Paint and Sip Business Proposed for Reading

Reading resident and owner of Atlantic Framing Judy Barolak recently proposed a paint and sip business to the selectmen. The business would be a studio for painting classes where participants can enjoy a glass of wine or beer.

Barolak recently went to a paint and sip class and that is where she "got the bug" and decided she wanted to open her own studio in Reading. 

Town Manager Bob LeLacheur said that Town Counsel has to be consulted before Barolak is able to move forward. Then "the town will need to hold a public hearing for the liquor license," he said.

"I am hoping to be able to do that by late July," LeLacheur told Patch.

Barolak has the Haven and Main Street areas in mind for the studio, but does not have a location yet. She would like the space to be on "street level" so residents will be able to see attendants sitting in front of an easel painting at night.

Each class will paint a different "pre-determined painting." The average price for a class is about $35, Barolak said.

"Right now it is really in the very beginning stages," Barolak said.

It's a "really fun concept,” she told Patch. Usually women ages 25 to 65 are the "primary clientele." People like to utilize the classes for a girls night out, bachelorette party, birthday party and more.

"I'm excited, but I'm not going to get excited until legal counsel looks at it," Barolak said.

Barolak has business experience as she owns Atlantic Framing with her husband. She also has an art background, she said.