What started as a creative outlet during one of life’s most challenging times has grown into nearly 13 years of bringing people together through art, friendship, and shared experiences.
While living in Colorado and battling breast cancer, Tara Tepley discovered painting as a therapeutic way to express herself and find joy during a difficult time. She never imagined that picking up a paintbrush would eventually lead to owning her own business, but on December 20, 2013, The Paint Factory welcomed its first painting class.
Today, The Paint Factory is an instructional painting studio where Tara and her team guide participants step by step through creating their own masterpieces. But for Tara, it’s always been about much more than painting.
Over the years, she’s watched customers become friends and even family. Some return multiple times a year, including one very dedicated “Addicted Painter” who has attended more than 600 classes! What began as a business idea that some questioned has become a place where people come together, try something new, and make lasting memories.
Tara is especially grateful for the support she’s received from the Hutchinson community and the relationships she’s built with other local businesses. She believes that small businesses are stronger when they support one another rather than compete, and she’s had the opportunity to collaborate with many throughout the years.
Like many business owners, Tara has learned the importance of being creative, adaptable, and willing to think outside the box. When The Paint Factory had to close its doors temporarily in 2020, she had to quickly find new ways to connect with customers and keep the business going. That experience sparked an idea she’d still love to expand upon: creating online painting tutorials for people who can’t visit the studio in person or live farther away.
One of Tara’s proudest accomplishments is finding ways to give back to the community that has supported her.
Nine years ago, Tara started Project Paint, a special Christmas tradition for local families who have experienced a difficult year. Families are invited to enjoy a painting experience at no cost, and through partnerships with other local businesses, they receive blessing baskets filled with gift cards for activities and experiences they can enjoy throughout the year.
For Tara, it’s about giving families the opportunity to spend time together and make memories without the added worry of financial burdens.
Through nearly 13 years of business ownership, Tara has learned that success isn’t just about keeping the doors open. It’s about continuing to grow, finding new ways to connect with people, and recognizing the impact even a two-hour painting class can have on someone’s life.
Her advice to other women thinking about starting or growing a business?
“Be strong and courageous…you can do this. If you are passionate about something, I believe you can make it into a career and others will feel your passion.”
And when asked about her next big goal, Tara’s answer was a reminder that sometimes growth isn’t just about business.
With her family facing some recent health challenges, she’s focused on being present, appreciating each day, and finding joy in the time she has with loved ones and the work she gets to do. Her faith continues to guide her, and she doesn’t take for granted the opportunity to do something she loves.
During National Women’s Small Business Month, we’re proud to recognize Tara for the business she’s built, the relationships she’s created, and the many ways she continues to give back to our community.
