By Mary Ekene

Painter’s Paradise is a social venue for friends and families to come paint and be creative through art.   Mary Ekene and Ericka Boutte wanted a place in Orange for people to come have fun and spend time with their loved ones.

“I personally got tired of hearing people say there is nothing to do in Orange. I brainstormed ideas with one of my best friends and we decided to open Painter’s Paradise.” I said to myself. Ericka Boutte is from Franklin, LA and we have been friends for about 10 years.

I would always hear people say do not go into business with your friends or family, but I made an exception.   There are two people on this earth I would go into business with and she is one of them.

Apart from being one of my best friends, Ericka “Buffy” Boutte is family. I can trust her, she is honest, and she is good with money and is creative. All of the things I wanted in a business partner.

For 10 years, this woman has been there for me and my children, so when the opportunity presented itself to go into business together, I jumped at the chance.

We both are very excited about this venture and our Grand Opening Paint, Sip, and Strip! on June 15 was a huge success. The people there had a great time and we saw our vision come to life.

We hope everyone in Orange and other cities will come out and have fun at this social market. I love my city, and I appreciate my good friend and Mayor Mr. Larry Spears Jr. for his visions for Orange as well.

The vision from so many people in our community to grow Orange should be the focus.

I can only speak for myself. I am here to help Orange, Texas grow and if it takes great ideas and businesses to do so I proudly take that responsibility.

Ericka Boutte and I are excited and pray for great success for Painter’s Paradise. Where our motto is, Where Your Art is Your Getaway!

We hope to see everyone at our events. Thank you.

 

Mary Ekene / Founder of Black Women Unite/ Owner/CEO of Livol/ Owner/CEO of Painter’s Paradise