HOPEWELL TWP. – There's a new place in Green Garden Plaza for families, date nights, group gatherings or any individuals looking for fun and a keepsake.

Indulge your inner creativity at Fresh Memories Studio, in the former Radio Shack standalone building next to Giant Eagle.

"We are a walk-in anytime crafting studio," owner Jim Rhodes said. "What that means is that you can come in anytime during business hours and pick from over two dozen different projects. We do everything from traditional canvases and ceramics to the latest popular Pinterest crafts, like fairy jars, slime making and acrylic pours. We even have a splatter paint room."

From ceramic gnomes to snowman-themed porch decorations; and pop art parties to basic crochet classes, Fresh Memories has an artsy object and project for you, no matter what your artistic talent level is.

"That's why we have an artist on staff. She helps you and walks you through every different project that you have."

Rhodes spent almost six months extensively renovating the building, which had sat empty since well before the pandemic.

Setting the peaceful mood are a wall painting of Fred Rodgers and a cutout of "The Joy of Painting" host Bob Ross.

In the back, Rhodes built a private room where Fresh Memories can host parties, classes and events.

"We are planning on having an event with the Beaver County Big Brothers and Big Sisters organization next month," Rhodes said. "We also worked with the Hopewell PTA and did crafting with the kids at the middle school dance last month. We are also doing some pretty fun classes this month like paint-your-pet night, a mommy-and-me event and a pop art party. We have had some really good reactions from the local community so far and we try to make it a place that is fun for all ages."

With Valentine's Day on the horizon, "We have a couple different paint-and-sips for couples, and we're also probably doing a couple date nights in the month of February."

For BYOB events, people can walk next door to Giant Eagle to buy their beverages.

In warmer months, Fresh Memories hopes to host outdoor events on the adjacent large lawn.

Fresh Memories hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily except Mondays.

The website at freshmemoriesstudio.com says "At Fresh Memories Studio, we feature well-equipped facilities and instructors who will encourage you to develop your own personal style over time. Explore your passion for creativity in a welcoming, friendly environment."

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Scott Tady is entertainment editor at The Times and easy to reach at stady@timesonline.com.

This article originally appeared on Beaver County Times: Fresh Memories await at new Hopewell crafting studio