The First Session Nerves

What It Really Felt Like to Run My Very First Craft & Canvas Session

When I got my very first message asking me to host a Paint and Sip session for a fundraiser — in a horse stable, no less! (perfect for photos and atmosphere) — I could hardly contain my excitement. I literally spun around in my chair, messaged my husband straight away, and thought, “Wow… this is actually happening!”

It felt like such a defining moment — the point where all those late nights building my website, creating my brand, and doing all the behind-the-scenes groundwork finally paid off.

Now, I’ll be totally honest — even though I had my first booking, I didn’t quite have everything ready yet. I was waiting for that first confirmed event before investing in things like aprons, brushes, and paints (basically, all the essentials you actually need to run a paint party!). But I had a plan — and thankfully, it worked.

Once the session was locked in, I set out to gather everything I needed. From branding my materials (that’s a story for another day!) to driving all over the city to find just the right supplies, every little task made it feel more real. I was building something from the ground up — and I couldn’t wait to see it come to life.

But here’s the thing about starting your own business: sometimes, your excitement doesn’t quite match your bank balance. That first event didn’t exactly cover all the costs of the supplies I’d just invested in — and I knew I’d need even more for future sessions. The truth is, I couldn’t pay myself just yet… but I kept reminding myself that every brush, apron, and bottle of paint was an investment in something bigger.

I’d spent weeks preparing — designing the artwork, checking supplies, creating table layouts, and making sure everything looked just right. My living room was overflowing with brushes, aprons, and canvases. By the time the big day rolled around, I thought I was ready for anything… until those first guests started walking through the door.

Paint and Sip set-up in the horse stables

The Nerves Were Real (and So Was the Excitement!)

It wasn’t until I was actually driving to the venue that it hit me — I hadn’t even thought about how I was going to start the session or introduce myself! Cue mild panic. I turned the music off, took a few deep breaths, and started rehearsing my opening lines out loud as I drove. I must have repeated them until they finally felt right. By the time I arrived, I had my little intro down — and honestly, that bit of last-minute practice made all the difference. When the moment came to speak, I felt calm, confident, and ready to kick off my very first Paint and Sip.

As I welcomed everyone in, I could feel my heart racing. Would they enjoy it? Would the paints behave? What if no one liked the design? But then something wonderful happened — the room filled with laughter, chatter, and that buzzing creative energy that makes paint and sip sessions so special.

Everyone relaxed into the evening, drinks in hand, paintbrushes ready, and before long, the nerves disappeared completely. It was incredible to watch people who hadn’t painted in years (or ever!) rediscover their creativity.

Finding the Joy in the Chaos

Of course, there were a few little hiccups — a paint spill here, a misplaced brush there — but that’s part of the charm! By the end of the night, everyone had created their own unique masterpiece, each one bursting with colour and personality.

Seeing everyone proud of what they’d painted reminded me exactly why I started Craft & Canvas — to give people a chance to slow down, laugh, create, and connect.

Everyone's final painting masterpiece at the end of the session, surrounded by horses.

What That First Event Taught Me

That night taught me something really important: nerves mean you care. They mean you’re stepping out of your comfort zone and doing something that matters.

Running my first Paint and Sip event in Perth wasn’t just about art — it was about building a creative community, sharing joy, and creating a space where people could unwind and try something new.

Now, every time I set up a new session — whether it’s a team-building workshop, birthday paint party, or fundraiser — I still feel a few butterflies. But this time, I welcome them.

I’ll always keep that very first canvas — it’s more than just a painting; it’s a reminder of how far I’ve come, all the hard work that went into getting here, and what I want Craft & Canvas to represent: creativity, connection, and the joy of making something beautiful together.

Thanks for being here Behind the Brush! This is where I share the journey honestly—the moments that inspire, the moments that challenge, and all the colourful little bits that make it worthwhile. Until next time, keep creating!

 – Amy

See below some highlights of my first paint and sip session.