Out On A Whim: A Great Place to Play and Celebrate

Moms are always looking for places to enjoy a night out as well as places to have a child's birthday party. Glen Ellyn has several options, but one of my favorite places in town is Out On A Whim.  It is a studio where you can paint your own pottery and it is located on Duane Street across from the Glen Ellyn Public Library. 

The owner, Gretchen Hoenecke, is a longtime Glen Ellyn resident.  The studio has open hours where one can come and look through a variety of items to paint. These include cookie jars, banks, dog bowls, and holiday themed items.  Once you make your choice, you then choose your paint colors and spend a relaxing time sitting at a table painting.  Gretchen is also happy to show you different ways to add technique and creativity to your piece using various tools.

In addition to open studio time, Gretchen offers special events and school vacation camps for kids.  She plans nights out for girlfriends, kids and families, as well as offers themed events with food and drink.  My children have participated in several of the vacation and summer camps.  There is a wide variety from which to choose. In the past, some of them have included, clay camp, garden camp, mixed media and wood projects.  The camps are available as half days and as full days where kids bring a lunch.  I remember one we did with items from the environment. Gretchen took the kids on a walk to Lake Ellyn where they searched the grounds for items they could use to decorate a wood picture frame.  My boys, ages 9 and 11 loved it! 

Out On A Whim also offers birthday party opportunities. My daughter has been to several parties there and has loved them.  They offer different party options starting with the basic party. At this party, you choose from a particular selection of figurines and mugs.  There are extra activities for the kids after they finish.  You can bring birthday treats from home as well.  The next package includes invitations, thank you notes, cup cakes and juice or water.  Paper products and treat bags are also included.

Out On A Whim has a website that has a monthly calendar with daily hours and activities listed.  I was excited to see some new party options when I logged on last week.  Gretchen is now doing craft and clay parties as well.  She is also more than happy to help Girl Scout troops fulfill badge requirements, or just have a fun outing.

For more information including prices and other options, please check out the website at outonawhim.info or call 630-790-8200.