Meet Natasha Berteloot | Art Coach

We had the good fortune of connecting with Natasha Berteloot and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Natasha, looking back, what do you think was the most difficult decision you’ve had to make?
I would say one of the most difficult decisions I had to make was deciding to start my own business. I had just purchased a new home, and a new car when I decided to start my business. So I ended up totally depleting my savings account while investing in my business. I didn’t have anything, or anyone to lean back on for financial support. I also did not have any friends that were running successful businesses.

I had never incurred any credit card debt. But once I started my company I had to start relying heavily on my credit cards due to the many unexpected costs that come with starting a business. I don’t consider myself a huge risk-taker. I really like to make calculated moves, but there are no real guarantees so it was scary. Coming from working in the corporate world I had to simplify my life and spending habits as I started to get my business off the ground.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I think paint party companies are pretty popular nowadays which is awesome. But one thing that I think really sets us apart is that we empower our guests to paint everything freehand. Our attendees are not just coloring in a pre-drawn canvas. We never pre-draw the lessons. Each of our Art Coaches provides easy step-by-step instructions that are simple enough for even a child to create on their own. I think this is important because it helps to boost confidence and self-esteem which aids in overall mental health.

One huge challenge for me was approaching corporate clients. I was not sure I was ready to tackle the corporate market. But I listed that we service corporate clients, started advertising our services and they started to come to me organically. That really helped to take the pressure off. Now we mainly service corporate clients and sponsored private events so team-building has become our area of expertise. We include team building, group exercises, and games in all of our sessions. Many people come in saying that they can’t even draw a stick figure. But by the time they leave, they have created a masterpiece and they are so proud of themselves. That is probably what I am most proud of showing each guest that they are already true artists. I am a firm believer that everyone can and should paint at least once in their life.

I think another thing that sets us apart is that I have a degree in Counseling, and I currently work as an active Counselor. So in addition to utilizing the natural healing properties of art, we also include other fun healing elements in each of our events. We incorporate some mental health techniques that help to create a judgment-free creative space making the entire creative process fun which sparks joy in our guests. We also have a professional photographer on staff to capture memories that will last a lifetime.

Starting and running a business is not easy but if you do something you love it is worth it. Building H-art Therapy from the ground up has been a dream.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was visiting I think the first thing we would do is attend one of our public paint party events. They are so full of life. We would sing Karaoke to get the party started. Then we would run to the photo booth, grab some props, and take some fun photos. We would create a beautiful masterpiece with the group, mingle with the guests, and of course, we would have a glass of wine in hand, and most likely a sparkling cider for me. Before leaving the H-art Therapy event we would walk around the Goodwin Gallery in Stockton where most of our events are held and enjoy art from various talented local artists.

For dinner, we would go to one of my favorite local restaurants Market Tavern everything there is delish. The next day would be a spa day. Massages, facials, pedicures the works. We would definitely go and catch a concert most likely in an intimate venue like Yoshis. I think we need a day to also do absolutely nothing but chill in the house because we are both hard-working women. Popcorn is one of my favorite snacks so Netflix and chill is on the agenda.

I am an outdoor fanatic so all my friends know they have to take some time outside with me. A day on the beach with a full-on picnic is necessary. I may even select a beach that has a nice hike down to the water or one that has horseback riding along the beach.

I am a vegan food junkie and I love a local vegan joint like Vegan Mobb. One of my favorite things to do is to try new things so we would try something new together! I would also be down to hear what things she would like to do while she is in town.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I have to give a huge Shoutout to Moms. Ever since I was a child she has supported me and my many endeavors of working in a creative field. Although I did not think I was a strong artist I did love to draw and all things art related. It’s funny cause actually we talk about this all the time, but my mom even asked me to paint a mural for her when I was in elementary school. Just looking at the large space was so intimidating for me that I declined her offer. She believed in me before I believed in myself. She taught me to believe in myself, to work hard, and play hard. She taught me to have a good work-life balance. Actually, I still owe her a mural down to this day. I just promised her last year that I would finally do it for her. So I am working through some ideas now.

I think just knowing that she believed in me as well as so many other members of my framily (friends and family) has definitely been a driving force for me. They speak life into me when I am feeling drained. My mom has helped me to troubleshoot so many times because I hate crunching numbers. She even volunteers to work at my events as needed. I really feel as if any measure of success that I have is only due to a team effort, and the love and support of so many.

Website: www.h-arttherpay.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haart_therapy/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/haarttherapy/

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/search?find_desc=h-art+therapy&l=a%3A37.999757023327504%2C-121.30776117700688%2C84

Image Credits
@Rawhimages