Today we’d like to introduce you to Nitu Singh.
Hi Nitu, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I worked as a software consultant for 25 years. But In 2023, family health issues required me to return to India to care of my parents for 2 months. The experience prompted me to reflect what I truly wanted from the next chapter of my life. I decided I was done with the corporate world. My kids were in high school, I’d worked long enough, and I thought I’d just enjoy my time.
But “Retirement” didn’t suit me. After just four months of TV, Books and volunteering, I realized I needed something more meaningful. Every night, I would think, ‘I need to do something else with my time’.
The answer came from an unexpected place: my fondest childhood memories. One of my happiest memories is doing crafts with my mom. We connect at such a different level when we’re crafting together. I realized this brings me personal joy and something I wanted to share with my community.
So I started looking into craft business opportunities. Because of lack of prior business experience I faced various challenges to start business on my own. That’s when I discovered The Hotspot Studios franchise opportunity. Unlike single-project craft studios, The Hotspot Studios offers six different creative activities: pottery painting, candle making, mosaics, succulent and fairy gardens, canvas painting, and slime making, with an optional body scrub making workshop.
This seem like a perfect fit as I wanted to bring something to my community that wasn’t available.
So, after 25 years as a software consultant, here I am – the proud owner of The Hotspot Studios in St. Johns County: a vibrant creative space that’s quickly becoming the community’s favorite gathering spot.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The struggle was more internal than external. No one in my family has any business experience. We were at the stage of life where we were looking ahead for retired life and not take any more responsibilities. But I was not able to shake the feeling of restlessness. Also during this time I faced some personal losses. It was a tough to make the decision. But once the decision was made, I was certainly not prepared for what was to come next. I soon realized the realities of acquiring commercial real estate. Even though we had a great business concept and proven record with the Franchise, landlords were not ready for leasing space to us. It took lots of patience and perseverance for 8 months to open my studio.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about The Hot Spot Studios St Johns FL?
We are a walk-in friendly art studio located at 550 Durbin Pavilion Dr. that prioritizes “making memories” over just making products. Our Core Creative Offerings are:
Pottery Painting: The classic “paint-your-own” experience. Our fired pottery become food-safe (dishwasher/microwave safe) which make great functional art pieces.
Candle Making: A trendy addition where customers choose shapes, scents, and colors.
Canvas Painting: Traditional painting with the option for stencils or guided “Sip ‘n Paint” events.
Mosaics: We offer wood-base mosaics using gems/tiles that make beautiful home decor pieces.
Custom slime: Kids (and adults) come and make slime choosing their own color, glitter and toppings.
Gnome/Fairy Gardens: Customers create their Gnome and fairy gardens using Live succulents and decorative materials.
The Hot Spot Studios has quickly become more than just a craft destination; it’s a hub for community engagement and charitable giving. I actively seek partnerships with local organizations, particularly those focused on education and wellness. I’ve reached out to PTSOs and booster clubs to host fundraising events, helping schools generate funds while providing families with memorable creative experiences.
I want to support the community that has supported me. My approach to business reflects my values of giving back and creating meaningful connections. The studio regularly hosts special events that bring different groups together, from corporate team-building sessions to assisted living facilities; each fostering new relationships within the St. Johns community.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
To me, success isn’t measured in the number of pieces fired in the kiln, but in the transformation of my guests. I define success by the ‘aha!’ moment when someone who claims they aren’t artistic walks out with a beautiful, custom-made candle or pottery piece they’re proud of. It’s also in the small voices—hearing a child tell their parents that The Hot Spot is their favorite place in the world makes every long hour worth it. We aren’t just selling crafts; we’re providing a space for confidence and memories.
Pricing:
- Pottery – $20 to $120
- Candles – $24 to $34
- Canvas – $22 to $48
- Mosaic – $22 to $60
- Garden – $22 to $60
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thehotspotstudios.com/st-johns-fl/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehotspotstjohnsfl
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehotspotstjohnsfl
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-hot-spot-studios-saint-johns
