Baldwin chamber hosts ribbon cutting ceremony to welcome Painting with a Twist

The Baldwin Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for the newest business in town — Painting with a Twist — on July 17.

Joanne Bove, a 28-year Baldwin resident, has spent more than 30 years in corporate America, including the last 17 as a CEO of a Manhattan translation company. After visiting a variety of paint and sip locations, or establishments that offer drinks during painting sessions, she decided to bring one to Baldwin.

Bove runs the newly opened Painting with a Twist with her husband, Frank, and daughter, Katherine, who serves as the studio’s manager. It’s located at 855 Merrick Road.

Chamber President Erik Mahler welcomed a crowd of a few dozen people at the ceremony and introduced Nassau County Legislator Debra Mule and Assemblywoman Judy Griffin.

“She is a Baldwin resident, and an amazing asset for Baldwin,” Mahler said of Bove. “This is an amazing place.”

“On behalf of Nassau County, we are so pleased to welcome you,” Mule said. “I look forward to painting — congratulations.”

“I’m really pleased for Joanne, Katherine and her husband,” Griffin said. “This was a long time coming — 14 months is what I hear — I’m so glad you finally opened. Looks like a beautiful place, and a place many can come to enjoy themselves and have a good time. On behalf of the New York State Assembly, we congratulate you on Painting with a Twist!”

Guests celebrated with wine and a colorful painting-themed cake.

While the Louisiana-based Painting with a Twist franchise is passionate about supporting local organizations, the Bove family keeps up the tradition by partnering with the Painting with a Purpose program. The store will donate up to half of its proceeds to local nonprofit organizations.

Painting with a Twist Baldwin also offers private parties for corporate outings, date nights and other special events. The studio has two rooms — the first is able to fit up to 35 people and the other fits 20, making it accessible for groups of friends and parties. For more information, call (516) 401-8846.

“Baldwin needs some new and interesting businesses to keep families here,” Bove said. “Also for people wanting to shop here, find things to do here, and hopefully this is just a small piece to that puzzle.”