The Helping Factor with Tina Harper

Show Summary:

In this episode, Tina Harper, the owner and CEO of Dream Free Art, shares her story of developing her unconventional business idea amid the pandemic with six kids at home. After initially facing doubters of her creative business idea, she participated in Frederick County Chamber of Commerce’s ShePitch contest, and soon, the community fell in love with the studio. Listen to Tina’s journey as a business owner and her experience living in Frederick.

Show Notes / Highlights from the Show:

How Tina, a mom of 6, got the idea to transition her business model amid the pandemic
How Dream Free Art’s experiences are different than typical “Sip and Paint” events
The story behind Dream Free Art’s Bob Ross-inspired “Happy Accidents” Class, their “Glow” events, and more
Tina’s experience of participating in Frederick County Chamber of Commerce’s ShePitch
How the community of Frederick has welcomed and supported Tina and her business
Ways that Frederick County and the community can continue to support small businesses and underrepresented businesses
Tina’s Frederick Factor

Guest Bio:

Tina is the Founder and CEO of Dream Free Art. She is passionate about sharing the benefits of open-ended, stress-relieving, process-centered art with the community. Tina first found her love of art and entrepreneurship at an early age. Most children open a lemonade stand or mow lawns; meanwhile, young, free-spirited Tina opened a nail salon on her friend’s porch at the age of 12. Since then, Tina has prioritized incorporating art and creative expression in everything she does. As a wife, mom of 7 children (and a new puppy, too!), and a former early childhood educator, Tina values and truly embraces art and using art as a stress-relieving experience and enjoys sharing that with the world!