Hammer & Stain North Shore — Attraction in Beverly

My experience at the studio was not positive.  Here's why: I felt particularly slighted when someone in my party suggested a color choice that was less conventional and the instructor praised her creativity but as soon as she learned it was actually my idea, her reaction was indifferent at best. While I felt the instructor encouraged everyone else in the room that day to experiment and do what they wanted, I felt she questioned many of the things I tried.  At one point, she just started to paint over my piece, over a section I had just worked on! Any compliment she offered me felt forced but she offered them freely to everyone around me. I don't know if my color/technique choices were not sitting right with the instructor or what, but it felt uncomfortable. It was a person in my party who noticed these microaggressions against me and helped me process why I felt uncomfortable and a sense of distrust of that instructor.  I am a visible minority and don't want to make this about race where I have no proof of it. But that's the thing about microaggressions, isn't it?  You never really know if it's a race issue or some other bias the person has against you, but you just know the encounters make you feel uncomfortable. The 3 stars are because the template design came out...

I really can't say enough of the space and the owner. Everything is thoughtfully curated. The space itself is open and airy but still cozy and inviting. I had my daughter's 12th birthday there. The owner was kind, patient and responsive. The ages ranged from 5-12. She made sure everyone went home with something they loved. The space allows food and drink too! The price was also reasonable. You really can't go wrong. We actually booked an adult night for the mom's! Can't wait...

Had my daughter's birthday party here. Had 10 kids there and they had a blast. The ladies on staff were very helpful and did a great job of supporting the kids. The atmosphere of the place is perfect for kids and adults and would make a great place for team building, date nite, etc. The area surrounding H&S is also very welcoming and offers a host of opportunities after you've created your...