By: Danielle Kearns
Checking in on you all on day...what is this? 87 of quarantine, right?  Well, it has certainly been an interesting time of late. Let us tell you - we miss you guys! The studios have been way too quiet recently and, although we know it's the right thing to do right now, it has not been easy on us as business or personally. We have had to adapt all of our operations, completely remodel our website, and bring our staffing down to the bare minimum. Everything has changed from our hours of operation, to ordering procedures, to stocking shelves, to responding to emails, to rescheduling and revamping classes. It has felt chaotic at times, but we have felt and appreciate all the love and support we have received. It means the world to us that, despite the ever-changing times and financial struggle that so many people are dealing with right now, that people are still CHOOSING to shop with us. Please know that every online purchase made goes to continue to support this small business, cover payroll, afford rent, and ensure that our studio doors will remain open on the other side of this health crisis and global economic decline. Here are some ways you can continue to support our small business during this time remotely. And keep in mind, many of these apply to small businesses that are struggling all over the place right now that could really use our support.

1. Like, Follow, Share, + Comment on Social Media Posts 
I'm starting off with arguably one of the simplest ways to support us right now - and it happens to be FREE. We are staying as active as ever on Facebook and Instagram since it's our only way to interact with you all these days, so let us know you're there and watching. If you're following along in a LIVE class, send us a wave and comment from where you're watching from. If you've gotten one of our "to go kits," please, show us your family's special time painting them together. If you're drinking your morning cup of coffee in a mug you painted with us years ago, let us see it. Snap a picture and TAG US. It is completely free to share our posts, keep up with a conversation, and interact with us. It also helps other people in the community see what we're all about and reach a larger audience. We're in this together even though we're apart.
    The Claypen's Facebook + Instagram 
    The Firestone's Facebook + Instagram
    Our YouTube Channel (Has pottery painting techniques!) 
    Our Pinterest Board (Even more inspiration!) 
    You can even find us on LinkedIn | The Claypen | The Firestone 

2. Classes + Reservation Refunds
Small businesses are hurting considerably right now, especially those whose entire business model is based on customer service and people physically entering their space. We host so many birthdays, team building events, meetings, gatherings, happy hours, special occasions, and our own classes and workshops. For so many people, our events may be the whole reason they know who we are in the first place. We invest so much of our time, energy, and expenses into running educational, interactive, and fun programming. But, since we have no choice but to close our doors to the public for now, we can't have those events and have had to reschedule and postpone literally everything. With that comes loads of refund requests. In most cases, small businesses like ours have already purchased all of the resources and materials for events weeks or even months in advance. Please, please, please know that we understand that money is tight right now, but requesting refunds will only further cripple a business that is already struggling. In our case, our policy is a credit. We will honor registrations and reschedule classes when we can safely can do. Class credit codes will be transferable when classes can be reinstated or can be put towards a to-go kit or virtual class if you call the studio. 

3. Gift Cards
This soon shall pass. And when it does, the money spent towards gift cards purchased NOW will be considered an investment in the company so, we too, will be there when this passes. We offer physical gift cards that can be purchased over the phone with a credit card and mailed (free of charge) anywhere as well as e-gift cards that can be purchased right on our website. Gift cards can be used at either studio location as well as our cafe. 

4. Merchandise/Apparel 
If you own some, wear it. Take a selfie. Tag us. Be our motivation. Give us a boost and shout us out because, most of all, we miss the feeling of a community of creativity. And man, our stuff is damn cute! If you don't own any, consider buying some. Who couldn't use a cozy (and clean) hoodie right about now? You've probably been wearing the same one for weeks in quarantine.
    The Claypen's merch shop 
    The Firestone's merch shop

5. DIY To-Go Kits
We have added so many options right onto our websites and are updating them (literally) all the time. Keep checking in for more pre-packaged assortments, but keep in mind, our FULL inventory is also posted, so you can create whatever pack-up you like. We have options for canvas, wood/board signs, pottery, and brush lettering. Surf the website and build your own. You can even pick your own pottery paint colors now! 
    The Claypen's online store:  pre-packaged to go kits OR build your own
    The Firestone's online store:  pre-packaged to go kits OR build your own

6. Virtual Classes 
In case you miss us as much as we miss you, we have also launched our virtual class calendar which brings our staff right into the comfort of your house from either their house or the studio. We started off with doing some free Facebook Lives, but have gotten a little more technologically savvy and now can cross-stream on Zoom and Facebook on BOTH of our business pages. AND we have created "class pack kits" which are the perfect companion to our virtual classes BECAUSE they come with everything you need to do the class right along with us. All of the materials are pre-assembled for you so you have what you need to complete the project. Purchase ahead online and pick-up your class packs curbside safely and hassle-free. This class page will continue to be updated, so keep an eye on it! 
     Virtual Classes: Calendar + Class Kits

By: Danielle Kearns 
As we are expanding, we want you to get to know us a little better. The heart of The Claypen is a staff who love coming to work, creating something special, and interacting with our customers. People often remark on the beautiful sample pieces decorating our studio and storefront, so we'd love to start by our highlighting our very talented artists who are responsible for most of our samples and commissioned pieces.

lindsey schmucker
Lindsey is a West Hartford local and first heard of The Claypen when she attended a birthday party here as a child. She's now been a Custom Artist here for almost 2 years, while simultaneously studying AP Studio Art with a concentration in acrylic painting at Hall High School, where she recently graduated. Her style utilizes vibrant colors and experimentation in both the abstract and realistic. When painting pottery, she prefers a more minimalistic approach and loves playing around with fonts and calligraphy. Art has always been a favorite subject and hobby for her. Lindsey will be attending FSU in the Fall and hopes to be accepted into the Interior Design Major in the Fine Arts College. ​

gleidymar rivera
​Gleidymar is the newest member of our artist team. She is inspired by botanicals and keeps herself busy working both at the claypen, local farmers markets, and keeping up with her online Etsy shop. She has a Studio Art minor with a concentration in ceramics from Wheelock College. She did two independent studies there to enrich herself further into the arts. Her online shop highlights hand embroidered patches and totes. She has assimilated quickly into life at The Claypen, and we couldn't be happier to have her aboard.

Shop Gleidymar's Etsy Shop 
​​Explore Gleidymar's Instagram ​

These are some of Gleidymar's favorite pieces she's painted so far at The Claypen. We have to say, we love them too! 

By: Danielle Kearns
We were proud to be donors for this year's Cruisin' on Main Street - an annual event that brings Manchester together for the combined love of cars and community. We were thrilled to be a part of this event and get to meet some of you in person to chat about our upcoming recent announcement about The Firestone opening this Fall.

It is one of the oldest car shows of its kind in the Northeast, which has drawn in over 400,000 spectators since 2001. Our table highlighted some of our art mediums that will be available on a walk-in basis with the classic Cruisin' logo. Attendees were invited to come up and ask about our new space and enter to win one of these awesome pieces of art. 

Congrats to our raffle winners!!!
​
Fused Glass - Megan Gagnon
Ceramic Platter - Alan Bieber
Cruisin' Linoleum Stamp - Steve Bradley
Wood Sign - Linda Zimmerman
Canvas Painting - Tricia Enderli

Who We Are
We are proud to announce our, sister location to The Claypen, West Hartford family: The Firestone | art studio + café, which will be located in Manchester, CT.
​
The Claypen has been a fixture of West Hartford Center for over 20 years. With many customers coming from east of the river, we’ve had requests to have an option closer to home as well as a business need for a larger space to accommodate parties and events. We have been working behind the scenes for quite some time to find the perfect location to meet all these needs and are ready to make the official announcement.

The Firestone | Art Studio + Café will open Fall 2019. We will be located right on Main Street in Manchester, CT, an area that is dedicated to growth and development and keeping its community at the focus. 1115 Main Street has a long history in the Manchester community and we’d like to respect and honor that. Pinewood Furniture was run and operated by the Ed Firestone, who has been a fixture on Main Street for over 24 years. Ed Firestone worked with us closely to make this exchange go as smoothly as possible and is onto his well-deserved retirement. We appreciate all of his cooperation on this journey  and are excited to mirror his commitment to Manchester and the community.

What We Offer
The art studio at The Firestone will offer DIY projects, available on a walk-in basis as well as a variety of events. Our studio will be open 9am-9pm daily. During our open studio hours, you can create your own project, such as:

• Pottery Painting
• Glass Fusing
• Canvas Painting
• Board Art (think painting on reclaimed wood)

We will continue to expand our artistic offerings to meet customer needs. Feel free to reach out to us with specific ideas - we would love to hear them! Stay tuned to hear updates on our Wet Clay room - which we expect to open early 2020.
We will continue to offer workshops in both locations. The Firestone will utilize our party/meeting space to offer additional classes and educational opportunities. This party space will also be available for private parties, team building events and more. 
In addition to the DIY arts, we will also have a café on site! Our emphasis in the café will be good food, sourced locally. We are proud to be teaming up with CT based vendors to provide our ingredients and beverage options, including:

• Giv Coffee Roasters | Canton, CT
• Hosmer Mountain Soda | Manchester, CT
• Shady Glen Ice Cream | Manchester, CT
• Cato Corner Cheese | Colchester, CT

Why Manchester?
Manchester, CT -- especially the downtown area -- is a thriving area for small businesses. We are fond of their atmosphere, proximity to other small businesses, its active community, and its plans for development and growth. It’s no surprise that Manchester has been voted Money Magazine’s #1 Place to live in Connecticut 2018!  We have had requests for years to have something on the other side of the river available for customers who were often making the trek out to see us with small children and wanted to have something more convenient to them. Manchester is that perfect location.

Manchester is committed to long term growth. Their newest initiative, Downtown 2020 , exemplifies this commitment. We are proud to say The Firestone will be the first project to receive funds from the Manchester Downtown Investment Fund Loan Program. The Town’s Board of Directors established the program earlier this year to promote economic development by partnering with property owners to address contemporary code and access requirements that may serve as financial barriers for transformative property development projects.

Learn More
​Want to stay up to date with The Firestone project?
Connect with us on

• Facebook @thefirestonect
• Instagram @thefirestonect
• Online | www.thefirestonect.com

​
We know you have questions! Please leave your questions + comments below for us to get you ready for this exciting new venture and your new favorite spot! 

By: Danielle Kearns    
There's a new small business in WeHa Center. Welcome b. kind to Farmington Avenue, a wellness boutique + collaborative space that focuses on organic products that will benefit your body, mind, and spirit. The space is warm and welcoming, filled with the romantic aromas of essential oils and bath bombs.

Although they've only been around for a few weeks, we have already had our first collaboration with them! Last week, they co-hosted a mandala night with us at our location, providing the DIY essential oil bar and wellness knowledge.

Their stock ranges from home goods, beauty products, chocolates, mixers, clothing, bags, candles, oils, and more. (Let me tell you, I've been using their migraine sleep mask most nights of the week, headache or not.)

And, going forward, if you come to paint at the claypen and we're on waitlist, you will be given a 10% off coupon to use across the street while you wait. How cool is that!? 

​We'll also be doing collaborative events in the b. kind space! If you have any questions, drop them in the comments below! 

By: Danielle Kearns 
Oh. My. Coffee. Never have I ever done a formal coffee tasting. I am pretty basic when it comes to my morning cup. I'll take it light and sweet, flavored and sugary, or even topped with whipped cream or a caramel drizzle. Sure, I like the taste of coffee, but I would pretty much need to be in a bind to take it black. However, I fully realize that the only way to truly know what makes each bean and style unique is to try it straight up! And it doesn't hurt to know the story behind the bean. I have a new found appreciation for coffee.

Did you know that a coffee bean actually derives from a cherry? There are multiple layers that make up the science of the coffee plant's lifespan, but it blew my mind to learn everything that goes into just harvesting the bean itself under all those layers.

​I owe all this new found knowledge to Jeff Brooks, who has dedicated the past 8 years of his life to the free and fair coffee trade business. In 2011, he started this project, along with his wife Emily, and started giv coffee, craft roastery + cafe. 

If you don't know, giv actually provides wholesale coffee beans to many of your favorite coffee shops around the state. Giv sources their beans from farmers who will benefit from this relationship. Farms are chosen with excellence and standard in mind -- as well as the farmer himself. Giv only seeks fairly traded beans and have worked out fair prices for crops, giving back a portion of sales back to the farms themselves for continual growth and success. What a rockstar mission! 

Beans are delivered "green" and batch roasted in house. They are then dispersed across the state to other coffee shops and served in their Canton location. So how does it taste?

​Jeff offered us a tasting to try each of their currently offered styles. There are currently around 8 styles, each named after the farmer from which the bean derived. Tasting by "cupping" allows you to taste and try the coffee in its purest form without all the extras. You are experiencing something that's been brewed to the perfect rate and standard. I took home a bag of Leonardo Rosero. YUM!

For continued reading, check out their list of the top coffee spots in Connecticut, published this past week on Sprudge. Did your favorite make the list? Comment below with your favorite coffee spots in the state.

By: Danielle Kearns
I hope you've enjoyed some Hosmer Mountain Soda in your time, but if you haven't, allow me to make it your next obsession. They are my personal favorite seltzer and soda and are only made better since they're LOCAL and they have a phenomenal sustainability plan, which is one of my obsessions.

Originally established in 1912, Hosmer set the precedent for home-delivery service for the state with original drinks and recipes with "in-house blends" unique to them. They have stayed a consistent asset, making their way into restaurants, cafes, breweries, movie theaters, and now... our studio! In the coming months, we will be launching our partnership with Hosmer, which we're so excited about as we're seltzer kind of people. Look out for posts and update on social media. We are really excited about this one.     

​All of Hosmer's bottles can be returned directly to either of their locations, completely sterilized, and then reused. I go every 2 months to pick out my flavor, fill my crates, and swap out my old bottles. The process is quick, easy, and the best alternative to traditional recycling, which makes it even better for the environment. The seltzers are the perfect bubbly companion for all your summer cocktails. (My favorite is the lemon-lime.) The soda is phenomenal on its own. (You've got to try the black cherry immediately!)
​
Until then, visit Hosmer at one of their locations to stock up for all your summer needs: 

Manchester 
15 Spencer Street
Manchester, CT 06040
Phone: 860-643-6923

Willimantic 
217 Mountain Street
Willimantic, CT 06226
Phone: 860-423-1555