Celebrating a Decade of Creativity: Board & Brush Turns 10!

Ten years ago, Julie Selby began hosting DIY workshops in her basement to connect with friends and create vintage-inspired home décor at a more affordable price than found in antique shops. What started as a fun, in-home hobby quickly expanded into a full DIY studio in Hartland, Wisconsin, fueled by the growing demand for hands-on creative experiences.

Fast forward to today, and Board & Brush Creative Studio has grown into a nationwide franchise with locations across the country, helping countless people discover their inner artist. As we celebrate 10 years of creativity, camaraderie, and connection, we sat down with our founder, Julie Selby, to reflect on the journey and look ahead to the future.

An Unexpected Dream Realized

When Julie opened that first studio in 2015, the idea of Board & Brush becoming a franchise wasn’t even on her radar.

“Oh my goodness, NO!” Julie recalls when asked if she imagined the company growing to this level. “I honestly didn’t even understand what it meant to franchise, so the following couple of years was a learning adventure for me!”

That adventure has turned into a thriving business model, with Board & Brush studios bringing DIY workshops and social gatherings to communities across the country. From corporate team-building events to date nights and girls’ nights out, Board & Brush has become a staple for those looking to create something special while making lasting memories.

Leading with Passion & Purpose

For Julie, Board & Brush is more than just a business – it’s about empowerment and the entrepreneurial spirit. Studio owners come from all walks of life, each with their own goals and definition of success. Whether it’s retired couples seeking a new adventure, mothers looking for flexibility while raising a family, or creative entrepreneurs eager to share their passion for DIY, Board & Brush ownership fits a variety of lifestyles.

“I love being a woman leader in the industry and being a part of a majority woman-owned and operated business. It is important to show that a business can operate to accommodate a family-friendly environment, yet still have a proven record of success,” she says.

Her dedication to fostering a supportive and inspiring workplace has helped Board & Brush stand out not just as a DIY studio, but as a company that values work-life balance and community engagement.

The Magic of a Sip & Paint Workshop

If you’ve ever attended a Board & Brush workshop, you know that it’s more than just painting wood – it’s an experience. For Julie, there are two moments in every workshop that she loves the most.

“I love a good distressing session that not only makes the boards look vintage, but also helps to hammer out a day’s worth of frustrations,” she laughs. “But I also love the reveal…peeling the stencil off and seeing your color choices and the design itself is very rewarding!”

Board & Brush prides itself on helping customers create décor that they are proud to display in their homes. That moment of unveiling a finished piece is what keeps customers coming back and sharing the experience with friends and family!

Looking Ahead

As Board & Brush enters its second decade, Julie remains hopeful and determined despite the challenges facing small businesses today.

“I hope we can weather out the difficulties of our economy right now and the damage it is doing to small businesses. But, most of all, I hope to continue to grow in communities all over the country and share my passion for DIY and social connections,” she shares.

With creativity at its core and a strong community of franchise owners and customers, Board & Brush is poised for even greater success in the years to come.

Thank You for 10 Amazing Years!

This milestone wouldn’t be possible without the incredible customers and franchise owners who bring the Board & Brush experience to life every day. Whether you’ve attended a workshop, own a studio, or simply support us from afar, we thank you for being part of our journey.

Here’s to another 10 years of creativity, connection, and DIY magic!