business Idea
The concept for Paint Party was inspired by a similar event Gary attended in London. Recognising its potential, he envisioned bringing this creative experience to Belfast. Through careful research, Gary discovered that there was a gap in the market for such a product, particularly one that was accessible to people of all ages and artistic abilities.
“I realised there was nothing quite like this available here, and I knew it could be something special,” Gary explains. “The idea just clicked, and everything – the logo, the branding – it all fell into place naturally.”
Paint Party offers customisable paint party packs suitable for groups ranging from two to eleven people. These events are designed to last two hours, during which participants create their own pieces of art using the materials provided in the pack. Paint Party events are versatile, catering to various occasions such as hen parties, baby showers, and more.
Gary’s passion for art is evident in every aspect of Paint Party. He has received overwhelmingly positive feedback, especially from individuals who initially doubted their artistic abilities. “I’ve had so many people come to me and say, ‘I can’t draw,’ but by the end of the session, they’ve created something they’re genuinely proud of,” Gary shares. “That’s the most rewarding part for me – seeing people discover a new passion and confidence in their creativity.”
The Role of Ards Business Hub
Gary’s journey with Paint Party was significantly supported by Ards Business Hub through the Go Succeed Programme. Spotted at the job fair in Newtownards Blair Maine Leisure Centre, Go Succeed caught Gary’s eye as a resource that could help him take his fledgling business to the next level.
Through this programme, Gary has received 10 hours of mentoring from Anne, one of Ards Business Hub’s experienced Business Advisors. This support was instrumental in helping Gary refine his business plan and develop a two-year projection, allowing him to better understand the potential growth of Paint Party.
“The support from Ards Business Hub has been invaluable,” Gary notes. “Anne helped me see the bigger picture and gave me the tools I needed to really plan for the future. I now feel ready to take Paint Party to new heights.”
With these foundations in place, Gary is now ready to progress to the next phase of the Go Succeed Programme, focusing on developing a comprehensive marketing plan to further expand his business.
Conclusion
Gary Palmer’s Paint Party is a testament to the power of creativity and the importance of entrepreneurial support. Through his passion for art and the guidance provided by Ards Business Hub, Gary has been able to bring a unique and enjoyable experience to the people of Newtownards and beyond.
“Art has the power to transform something plain into something beautiful, and with Paint Party, you don’t need any particular skills to create something wonderful,” says Gary. “I’m excited to share this with others and see where this journey takes me.”
His story serves as an inspiration to others looking to turn their creative ideas into successful businesses.
For more information on Paint Party, visit www.paintparty.uk.
