Offering with art with a twist, the city’s newest business  is focused firmly on creating an unique experience for its guests. 

Located at 11 East Salem St. and operated by Melanie Strohecker and Lori Ladigo, their inaugural portrait class was held during the last week of February. 

Strohecker, who previously taught at Joshua Dixon Elementary School, explained participants were paired and created canvas portraits of the person sitting across from him or her.

Also available for rent as a party craft space, the co-operators put together a variety of craft kits that can be purchased and completed either during group or individual classes. 

Patty Best, of Columbiana, works on a painting while at Handmade Happiness, a place to gather and create located in the first block of East Salem Street in Columbiana. (Photo by Stephanie Ujhelyi)

“I’m excited about our mediative classes,” Strohecker explained, where participants can paint with watercolors in a calm, quiet setting with soft lighting and soothing music. 

The business plans to celebrate Christmas year-round — providing workshops on the 25th of each month focused on holiday-themed crafts.

Strohecker and Ladigo met while working for Campbell City Schools. 

Ladigo still remains there in the classroom full-time, while Strohecker splits her time between the business and working as a professional learning specialist for Amplify. 

The majority of kits and classes cost between $10 and $30 although six-week classes can cost more. 

Patty Best, of Columbiana, works on a painting while at Handmade Happiness, a place to gather and create located in the first block of East Salem Street in Columbiana. (Photo by Stephanie Ujhelyi)

To celebrate spring, Handmade Happiness is offering a six-week youth craft studio in various media for ages 7 to 13. 

Space is limited to 10 participants, who will attend weekly 90-minute classes on Tuesday nights March 24-April 28.

Cost is $150 per child. All materials are included. 

Strohecker also offers instruction in most digital and multimedia design using software like Canva as well as classes in how to use a Circut.

Handmade Happiness’ regular hours are 3-9 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday with private lessons available by appointment. 

Patty Best, of Columbiana, works on a painting while at Handmade Happiness, a place to gather and create located in the first block of East Salem Street in Columbiana. (Photo by Stephanie Ujhelyi)

For more information, visit the business’ Facebook page, their business site at www.handmadehappinessohio.com or call 330-234-9875.

A visitor works on this piece during her visit to Handmade Happiness located in Columbiana. (Photo by Stephanie Ujhelyi)

A variety of art projects are available for purchase at Handmade Happiness in Columbiana, where they can be completed on site. (Photo by Stephanie Ujhelyi)

This pair of bunny ears is one of the art projects available for creation at Handmade Happiness in Columbiana. (Photo by Stephanie Ujhelyi)