One Christmas, a Baton Rouge woman who wanted a real hobby unwrapped a beginner art set from her husband. A couple of glasses of wine and a few finished canvases later, she had a business plan. That is the origin story behind Painting and Pinot, the paint-and-sip studio on Perkins Road.

From a gift to a grand opening

Owners Violet and Chris Tremblay spent eight months on zoning and permits and three more on renovations before opening the doors on Dec. 4, 2010. The studio says the same day brought another surprise: the couple learned they were expecting their first child. Nearly 16 years on, the goal is the same, which is to give people a fun night out with a painting to show for it.

How a class works

No experience is required. Guests pick a class from the online calendar, since each session features a different painting, and reserve a seat. Arrive five to ten minutes early with your favorite drinks and snacks. Adult classes are BYOB, while kids' parties stick to juice boxes.

From there, a local artist walks the room through the piece one stroke at a time. All supplies are included, and everyone leaves with a finished canvas the same night.

Parties for the holiday season

Private parties start at eight guests and work for office team-building, girls' nights, birthdays, showers and fundraisers. The host picks the painting, and each guest can choose their own colors. Beyond canvas, groups can try wine glass painting, wood signs and door hangers, paint pours, seasonal projects, a Sip and Switch night or the new Mini Bestie Art Party.

A gift that becomes a night out

Gift certificates can be bought and printed or emailed right away, or scheduled to arrive later. They cover two-hour and three-hour paint nights, Mommy and Me classes and the popular Paint Your Pet session.

Painting and Pinot is at 7248 Perkins Rd., Suite B. Call 225-223-6101 to ask about dates.

Bring a bottle, grab a brush and see what ends up on your wall.

Photo courtesy of Painting and Pinot.