We had the good fortune of connecting with Abraham Stopani and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Abraham, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
When Grace and I started looking a business opportunities we knew we wanted to do something fun and different. We were introduced to the idea of AR Workshop and knew right away that it would be a great fit for Colorado Springs. The idea of bringing people together to make beautiful things and sort of hosting a party every evening really spoke to us.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
The thing I love most about the projects at AR Workshop is that they’re all customizable, from the colors you paint the stencil and background to the stencils themselves. Sure, most everyone chooses the predesigned options but every so often people branch out. When someone comes in with a creative idea they don’t have to tools to create, and ask me to help them make it a reality, I can’t help but get excited. I have an extensive graphic design background so there’s not much we can’t handle. We’ve done everything from “the Martian” quotes, to martial arts weapon racks, and faux barrel head side table tops. It’s fun to make someone’s idea become a reality and see the joy it brings them in the process.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
There’s so much great stuff to do in Colorado Springs. When our friends and family come to town we’ve always got to hit the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, AR Workshop (of course) and the Icon Cinemas in Northgate. Atmosphere Gastro Pub is always a hit, as is Salsa Brava!
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My wife Grace has been absolutely amazing to have as a business partner. AR Workshop Colorado Springs would literally not be around anymore without her. During COVID she was able to use her experience from her other full time job to find us county grant money that kept us afloat in those lean times! She’s always ready to help, whether I need a class taught or a sample made. We are an effective team.
Website: https://www.arworkshop.com/coloradosprings
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arworkshopcosprings/?hl=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ARWorkshopCOSprings/
Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/ar-workshop-colorado-springs-colorado-springs