Creative Entrepreneur Chose Hartford for its Inclusivity and Potential

Stephen Richmond is Principal at The Khan Artist Co., dba as Painting With A Twist, an art studio franchise that offers “fun art” painting classes sessions for groups and individuals. He shared with the Hartford Chamber of Commerce what he enjoys most about working in Hartford.Why did you join the Hartford Chamber of Commerce?STEPHEN RICHMOND: I joined the Hartford Chamber of Commerce as a way to potentially network with other small business and have an advocate for my business.Why Hartford? How did you decide on the location for your business?STEPHEN: I wanted to add to the number of minority-owned small businesses in Hartford. I also wanted to provide an option for low-cost social entertainment outside of theater scene. I chose Pratt Street because of the small town look and feel of the street as well as the potential of the street to be a pedestrian attraction without meandering vehicles.Tell us about the neighborhood and what makes it unique.STEPHEN: I believe Pratt Street is the most culturally diverse street in all of Hartford for businesses, residents, and shoppers. With a Puerto Rican sandwich shop, a Dominican Hookah lounge, Black-owned art studio and cigar bars, an Irish pub, and a local art/print shop, it brings shoppers from different walks of life. Add to that the spring through fall street activation and it’s what all of Downtown Hartford should become: inclusive and people-friendly.What is the best thing about working in Hartford?STEPHEN: The people are the best thing about Hartford. Hard-working people who rarely complain and often become familiar faces who turn into friends or extended family.Learn more about Painting With A Twistwww.paintingwithatwist.com | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube