Cheers!

Making your way in the world today takes everything you've got

Taking a break from all your worries sure would help a lot

Wouldn't you like to get away?

Sometimes you want to go!

where everybody knows your name

and they're always glad you came...

This theme song calls to me.  How wonderful must it be to have a place where you can relax, be yourself, feel welcome, and build lasting friendships?  

I know one guy who gets it right:

(Sorry, Cary…)

…and he very kindly commissioned two paintings of his own personal "Cheers"-esque bars.  If his photo doesn't already say it: Best. Groomsman. Ever.

Above is Bill's Gay Nineties, a now-defunct and sorely missed establishment in NYC.  I adore the charming old details in the space, like the old boxing posters, light fixtures, and gingham tablecloths.  See how there's cool light coming in from the window, but really warm light radiating from the chandeliers?  Tricky, tricky.

Above is a painting of The Virginian in Charlottesville… everyone's favorite UVa bar.  (Remember Jager Bomb Wednesdays?)  You've seen another of my Virginian paintings here!

I LOVE that this client was so creative with his gifts.  He gave these as wedding presents to two grooms, to commemorate the countless fun hours they spent at these bars.  One of the couples wrote me the sweetest, most touching thank-you note… if they like the painting half as much as I liked their thank-you note, then I'd say the gift-giver did a pretty great job.

Would love to do more of these as we dance through wedding season!  Looking for similarly creative bridesmaids and groomsmen to send me their best bar photos.  Painting interiors is a blast.