The owners of Express Yourself think everyone has an inner artist.
"We firmly believe in all forms of expression," co-owner Emi Coleman said.
At Express Yourself, 310 Market St., she and Danielle Elsenrath developed what they hope is a place for all ages to get creative. The business had its grand opening Monday, and will have a Halloween party 4-8 p.m. Oct. 31.
Elsenrath said the space will offer arts and crafts-related classes on a weekly basis.
"We'll bring in local artists to teach classes," she said. "Coming up, we have one where people can learn how to make grapevine wreathes."
The pair also plans to have classes before holidays where folks can make gifts for family members. After-hours, adults can reserve the space for a bring-your-own-alcohol crafting party.
However, it will also be open for less-structured creativity during the day. Customers can purchase a ceramic tchotchke or a canvas to paint, or settle in at the Fulton Rocks! table and paint rocks for free. (There's a bucket for donations, which will help provide paint for future visitors.)
The focus is on children, with a big box of craft supplies - including custom crayons made by Coleman - available for use.
"We're going to be very kid-friendly," she said.
Coleman added the unstructured element is important to her. A digital artist and former muralist, she said she struggled while working toward a bachelor's degree due to the strict demands of teachers.
"Art is doing what you want to do, not what someone tells you to do," she said. "Most art teachers don't like that."
Express Yourself is Elsenrath's brainchild, however. It's her first time owning a business, and it came about following a life-changing event.
"I ended up with lymphoma in 2015 and had to quit my job during treatments," she said.
While her cancer went into remission, Elsenrath said it left her with a hard time mustering the energy and focus necessary to return to her former career. She spent two years babysitting and then decided it was time for a change.
"My chemo-brain was like, 'Well, I do crafts at home with the kiddies,'" she said.
She invited Coleman to team up with her to start the business. Coleman moved from Kansas City to join her.
"I thought it would be better for my kids and I," she said.
Coleman brought her own business and artistic experience as a freelance digital designer.
The two hope to explore more mediums, such as pottery, once the business is firmly established.
To see upcoming classes, visit Express Yourself's Facebook page: goo.gl/ANcgvm.