What to Expect
You show up, grab a glass of wine (usually included or available to buy), and an instructor walks the group through painting a specific image step by step. Classes are typically 2 hours and end with everyone holding up their finished canvas. Some look pretty good. Some look like abstract art. Either way, you both have something to take home.
What You'll Experience:
- ✦Step-by-step guided painting with a live instructor
- ✦Wine, cocktails, or mocktails usually available throughout
- ✦All supplies provided—canvas, brushes, paint, apron
- ✦Small enough group that it still feels like your own evening
- ✦You leave with actual art to take home
The Atmosphere
Casual and social. Most paint and sip venues are set up like a bar or lounge with long communal tables. There's background music, conversation, and light instruction. The alcohol helps everyone relax into the process without overthinking their technique.
Types to Try
Paint and sip comes in a few different formats—pick the one that fits your night.
Group Class at a Venue
The classic format: you book two spots at a scheduled class, show up, and paint alongside other couples and groups. Usually 10-20 people in the room. The social energy is good, and watching everyone else's interpretations is half the fun. Most venues serve wine, beer, or cocktails throughout.
Private Couples Session
Some studios offer private bookings just for the two of you—same instructor, same setup, but no one else in the room. More expensive, but the pace is entirely yours. Good for anniversaries or if you both prefer a quieter, more intimate setting.
At-Home Paint and Sip Kit
Order a paint and sip kit online, follow along with a YouTube tutorial or guided video, and do the whole thing in your living room. Way cheaper, and you can wear pajamas. You lose the venue atmosphere but gain the flexibility to go at your own pace and actually pause when needed.
Paint and Sip with a Twist
Some venues do themed nights—holiday paintings, painting pets from photos, or painting portraits of each other. The twist gives you an extra layer of fun beyond just following the instructor's demo. Check the upcoming event calendar at local venues for these.
How to Pick the Right Class
The instructor and the vibe of the venue matter more than the specific painting you'll be doing. A good class is relaxed and encouraging; a bad one feels like you're being graded.
Look For:
- ✓Read reviews specifically about the instructor—are they fun and patient?
- ✓Check what drinks are included vs. extra cost
- ✓Look at photos of past paintings to see if the subject matter appeals to you
- ✓See if they offer themed nights (pets, seasons, custom portraits)
- ✓Check cancellation policy in case plans change
⚠ Red Flags:
- •Very rigid instruction where you can't deviate at all
- •Instructors who rush through steps without checking if everyone's keeping up
- •Drinks that are overpriced or barely available
- •Terrible ventilation—paint fumes in a closed room get old fast
Booking Tips
Weekend evening classes fill up fast—book at least a week ahead. Weeknight classes are easier to get into and often a bit quieter, which some couples prefer. Look for Friday night sessions if you want weekend energy without weekend crowds.
Booking Tips:
- →Book in advance—popular classes sell out
- →Check what painting is on the schedule before booking if it matters to you
- →Arrive 10-15 minutes early to get settled and pick your seats
- →Sit next to each other so you can actually compare your progress
💡 Budget Hacks:
- •Weeknight classes are usually cheaper than weekend ones
- •Check Groupon or the venue's own deals page for first-timer discounts
- •At-home kits cost a fraction of a class and work well as a backup
- •Some venues do BYOB—bring your own wine and only pay for the class
What to Wear & Bring
What to Wear:
Something you don't mind getting paint on—aprons are usually provided but splatters happen. Casual is perfect. You're not trying to impress anyone; you're there to get paint on your hands and laugh about it.
Bring:
- ✦An open attitude about being bad at painting
- ✦Cash or card for extra drinks if they're not included
- ✦Something to carry your wet canvas home (ask if they provide bags)
Leave at Home:
- •Nice clothes that you'd be upset to ruin
- •High expectations for your finished product
- •Your competitive side—this is not that kind of date
Cost & Duration
Typical Duration
2-2.5 hours
Most classes run about 2 hours of painting with built-in breaks. Add travel time and you're looking at a solid 3-hour evening. Some venues let you linger after for drinks even when the painting is done.
Cost Notes
Group classes usually include the canvas and supplies; drinks may or may not be included. Private sessions cost significantly more but give you exclusive time. At-home kits are the cheapest option by far.
At-home paint and sip kit with supplies and a free online tutorial. Bring your own wine. Cheapest way to do the activity.
Private couples session at a studio with drinks included. Your own pace, your own space, zero strangers.
Pro Tips
Don't stress about making it look like the instructor's version. The divergence is where all the personality shows up.
Compare your paintings throughout the class, not just at the end. The mid-point "what even is this?" stage is usually the funniest.
Take a photo of both paintings together before you leave. Side-by-side shots make great memories.
If wine isn't your thing, ask about non-alcoholic options—most venues have them even if they're not advertised up front.
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