How do I sell my paint and sip business?

A paint and sip business is built from events: public classes, private parties, corporate nights and venue partnerships. Buyers tend to ask how those events keep filling. That means your records, your relationships with venues and your instructors matter more than any equipment. Prepare them before you speak to buyers.

Show bookings by event type

Break your history into public classes, private parties, corporate bookings and any recurring groups. Show how far ahead customers book, how often they come back and where new customers find you. Buyers also like to see the booking system, the email list and the social accounts that bring people in. Keep the information accurate, because a buyer will compare it with your bank records.

Make venue arrangements clear

Many paint and sip businesses run in restaurants, bars or rented rooms. Gather every venue agreement and note which ones can be assigned, which depend on you personally and which are only informal understandings. Speak to your key venues before the sale becomes public if you can, and ask your lawyer how the agreements should be handled.

Plan the instructor and brand handover

If the artists or hosts are the draw, a buyer will want them to stay. Ask your instructors early and consider a transition period where you introduce the buyer. Decide what is part of the sale: the name, the class designs, the website, the social accounts and the supplies. Write it down so nothing is assumed.

Deal with events and gift cards sold in advance

• List every booked event with the deposit received.
• Total the gift cards and prepaid class packs still unused.
• Ask your lawyer and accountant how these are handled between you and the buyer.