One River School of Art + Design — Attraction in Allendale

One River Allendale (ORA) is an extraordinary school, one that I cannot recommend enough. We reside much closer to One River Englewood but a class that we wanted to enroll in was already filled which led us to ORA. Despite being a 30-minute longer drive vs Englewood and with all due respect to the Englewood branch which we also toured and were impressed with, we can't help but feel extremely fortunate to have discovered the diamond that is One River Allendale. The staff is what defines a great institution and from top to bottom, ORA is stacked with kind, caring, dynamic, and of course artistic individuals that together comprise an incredible team. Not to be too superficial but each member has their own unique style and flair. You don't get any sense of 'basic' here. A sense of character, uniqueness, and creativity shines through and through - it's what you want "to see" in an art school.

Alise at the front desk always welcomes us with a smile and answers questions with courtesy, speed, and professionalism. Lily, one of the teaching assistants dragged us down into the rabbit hole of Demon Slayer and Japanese anime at large. My son and I have enjoyed countless moments together watching the two seasons of that series, have just started Hunter X Hunter, and have one more on the back burner. Lily's fine curating and willingness to share this particular passion of her's has truly led to a stronger father-son bond. Your mileage will obviously vary in this regard, but for me, this alone has been worth the price of tuition.

This isn't to say the education isn't topnotch - my son loves his classes. I can say firsthand that Matt and Will are really fine instructors. Both are extremely patient and understanding, passionate about teaching their craft, and have an amazing way of captivating the students. My son loves sharing what he's learned and accomplished that day (certainly more so than in 'real' school) but my favorite part is hearing him recount the extra touches that the teachers put on to make the class extra-memorable. From having random conversations around a particular mainstream interest, say 'Sonic' or 'Star Wars', to recounting memorable childhood stories, to centering a lesson around an animated scene that a student chooses, to indulging a student's desire to play the song "Barbie Girl" at the end of every class (I guess making it the de facto class anthem) - the instructors are so likeable and make the learning experience truly engaging and impactful by making that special connection, making it personal.

Last but not least, the leadership team cuts no corners on the events that they organize. The Halloween Party was a truly memorable experience with so many activities packed into a limited space - a costume contest, scavenger hunt, pumpkin painting, and a crafts table with so many elaborate forms of glitter. And of course candy! What really impressed me was the detail that went into candy selection. There were at least 30 varieties - from Smarties to Double Bubble to Now and Laters to Blow Pops to every sort of chocolate imaginable. When I complimented them on this, Kayla took pride in telling me that they went to several different stores to select it to ensure there's something for everyone. It wasn't just a trip to Target but a trip to Target, Acme, Shop Rite, and Walmart. Not to mention that a number of the staff coordinate their costumes every year - this year the theme was Scooby Doo. They did an absolute bang-up job of dressing as The Gang - including the Mystery Mobile! It's in these sort of extra touches, fine attention to detail, and can't-fake-it "we care about our students" attitude and vibe that makes One River Allendale really...

I would rate One River Allendale higher than five stars if there was such an option! Everything about this studio is AMAZING! There's ample parking, a big beautiful, well kept and well stocked studio, friendly and helpful staff always ready to welcome you with a smile (and I've gotten through every time I called too!) I take class with Hannah, and I'm so thrilled!! Hannah is incredibly talented and it is clear that she loves what she does. She explains technique clearly, she is a pleasure to be around, she is compassionate and caring, and she truly rejoices in seeing her art students make progress and succeed. Hannah knows how to meet each student exactly where they're at and has a ton of knowledge in art. She is everything you can ask for in an art teacher! Kayla, the owner, is on top of making sure this studio is the best in all ways. I feel that she notices and appreciates me, even though she's the owner- and not the one actually teaching me. It is very apparent that Kayla is completely invested in this studio and does whatever it takes to keep it top rate. I can go on and on, but to sum it up- One River Allendale has very quickly become my happy place, and I'm confident that it will be yours too if you...

First, I want to say that the facility and staff are helpful, knowledgeable, and the school itself has nice facilities. My rating relates to tuition (the cost is reasonable). However, the minimum is 2 months, with no refunds. I was only able to attend 2 of the 9 classes due to a variety of circumstances, ranging from COVID, to a death in the family, to my Daughter's soccer tournament. The school will graciously allow me to make the classes up, but will not provide a refund. This is understandable, but I would say there are always exceptions. I also say, if you're going to sign up, know that you are paying up front and make sure...