Want to throw a party that’s fun, creative, and totally memorable? A paint and sip party might just be the perfect idea. Whether you’re celebrating a hens night, a birthday, or just looking for a fun night out with friends, these events bring people together over art, wine, and laughter. And the best part? You don’t need to be Picasso to enjoy the experience.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of planning a paint and sip event: from picking a theme and venue to sourcing all the necessary equipment and making sure your guests leave with their very own masterpiece. Let’s get into it.
Choosing Your Paint and Sip Party Theme & Venue
Pick the Right Theme
Themes help spark creativity and make your sip event feel more cohesive. Some popular paint and sip party themes include:
- Tropical sunset scenes
- Famous artist nights (like Van Gogh or Monet)
- Abstract art and wine pairings
- Spooky Halloween or festive holiday themes
- Life drawing with a cheeky twist (like a nude model or topless waiter)
A well-planned theme also helps when choosing your artwork, decorations, and even food and drink pairings.
Book a Venue (or DIY One)
If you’re hosting a private event, you can book a sip studio or art class venue that offers a full-service setup. These often include all the necessary equipment: canvas, brushes, paints, aprons, and even drinks.
But you can also go DIY! Transform your living room, patio, or even a hired boat into your own paint and sip studio. Just make sure there’s:
- Enough room for guests to paint comfortably
- Good lighting and ventilation
- A BYO food and drink setup if you’re hosting casually
Pro tip: Consider limited space availability if you’re booking during peak season like the holidays or end of the financial year.
Planning a Sip Party: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Set Your Budget and Guest List
Your budget affects everything—venue, supplies, food, drinks, and any hired talent. Knowing your guest count helps you plan the layout, seating, and materials.
Step 2: Source Supplies
You’ll need:
- Canvases (blank or pre-sketched)
- Paints (acrylics are best for fast drying)
- Brushes and palettes
- Easels and aprons
- Paper towels and drop cloths
- Food and drinks (wine, juice, snacks)
You can find paint and sip kits online, or work with a studio that provides everything.
Step 3: Set the Mood
The goal is to create a relaxed and welcoming space. Play upbeat background music, light a few candles or fairy lights, and set out wine glasses and snacks buffet-style. The creative process should feel fun, not formal.
Pitfalls to Avoid
Even fun nights can go sideways without good planning. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:
- Overcrowding the room: Give everyone enough space to move and paint.
- Poor ventilation: Especially if using stronger paints indoors.
- No guidance: Guests can get frustrated without clear steps. Hire an instructor or play a guided video.
- Not covering the basics: Forgetting simple things like lighting, seating, or having extra brushes can impact the experience.
Advanced Tips for a Next-Level Event
Add a Cheeky Twist
Want to make it unforgettable? Bring in a life drawing model or book a male stripper to pose for the class. It’s a hilarious, light-hearted way to celebrate hens nights or birthdays with a creative twist.
Check out our life drawing party with male stripper experience to see how it works.
Bring Entertainment
Add-ons like a photo booth, collaborative canvas, or a mini awards ceremony (“Most Creative”, “Best Picasso”, etc.) make the event more interactive and fun.
Offer Variety
Cater to all tastes by offering:
- Wine, bubbly, cocktails, and mocktails
- Cheese boards, finger food, or themed snacks
- Options for dietary restrictions (gluten-free, vegan, etc.)
Recommended Tools & Resources
If you’re planning your own sip experience:
- Order supplies from online art stores or party kits
- Use Pinterest or Instagram for inspiration
- Book a private cruise venue or mobile artist team in Melbourne
- Use platforms like Eventbrite or Facebook to invite guests and manage RSVPs
FAQs About Paint and Sip Parties
Q: How much does it cost to host a paint and sip party?
A: It depends on guest count, venue, and supplies. DIY events can be as low as $10/person, while luxe packages with models and catering can run higher.
Q: What kind of paint should I use?
A: Acrylic paints are best—they dry quickly, are vibrant, and easy to clean.
Q: Do I need a professional instructor?
A: Not necessarily, but a guided experience helps. You can hire an instructor, follow a YouTube tutorial, or simply print step-by-step instructions for each guest.
Key Takeaways
- Pick a creative theme that suits your group
- Choose a venue that fits your vibe and space needs
- Provide all the essential equipment or use a kit
- Guide your guests or hire a pro to run the session
- Add food, music, and optional entertainment for the full package
Ready to Paint, Sip & Party?
Nude model at a Melbourne life drawing event posing naked
Paint and sip parties bring people together in the best way—laughing, painting, sipping, and celebrating life. Whether you’re hosting in a studio, your living room, or on a boat, the key is creating a space where your guests feel free to have fun and be creative.
Want to take it up a notch? Let Sky Strippers handle the hard part. From mobile sip parties to life drawing with our gorgeous entertainers, we’ve got your next event covered.
Book your Paint and Sip Melbourne experience today and make your next party one to remember.
