I flew to San Jose from San Diego for my sisters birthday weekend and had a few special events planned for her. One of the events was a wine/plant night on Saturday Jan 27 at Stilettos, hosted by Yaymaker. I had bought two Groupons in December for this special weekend and we were excited to go. We drove to Stilettos in Saratoga for the plant night and the doors were locked and no one was there. We were never contacted by Yaymaker, nor were we told by the company that the event was canceled. I had to call the owner of the wine bar to find out what happened. She told me that Yaymaker had canceled because only 4 people had registered. It would have been nice to have been given this information in advance and given a refund. Now I am forced to have to chase them through Groupon. I would NOT recommend this event to anyone. THUMBS DOWN read more

I love Paint Nite! I got the $25 per person deal on Groupon and decided to get it for a friend and I. It was a great experience. I've painted before and have been drawing/animating since I was in high school so it wasn't a problem for me, but I'm glad my friend was able to learn something from a professional artist. And I learned a couple of techniques that I'll use in the future. The only downside is some people drink a lot so they get kind of loud & rowdy. ait becomes difficult for the instructor to regain control of the crowd sometimes. And then there are a handful of girls that continually take selfies with every step that the instructor had them perform and that got kind of annoying. But I'm sure that's just my session that I attended. Other than that, it's pretty awesome. I would say that any one should try Paint Nite at least once! read more

I was expected to lean more about plant and how to arrange. They just give us supplies and tell us what are little tools for. That is it! We do whatever we want, like kinder garden art class. Only the difference is we can order drink and food. Its not worse to spend $45 (Groupon $23) to attend, plus $12 for materials. Might be depending on which instructor we choose. read more

Had so much fun at tonight's Paint Nite at Grill Em Steak House. What made it even better was that I got to use my Groupon deal. Yaaay! Today's paint teacher was Gabe (along with his assistant) and they made the 2 hours quickly, in a fun filled manner. Gabe encouraged us to be ourselves and to know when enough paint is enough. I would highly recommend paint nite whether you come alone, with friends, or a significant other. Enjoy a few hours showing your creative side while drinking and eating! read more

Yaymaker - Party & Event Planning Near Me

Booked it last minute in Fremont and thoroughly enjoyed. It's an experience must have even if you think you can't paint. The frivolous interaction between the wannabe's and the artist maketh fun evening:) will be back again. Cons- they publicize as paint nite with drinks but no comp drinks were offered which is okay but the expectations should be set correctly! read more

My husband took me to Paint Nite for my birthday. He wasn't into it at first. Neither of us have any experience in visual arts, so I wasn't sure what to expect. The instructor Willis was fun and funny but also really supportive of the entire painting process. He made it easy and accessible to learn how to paint the picture we were working with. I felt self conscious because I messed up part of my painting but he told me that if I like it, that's all that matters. He showed us techniques for how to use the brushes as well as brush care. He let us do all the creative work and every painting there came out different. It was so cool to see the creative range of work. I had such a great time and my husband insists that we're going back. I can't wait! read more

It's an instant chemistry reaction when you mix painting and alcohol. Paint nite is a cute concept. It brought out all the fond memories of your favorite art class when you were a child. Who couldn't use an excuse to get some booze and take home a trophy painting? It is, however, not for anyone slightly serious about art. You will get instructions how to reproduce a specific art work but it is not in any way a painting class. If learning is what you desire, look elsewhere. Clientele seems to be prominently female. All you single guys out there having trouble meeting girls? *hint* *hint* read more

Left pleasantly surprised at how great my painting turned out!! The instructor was super funny and helpful, taking us step-by-step so even the noobest of noobs (read: me) could produce a decent piece of art ;) Overall, I had a fun and stress-free experience. Definitely recommend for a girls' night or date night, regardless of your skill level! There are always Groupons or LivingSocial deals, so definitely grab one of those. Honestly, I would not pay for the full asking price listed on the website but I would definitely do another round using a coupon deal. read more

I fashion myself to be more adept at writing and photography when it comes to artistic endeavors. That said, I haven't painted anything worthwhile since I was in kid dabbing my fingers in different colors and coming up with the teacher's rendition of what he or she considered an elementary assignment. So, comes Paint Nite, an interestingly cool opportunity social mixer that allows novice types to feel a bit Picasso-like in a group setting. It's a laid back affair, simplistic and ultimately fun. I mean, it's also set up for those thirsty folk who like to down a little spirit for a buzzing good time; in short, this is definitely the event to surround yourself and a few of your buddies in. As for my impressionable experience, it took place at the La Pinata downtown San Jose where Gabe the instructor and Shar the assistant turned the two hours into a lively situation. I ended up swimming in the flow of white, blues, and blacks, brushing up on what I thought was my long forgotten 2nd grade art class skills to playfully paint a turtle floating about a coral reef. After it was said and done, and we finished the tease of liquid delights warming our cool bellies, Gabe and Shar got all paparazzi on us as my date and I had not only our photos taken, but allowed us to pose with our new souvenir art pieces in hand. A highly recommended draw that'll have me return again in the future, Paint Nite is a splash. PS - I also recommend checking out their site, and signing up early for paintings you might have interest in doing; tickets usually sell out fast. read more

I finally was able to cross off Paint Nite on my bucket list. I took my boyfriend here last night and we both really enjoyed it. Look for deals on groupon! I highly suggest signing up early for paintings you might want to do because they sell out pretty fast. Come early like they suggest you to so you can grab your seats and have time to order food and drink wine. Our instructor Emily was very friendly and made our whole experience fun. It took about 2 hours and never did we feel rushed even with the little break we got in between. You really don't need experience or artist skills to do this so don't even stress about it like my boyfriend did. He thought it wasn't going to look like the actual painting but his turned out great! Can't wait to sign up for our next painting! read more

I went again on 11/14/14 and this time with a different artist. It was FANTASTIC! We came late and Gabe who was not the artist at the place welcomed us and gave us a warm greeting. He even set up a table for us and was very patient with our tardiness. We had a great time! The painting we did was amazing!!! The restaurant and its service was great! This was the best time I have had at paint nite! Great job! I will come back now that I have had a wonderful experience! read more

Paint Nite is a fun way to spend an evening with friends, exploring your creative side, with some vino. Really enjoyed the location, the painting was of a wine glass and Gabe kept it entertaining and interested the whole time. It's a relaxing activity and acrylic paints dry quickly so you can take the painting home right away.The $20 yelp deal is also pretty awesome. read more

Showed up to Plant Nite at Bamboo Lounge in San Jose only to find out the event was not taking place! Did not receive an email cancelling the event. Was trying to look for a phone number on their website and couldn't find much but an email. Still waiting to hear back and waiting for my refund. read more

I'm unable to write a review with my experience for the paint night because I wasn't able to even get through to make a reservation! The "Customer Care Department" of Paint Nite displayed such a lack of customer care. I tried at two different times to make reservations o two different event dates however; due to Paint Nite's response time and then what they called "Technical Difficulties" or "Updating their System" and "Glitches" I was unable to reserve my 2 parties of 4 each because they were now sold out. The above is by no means a reflection on neither the individual paint instructors nor the individual venue.. It's simply the hosted company "Paint Nite" that is very dissatisfying and a poor representation of this intended "Fun Night." I have used The Uncorked, Paint Studios and Paint with a Twist and never had any issues. I highly recommend these other paint studio hosts for any events. read more

Paint Nite, an adult arts and crafts class. An awesome idea to take someone on a date or to go with a group of friends. Paint Nite is hosted at different venues and on different nights so you'll most likely be able to catch one in your area. The set up is pretty simple. You grab a seat; in front of you is your canvas, next to that are some brushes and a wash cup, and a plate of paint. The instructor will introduce him/herself and begin instructing you how to paint the master painting they have up. Our instructor, I forgot her name =(, broke down the techniques and really simplified how to paint the picture. It was fun experience. Definitely something I would do again. If I could suggest something: take advantage of the bar. Get a nice buzz going and let your creativity flourish! You don't wanna be that person who gets self-conscious about their artistic skills. Trust me, I am a terrible artist, but not once did I feel like people were judging my work in any way. read more

I went with my mom. I loved it as much as I thought I was . A real crack up to see my mom concentrating so hard to make perfect grass. After the class, we stayed in the restaurant to further the girls night. If I could change anything it would be the locations. Many of the locations are 3 star restaurants. This PF Changs gave me a very dirty plate. When I told the server he took it behind his station or whatever and seemed to have brought me back the same plate thinking I wouldn't notice . There were other problems with this restaurant. Please find more locations! that's all the suggestion that I have. I will be going to more paint nites tho. read more

Yaymaker - My mom did this one. - Party & Event Planning Near Me

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Super fun! The only reason for four stars is because my location at the Willow Glen Pizza Factory was extremely cramped.. just not enough space to move around and get comfortable. Also, the service was horrible there and it took like 20 minutes to get a drink. I will definitely go back and do this again at a different location though. read more

I'm already a huge fan of Plant Nite's "older sister company", Paint Nite. Plant Nite is a new twist on the Paint Nite entertainment model. Instead of gathering and painting, you get to make a terrarium or table garden. Yes, it's a woman dominated activity, but it can still be quite fun for the supportive boyfriend/husband ;P You go online, select the style/container for your terrarium, show up to the venue, buy a drink, and an Instructor will give you instructions on how to create your own table garden of succulents, rocks, and sand. Christel F. is an amazing instructor!!! Simple and affordable entertainment for a week night with your friends, family, or colleagues. I love Plant Nite and already have my 2nd event set up in a few weeks. I've never had a green thumb, but it's ok because from what I heard, succulents are almost death-proof! They require very little maintenance. The perfect plant for a busy professional. read more

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I have attended about 7 of these events. I have so much fun, and it is a great alternative to the dinner or coffee hangouts with friends. I love to paint, but am not very creative and I really don't have the space or make the time to paint at home. Paint night takes care of the creativity and the space part for me. I get to paint and be artistic, while being entertained. My favorite artist is Gabe. He is funny, entertaining, and a great artist. He provides help and encouragement when needed and most of all there is no pressure to be perfect. In fact, at least one of the classes I attended with a friend I actually painted a different painting than the rest of the class (because I had painted that painting before) and he did a great job of providing me guidance while focusing on the class at large. He is attentive to all his "students". Gabe is also very supportive of non-paint nite activities, in fact he was an artist at an art fair I organize at work. I have attended paint nite with another artist, but wasn't as impressed. I think she was new and probably nervous, but she didn't provide as much feedback or encouragement. She was really nice though. I definitely keep watch for new paintings as this activity never gets old for me! read more

Been wanting to try out this paint nite for a while and was able to get it off groupon for the low low. $18 after discount code, $25 retail on groupon and $45 on the paint nite website itself. There are several locations for paint nite all over bay area and each date is a different painting to paint. Also in San Jose, there are like 3 locations to don't end up going to the wrong location. Was set for the 10th St Brewery location for a painting of night theme with trees and a dog/ cat on the tree branch (A very Christmas vibe painting). Upon arrival, we pulled up into a dark parking lot which looked like some sort of factory( Brewery... makes sense) We didn't know where the entrance was.. so we walked in deeper into the parking lot to see what looks like a garage gate opening with a food truck outside. When we got inside, everyone was pretty much set up with paint and equipment but we arrived right on time to grab a table in the back. Around the garage looking big room, you could see a bar on the side that served beer/wine and pretty much brewery like equipment. In the middle were tables set up for painting. He had radio like music playing in the background and microphone/ speakers set up. It was one of those portable speakers so it wasn't exactly really loud from the back of the room especially because it was a large garage like room. Didn't really check out the food truck outside or the bar so I can't say what's been served. Equipment provided included 3 paintbrushes of different size, palette of 5 colors of paint, apron to keep clean, canvas board to paint, canvas board holder to make painting easier and cup of water to clean your brushes in. Our instructor Fuqua, is what he called himself was very enthusiastic about instructing us on how to paint. He went step by step and walked around the room to make sure everyone was clear on the paint strokes. He allowed us to free style and be rebels with whatever we wanted to paint and had no restrictions. He also made many jokes to keep the crowd entertained and was VERY passionate in what he was teaching. It allowed non artistic people like me to create a painting that seemed impossible in the beginning look spectacular in the end. The crowd seemed like it was more of the elder ages with a few younger age couples but I'm sure this kind of activity is suitable for all ages 21+ (Because of alcohol serving reasons). Overall a very enjoy able first experience and definitely willing to come back for future experiences. Don't forget to wear an extra layer, it's freezing cold. Maybe a cup of wine or beer can warm y'all up!! Picasso for the night!! read more

Plant nite in Willow Glen San Jose CA. Overall, over priced and over baring. #1 Please don't advertise drinks if they aren't provided. #2 The host/owner while knowledgeable was unprofessional and cussed at me several times. Is there Customer service training? read more

Their reservation system is flawed and customer support is really bad. By the time they responded I had already missed an event I had planned with my friends. I think they should have online phone assistance. read more

I went there with my two 9 year old girls on November 10th, 2013. The instructor was Gabriel Nazareta, and the painting we did was DECORATIVE WINE. I had very bad experience with this event. 1. Neither Groupon nor paintnite.com mentioned the age range. Groupon didn't mention age rang when I bought the tickets. Paintnite.com didn't mention it when I made reservation online. Even though the instructor, Gabriel Nazareta said he sent email to everyone, I never get his email, and he couldn't prove it, either. Without doing anything to make up his mistake, the instructor, Gabriel Nazareta gave us two choices. One was sitting on the corner, and the other one was leave. I drove almost one hour to that event, and the two girls were so excited about it. I couldn't just leave without doing anything. I had no choice but sat on that corner where was even closer to the bar with the drinking adults, and we could hardly see the sample paint. It was funny because his reason to put us on that corner was that he didn't want the kids be around the drinking people. We were so lucky that we met the best group, and they all invited us to sit in the front so my girls could actually paint. 2. The instructor, Gabriel Nazareta likes letting people do FREE STYLE which means you would do your own job. Of course he would walk around seeing if you need help. Basically, the most I learned from him was how to use my brush. Maybe some people like it. But I felt so different with the similar events I attend before. I was VERY disappointed. I rather pay more for other painting events. read more

Frankly, it was really awkward watching the new instructor using her "you're a school kid and you will listen to me" voice. I think she is slowing realizing that she is dealing with adults, and finding the right voice. There were other Paint Nite attendees who had gone to proper Paint Nites before (with experienced instructors), and they made a real effort to prop up the instructor and encourage her in the right direction. The other Paint Nite employee there, Inga, seemed to be the life of the event, although she only spoke a few times to welcome people, and then (I think) say goodbye to everyone. I had booked this Paint Nite well in advance, as I really wanted this Sea Turtle painting. I carefully selected an experienced instructor, Brea White, with high ratings (4.0+). Everything was all set, and I planned everything out... yet they switched instructors on me, placing a brand-new, inexperienced instructor to do the painting. It was a little late to switch to another Sea Turtle event, as events tend to sell out very far in advance. Based on what happened to me this night: if your experienced instructor is unexpectedly swapped out for an inexperienced one, and especially if this is your first time going to a Paint Nite, then cancel it! The notification email contains instructions to switch to a different event. Other problems: it was really hard to hear this instructor (the promised sound system with mic never arrived), and I personally thought she turned the music up a little too high at times, as it made my ears hurt. This was Emily's third time hosting a Paint Nite. I think, in time, she will make a good instructor. However, if your main goal is to have fun, then I'd let her get some more experience first. Just based on what happened to me: I'd say that the most important thing to have an enjoyable Paint Nite is to get an experienced and popular instructor. I'd like to find out if they make it a habit to bait & switch using inexperienced instructors in place of their advertised experienced instructors. Unless I somehow obtain a free Paint Nite ticket, I most likely won't want to go back. ========= Adding info about the drinks / food: Drinks (and food) are not covered. You pay for them yourself, with an additional 18% gratuity, as the waiters must dodge between artists and be careful not to knock paintings or paint water cups over, as well as memorize where you sit in a room full of 30+ people (the waiters were pretty impressive at this particular event!). I do recommend eating before coming to the event, as there is really no place to put plates, nor is it easy to eat and paint at the same time. When I left after cleaning up my paint area, it was already 8:50pm, too late to dine at most places. One option might be to come to the restaurant early, get a table for yourself, eat dinner, order a drink, pay your bill, then take your drink with you into the painting area to sip while you wait for the event to start. read more

This was so much fun. We arrived 30 minutes prior to the start of class. Good thing we did since there were only two seats left that were available in the front. Getting here early also gave us time to order an appetizer and eat most of it before we started to paint. Which worked out since once the painting starts you won't have too much time to stop and eat. The instructors move pretty quickly, but they have to since you need to complete the painting in a little over two hours. Even though the teacher moves through quickly, the instructions are very understandable and they walk around to help you. The teacher had a lot of energy and the atmosphere was fun. And don't worry if you have never painted before. This was my first time painting and my picture turned out pretty darn good. At the end of the class everyone walked out with a smile and with a beautiful piece of artwork. read more

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Kevin is an excellent instructor and entertainer! He made this event fun, engaging, and easy for all attendees. I went to a Paint Nite at Concannon Winery and signed up for two more in the Tri Valley the next morning! I'm hooked and can't wait to create more art!! read more

I am obsessed with Paint Nite. I have been to 4 classes and each time have come home with a beautiful painting, each better than the one before. The instructor, Gabe, is funny and he gives step by step instruction on how to paint each picture while still managing to encourage individuality and creativity in each participant. I have worked in the legal industry for almost 15 years and Paint Nite has been a great de-stressor for me. I am signed up for about 6 classes in January and see myself going to at least 2 classes per month next year. The only drawback for me is that I am going to have to find a suitable place in my home to display all these fabulous paintings I am bringing home! I highly recommend Paint Nite to anyone and everyone. read more

PaintNite is an absolutely Wonderful concept for a successful business!!! It has really taken off in the San Jose area due to the professionalism, diligence, and passion of Gabriel Nazareta. Gabe is the Manager of this area's Paint Nite events and does all the screening and interviewing of artists on his staff. As well, he is a very gifted artist and conducts events which are always filled to capacity......Most of the art we produce are his own creations, although sometimes he does choose another artist's work. Even so, Gabe enhances the picture with his own signature style! I have been to 16 PaintNite events (15 of them with Gabe as the instructor). In my humble opinion, Gabe is absolutely the best at what he does because: 1) He is a born teacher 2) He is a talented artist 3) He loves people 4) He is a total professional 4) He is truly passionate about art and helping others to love it too Gabe's events are always a good time. They are a mix of laughter, drinking (if you care to), eating, and painting.....Gabe is always patient and kind and helpful. He demonstrates each part of the painting, providing easy steps so that everyone can be successful! He has an easy going personality and loves to laugh and make everyone feel comfortable and stress-free. Everyone feels good about what they are doing when Gabe is leading us. All 15 events that I have attended have been well received by the attendees. EVERYONE laughs and jokes and paints....and has a great time talking with others and with Gabe. We all leave with a "masterpiece" we can be proud of.......although MOST attendees have never painted anything before attending Gabe's event. I highly recommend PaintNite San Jose.....and most of all, I recommend Gabe. He is a superlative instructor/host. PaintNite is simply one of the best deals you will ever get for 2.5 - 3 hours of pure creative delight. And, Gabe and his staff always provide you with a discount code so that any additional events you attend are only $25 each! What a deal! It's no wonder that many of us are totally addicted and repeat clients! Check out PaintNite and attend one of Gabe's events if possible. You will not regret it! read more

Here is my experience: I threw $90.00 out the window...the event I signed my mom and up for got cancelled. We chose another event, but before I could sign up it also got cancelled. Per an email I received, Paint Nite was to issue me a code to use in order to sign up for a future event, one of which I never received. I have been calling and sending numerous emails over past several weeks to get it straightned out, so I can sign up for an event or get my money returned, however I have yet to get a response back. This is unfortunate since all I want is to attend an event since it looks to be a lot of fun....I guess I will have to get 2 on your side to see if I can get my money back. read more

I did not know I can paint until I went to a Paint Nite. Our instructor was super friendly and helpful! I had a blast and would definitely go again! read more

Fun! Super fun! I love art I realized!! Great people! Great restaurants!! I've been twice!!

I have attended many, many paint nights as it use to be called. The best hostess (teacher) is by far Jennifer Stombs. She is so good at conducting the class, and I have cause to know. If you have a chance to take a class at P.F.Changs jump at it, you will not be disappointed. :) was read more

I have now done 4 Paint Nights - now known as Yaymaker. Three of the four were at the Coupa Café at the Stanford golf course with Troy and one was at the Flavors of India in Santa Clara. They are always such great fun! Both instructors were great and kept the session very lively. I would highly recommend trying these - with friends makes it far more fun!! read more

I had a lot of fun. I do not know how to paint but in the end my painting was pretty darn good. My husband and sis did a good job too. The instructors are helpful and they'll walk around to see how you're doing. We got there extra early so we could save some seats and order some food. I loved it and I would recommend it to anyone! Lots of fun! read more

I've seen Kevin Pride twice so far and he is the best to ever do it! You won't be disappointed! An experience you won't forget.

I went to my first Paint Nite with Kevin at City Beach in Fremont on 9/3 to paint the Underwater scene with the coral and turtle. I have been to VinoArtist in Santa Clara and an ArtSocial event in Burlingame but this is by far my favorite for the following reasons. 1) Paint Nite provides the most seats (about 40-45) and the most interesting settings. City Beach is cool because it has rock climbing, ping pong tables, basketball courts, a restaurant and a bar! Paint Nite exposes you to hidden gems around the Bay Area that may not be properly advertised and promoted. I will definitely be going back to City Beach for a weekend outing with my boyfriend or family. 2) The instructor, Kevin, was the BEST. He is clever, funny and encouraging. His humor may include sexual innuendo, profanity and vulgarity but let's be real; everyone who attends Paint Nite is over 21+ (for the 21+ venues) and if you do not enjoy a little stand up comedy during your class, you need to not take life so seriously. Yes, everyone wants their paintings to look nice but this is for FUN. Kevin was very interactive and made it clear that the number one goal of Paint Nite is to have fun and drink creatively. 3) It's a two-hour event for $25 (if you use LivingSocial). While VinoArtist and ArtSocial were a lot of fun, a three-hour painting class can be a little too long. I love the pace and energy of Paint Nite. I will absolutely be back to Paint Nite; I have already booked my seats on 9/16 and 10/29. I am excited to see other instructors but I am going to try to go to Kevin's future classes as well. His ability to be so personable, genuine and helpful is 75% of why I choose Paint Nite over any other painting party! Thank you, Paint Nite! read more

Took my girlfriend on a date to paint nite and we both really enjoyed it. Gabe, our instructor, was really funny and helpful during our session! Each session has a different painting, and they have multiple sessions around the Bay Area every night. It's nice how you get to see what you're actually painting and the difficulty before selecting a section online so be sure to choose one that you like! For a tip, come here with your SO and you can take home each other's painting to hang up at your own place. read more

Gabe is awesome! totally recommend people go try this! it is fun and great experience!

Lots of fun, relaxation, and creative energy. Good music! Our instructor was Willis. He was energetic, informative, and fun. The paints were better quality than at other events I have been to. The brushes were not as beat up as well. The event is at restaurants so you purchase your own snacks and drinks which is different than other similar events I have been to the area. It is an enjoyable date night or night out with friends. Would highly recommend and try again. read more

My friends from work and I attended Plant Nite at Beer Baron in Pleasanton and we had a great time! Our instructor, Ethel-Lynn, was organized, informative, helpful and so fun! She explained everything in detail and had an abundance of plants and materials to choose from. We are looking forward to our next event with her. Thanks again El! We had a blast! read more