Canvas and Cabernet

My fiancé surprised me last night… With a date night here. And we had the time of our lives. The staff was excellent & truly gave us a fun painting experience, that we have never had. We will def be back very soon!

What’s more fun the drinking wine and painting? This place is awesome, I don’t know how I didn’t come up with this idea first. I came here with my husband and had a great time. You definitely don’t have to be an expert painter to be able to paint the picture. I literally can’t draw anything other than a stick figure and those birds that look like an upside down w and I painted an amazing picture (to my standards lol). This place is great for a date night or for a night out with friends.

Love this place and there staff. Love the upbeat music and you just come in and have a good time. Great location. Came here twice and love it more every time. Great for hangouts with the girls or date nights.

If you want a fun evening out and want to support a great local business, register for any class for a great time! Julie and her crew are adorably hilarious and make painting fun and easy! No pressure to become Picasso or anything like that… just an all around fun time! I was gifted a VIP package for my birthday last year and was treated like a true VIP anytime I came in to paint — they really made me feel valued! Go check it out!

Amazing atmosphere! Super welcoming staff! Such a happy place to celebrate, relax, rekindle my inner artist, savor some valuable ME time! I’m addicted… and I LOVE C&C! Three cheers! So happy I found them!

I proposed to my partner here. The owner and staff made the night very special. I have the the pictures we painted as lasting memories of the night. They also generously painted a picture of our rings for us, which we have hanging in our home today!

I have done 6 paintings here. Usually in a group (4+people) but I have done it with just one other too. Either way its super fun! I have even dragged my husband here for a couple painting and he enjoyed himself.
Everyone is there to have fun and not take it too seriously. I’m an awful painter and after leaving with my painting I feel super accomplished. I have had several instructors and have enjoyed them all. There is lots of positive energy and the classes are definitely focused on having fun in a low pressure environment. I highly recommend you follow their Facebook page, theres always fun contests and ways to get discounted tickets. Also the wine can get a little pricey but we always make a night of it and have a few drinks and a snack before we go in at one of the local restaurants. Also parking can be tough. Give your self time.

Enjoyed my first experience here :)
I kicked off my pre-​bday celebration, by getting my art and wine on here. I originally anticipated that my girlfriend would join me, but she decided to opt out. And you know what, I decided to go ahead take my happy lonesome self here anyway :)
I love the artsy ambiance the place exudes (go figure). It was an evening class I went to and it seemed to be a smaller group then I expected. I was warmly greeted upon entering and directed on what to do to get started. After getting situated, I partook in the wine/​beer bar. The wine can get pricey, however I managed to get a couple glasses under/​around $ 10.00. The girl working the bar area this evening, was an absolute doll. She also let everyone taste the wines before purchasing, which is always appreciated. I chose some Merlot to start, which I cannot recall the name of, but it was nice.
We then were seated and introduced to our wonderful art teacher for the evening. This girl was an absolute sweetheart, and had such a calming, pleasant demeanor about her. The picture of the evening was «The Cork Heart» It looked appealing and is what initially brought me into to this particular class this evening. They then cranked the music and we got started with creating our little masterpieces. I really loved where my painting was going, however making a few minor mistakes not exactly mimicking the exact «Core Heart» lead to… let’s just say, I ended up with my own beautiful heart creation :) They give you a few breaks in between, allowing your paint to dry before proceeding to the next step, and allowing you to do a little mingling and perhaps shopping. They have an awesome selection of little creative gifts and knickknacks to choose from such as jewelry and other little items; items that could get tempting enough to just spend away on, especially after having a few drinks in ya… I however, was disciplined this visit :)
All in all, I really enjoyed my first visit here; definitely would have probably enjoyed it more if my friend had come, but still managed to have a good time regardless. It can get pricey depending upon what you do, but it is certainly a great way to have a nice, memorable event, with the ability to take your own beautiful unique canvas home, that you can show off and reflect upon for years to come.

Fantastic staff here! Julee is super friendly and did an amazing job of hiring her people. My sisters and I loved the store. So many interesting things… We were in the store for about an hour looking around and watching people paint and enjoy themselves. We can’t wait to go back!

Julie and her team are so amazing. Had such a great time with my friends at this event. Will go back for sure! Can’t recommend this place enough.
I can’t paint for crap but I felt inspired and supported. It was super fun!

Painting at Canvas & Cabernet was a wonderful experience. Being someone who possess no artistic skills, I was able to walk away with something worth putting on the wall. The instructor explains easy step by step instructions, but keeps it a lively environment so you can still chat with your friends. The wine is a little pricey, but looking at the overall experience, it’s worth it. They offer discounted classes through groupon and their Facebook page. I won a free class just for sharing a picture. Looking at the painting on my wall reminds me of thr great night I had. Definitely worth it!

I have copied and pasted an email that I sent to Julee and her response.
On Tue, Dec 8, 2015 at 11:50 AM, Studio Info
wrote:
From: Tricia
Message: Good Morning,
My name is Tricia and I frequent your store on Locust Street. I am a loyal and consistent customer. I have given you a great Unilocal review. I have referred countless customers, co-​workers, friends, and strangers to your store.
I am always sharing your promo posts on social media, I follow you on snapchat, I also tell people great things. There is so much competition in the market for what you offer. My friends are always trying to convince me to go elsewhere because you are overpriced. There are groupons and deals that beat your coupons (2 people for $ 25 — your competition).
I still convince them to visit your store because supporting local businesses is a good thing to do. You recently changed an option on your website. I see that only a certain number of classes qualify for promo codes now. I have invited 3 new people to try your paint classes. I was attempting to register my boyfriend with your new promo (NEWYEAR2016). However, all the available classes that qualify for this code have been taken.
It annoys me that I have to pay $ 45 for one more person when I have attended 8 or 9 classes on my own. Not including the many friends I have brought and convinced to attend (maybe 30 people). I will make this purchase so that our night isn’t ruined. This will be my last class with you and I will not go out of my way to promote or advertise your business. Also you should NOT send emails to clients ASKING them to Unilocal you. Especially when you can’t even recognize a consistent customer. I’ll leave my 4 star review up because the people who work here are super nice. This experience however is not okay.
Warm Regards,
Tricia.
From: Julee H.
Gosh, I’m sorry that you’re so upset about not receiving a 3^rd discounted seat when you were signing up. When we discount our classes we hope that they are taken in the spirit in which they are offered… the spirit of generosity and giving our regulars a chance to sign up with a discount. We do limit the number of discounted seats available per class so that we can even things out with full paid tickets. We have always done this from the very first time we ever offered the discount.
We are the only business of our type that actually pays rent in downtown Walnut Creek. We hold space for creativity in our community and no less than 5 times a day we give away cash and classes to charitable organizations all around the Eastern Bay Area. I know that it seems like we cost more than others, but I think its worth it to have small, locally owned business who loves this community. I’m sorry if you don’t see the value in that. I think it makes us a greater overall value even if it is more expensive.
Something you mention in your email to my staff is that its too bad we don’t recognize our regulars. I’m sure surprised to hear that feedback. We sometimes have new staff who may not know you, but we do recognize our VIP’s and our Addicted Painters with lots of special discounts and an annual party. In fact, I see that in the many many times that you’ve painted with us you’ve only ever paid full price 3 times… congratulations on picking up on all of those great discounted seats we love that you enjoy painting and that you’ve found a way to do that often!
I don’t know if it matters since you’ve decided never to attend a class again, but I don’t see why we couldn’t open up one more discount space so that you can have 3 discounted seats in that class. Please do let us know what we can do to accommodate you.
Artfully yours,
Julee H.
I am not new to Canvas and Cab, you can see my previous review below. Unfortunately, things have changed. I write this review with mixed emotions. I don’t want to write it, yet I think that a small business owner who doesn’t value all clients and customers should be exposed. The tone of Canvas and Cab’s owner makes me feel like the $ 25 classes I have purchased are more for me than for her business. She has made me feel like my business and hard earned money is not valued. Whether I pay $ 25 or $ 45 dollars per class. It’s still money that I have worked hard for and I am choosing to spend it at Canvas and Cabernet (not including the countless friends I’ve brought). Not to mention the many times I have purchased jewelry, gifts, and other accessories from the store.
By Canvas and Cabernet offering promotions they are NOT being that generous. They’re practicing marketing and sales skills. When business is slow post promos, then cram everyone together. Instead of Julee taking time to actually read my email she was to quick to argue and dish out attitude + sarcasm. I supported C.C. b/​c it was a small business and I messaged her to avoid Unilocaling. However, after a response like her’s. Unilocal is the way to go!

This was fun! Get your creative juices flowing with wine :) You can BYOB which I would recommend since their red selection is not great… Pickup your favorite wine and paint. It’s what we did and had a great time!
Note: corking fee is $ 20 but basically the same as buying two drinks there.

I was at a session last year. And while I enjoyed the actual painting portion I was shocked at how expensive a glass of wine was $ 15 a glass after I had already paid $ 45 to join the painting session. I would expect to pay extra for wine but I was very disappointed in the price of wine at this event. I would go again but would definitely not have wine, so maybe I
call it Creating Canvas.

This venue by far provides the best atmosphere for panting over a glass of wine. I have been to a couple of other painting classes hosted by different companies and they don’t compare to the fun of this particular venue. I also like the wider and more exciting variety of paintings to choose from when signing up for classes. The lead painter had a microphone, she was positioned in a great spot so it was very easy to watch and follow along, the whole evening just flowed, the pace was great and I never felt rushed or behind. My friend was a newbie and she loved the experience.
Some cons: very tight on space, it took me a few minutes to get used to the proximity of my painting neighbors; my friend and I are very different heights and weights, towards the end of the class both of us were uncomfortable (backache) sitting and opted to paint standing up; the wine amount is generous but the quality (that night) lacked.
If you are signing up for the first time or wanting to introduce someone to the wine and painting experience, this is definitely a great place to go. It is fun and uplifting, plenty of parking lots around, and you could even do a little bit of shopping while waiting for your painting to dry (great items by local artists like jewelry, scarves, lotions and soaps, unique trinkets, etc.).

This place is the mature adult night out! I love going here and getting my wine on and painting. I thinks it’s an awesome environment and I love the employees they have. I have not been in a few months but I plan on coming back soon. I have had my birthday party there, pre-​bachalorette party there and so many Girls Night Outs. I most enjoy the facts guys go. My husband comes with me too, It’s a great date night!
The only thing is, its $$$ and the wine is also!

I have been there a few times with a group of friends. I have had a great time painting, singing and sipping delicious wine. I’m not an artist by any means but the step by step instruction we received made it appear that I had a hidden talent (which I don’t). I appreciate that all the items for sale in the store are from local artists.
If you’re looking for a fun night with friends, on your own or on a date, I would highly recommend Canvas and Cabernet! :)

I’ve always heard of places like this and always was afraid to try it because I am terrible at painting, let alone any type of art! A friend invited me here and joined in on this new adventure! The area is in downtown Walnut Creek and as you can imagine, the parking situation here can get crazy, especially on the weekends! There are plenty of parking garages around so that helps with that issue.
The area is a rather small area but it is able to sit about 25 – 30 people. There were people doing this activity with friends, significant others, spouses, family, people on dates etc so this is a really well rounded activity for anyone to do. They provide you will all the supplies, apron, paint, canvas and alcohol for those interested. The teacher that taught us did an excellent job on going through step by step to make the painting actually look like something.
The entire class was about 2 and half hours long but didn’t seem like it actually was. The atmosphere was so light and fun and music was even playing. You can tell that everyone was having a good time and supporting one another. Over all I had a great time and I was surprised by how good my painting came out, considering that the last time I painted was back in middle school! I would definitely come back again with a friend or family!

I finally got the chance to go check this place out with my coworkers for a Sunday Funday activity. As soon as we walked in, we were greeted by the friendly staff. After getting seated, dropping off our purses, and getting outfitted in our painting aprons, my friend and I happily ordered mimosas! It is Sunday, after all. We got our paints and brushes, and settled into our seats at the front of the class ;) I was a little nervous/​hesitant because while I think I’m creative, I’m definitely not as artistic as I want to be.
The instructor was upbeat, funny, and engaging. Soon enough, with a slight buzz going, my artistic whims came to life on my canvas. It was fun, there were many laughs, and my painting came out 100 times better than I thought it would. I honestly was envisioning my art to end up looking like a hyper child threw paint on it, but I was so pleased with how it came out.
In addition, the «bartender» was so sweet, the bathroom was clean, and the trinkets and treasures throughout the store were so fun. My friend and I bought some rings and earrings because they were so cute. Plus, as a bonus for painting that day — we got 20% our entire purchase.
I would highly recommend doing this! I am so excited to come back and try another painting. And gentlemen, there were at least five dudes in the class, so don’t get discouraged if your significant other drags you along. It’s a friendly, judgement free environment, so have a good attitude going in and you’ll be sure to have a great time!

Tonight was my second time at Canvas and Cabarnet. The first time I came with my girlfriends on a Friday night, and we painted this extremely difficult painting. Nevertheless, I had a ton of fun sipping wine, hanging out with my gal pals, shopping in between paint breaks, and chatting it up with new folks.
I had a lot of fun with my friends! I enjoyed the experience so much that I decided to keep following them on Facebook and Instagram. One evening I was browsing through their calendar, I saw that they were doing a mixed media paint night. I decided to buy 2 seats for my fiancé and I. I thought it would be a fun date night experience, especially because it wouldn’t be as stressful as painting a blank canvas. My fiancé is really into words and quotes so I thought he would appreciate this theme.
We both had a positive experience, and we had a lot of fun. The music was great and fun! It was upbeat! The instructors were really nice and helpful. They were also very chill and patient. The other participants/​customers were also really friendly, and had very creative minds. All the other participants had a positive vibe. Everyone was really supportive and encouraging. It was a safe space to by ourselves. We had the freedom to be creative. It was therapeutic and relaxing! No wonder they have a sign outside that says «it’s cheaper than therapy». I think it’s something we would definitely come back to do!
We live all the way in San Jose so it’s a trek to get out to Walnut Creek, especially on the weekdays. However, I must say it’s worth it. When we got home, one of our neighbors commented on how intricate and good our paintings looked! (Yay!!)
I am on the board of directors for a non-​profit organization. I am hoping that we could do some type of fundraiser with Canvas and Cabarnet. I think this would be such a fun experience!