Painting with a Twist Franchise Meets Franchise Interviews

Cathy Deano and Renee Maloney, owners of a business called Painting with a Twist, had been friends for several years and were always coming up with new business ideas together. Six years after Hurricane Katrina, they've found great success with one that met a unique need in post-Katrina New Orleans — a place to kick back, relax and have fun with friends.

"We talked about concepts ranging from architectural salvage to science fairs," said Deano. But when they came upon the idea of owning a business that hosted "painting parties" — where people come, learn how to paint, have a glass of wine and enjoy each other's company — they knew they had a good one.

We wanted to do something to lift the spirits of people where we lived after Hurricane Katrina," Deano said. "Not only was New Orleans ready for a change, but so were we."

The pair opened their store, called Corks N' Canvas, in Mandeville, La., in 2007.

The business was quickly a success and the two opened three more studios in the New Orleans area.