Antima Jain and Pooja Choudhary have launched a Color Me Mine franchise in Edina, Minnesota, marking a significant step in their entrepreneurial journey. The duo, both immigrants from India, pooled approximately $300,000 of their personal funds to open the pottery-painting studio, which officially opened its doors in March 2025. Their venture not only reflects their shared passion for creativity but also aims to foster community connections through artistic expression.
Their partnership began 11 years ago when they met through mutual friends. Living just three minutes apart, they quickly discovered common interests, including a love for creative projects and raising children. As their children grew more independent, they began to explore the idea of starting a business together. After visiting a nearby Color Me Mine studio in 2023, they were captivated by the vibrant atmosphere and organized environment, leading them to pursue a franchise opportunity.
Building a Community Space
Color Me Mine allows customers to select pottery pieces, paint them, and have them glazed and fired, creating a unique and personalized experience. Recently, a customer even used the studio to propose to his girlfriend, showcasing the emotional connections that can be formed in such creative spaces. Jain and Choudhary were thrilled to facilitate this memorable moment, reinforcing their commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all.
Franchise Benefits and Challenges
Choosing to franchise rather than starting an independent studio provided Jain and Choudhary with essential support and guidance. They appreciated the structured framework that Color Me Mine offered, which helped alleviate some of the uncertainties associated with running a new business. “Everything was laid out for us,” Jain noted, emphasizing the ongoing support they receive, including updates to operational systems.
However, the realities of ownership have not been without challenges. Jain highlighted the difficulty of maintaining a full staff, as many employees are part-time students. This staffing issue requires continuous attention, which they had not fully anticipated before opening. Additionally, they face the emotional task of communicating with customers when pottery pieces do not turn out as expected, although such instances are rare.
Community Engagement and Growth Strategies
To attract customers, Jain and Choudhary have actively engaged with the local community. They joined the local chamber of commerce, participated in art festivals, and organized special events for holidays like Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. Their marketing strategy also includes running promotions and collaborating with local organizations for fundraising efforts, which have proven effective in building a loyal customer base.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Jain and Choudhary have ambitious goals for their franchise. They aspire to open additional locations and aim to rank among the top five Color Me Mine studios in sales. Their partnership, rooted in friendship and shared vision, positions them well for future success. “If I open another studio, I’ll do it with Pooja,” Jain remarked, underscoring the strength of their collaboration.
As they navigate the complexities of business ownership, Jain and Choudhary remain committed to fostering a creative community space that not only allows for artistic expression but also builds lasting memories for their customers. Their journey exemplifies the potential of immigrant entrepreneurs in the U.S. and the impact of community-focused businesses.
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