Today we’d like to introduce you to Brittany D.
Hi Brittany, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My story has never followed a straight line, and honestly, I wouldn’t want it to.
I served in the United States Navy for over 11 years, where I learned leadership, resilience, and how to keep moving forward through challenges. Outside of the military, I spent years working with individuals with disabilities, including my younger brother, who has Angelman Syndrome. That experience taught me patience, empathy, and the importance of creating spaces where people feel accepted and supported.
My love for pottery and creative experiences began in Chicago. What started as curiosity quickly turned into a passion. I fell in love with the way art brings people together, breaks down barriers, and gives people permission to simply enjoy being creative. Over time, I became deeply involved in the pottery community, helping teach classes, build programs, and create memorable experiences for thousands of people.
Eventually, that passion brought me to Eugene, Oregon. After relocating, I co-founded Color Cocktail Factory Eugene with the vision of creating a welcoming, affordable, and community-focused art studio. We wanted to build a place where anyone could walk in—regardless of experience—and leave feeling proud of what they created.
The journey hasn’t always been easy. Like many entrepreneurs, I’ve faced setbacks, unexpected obstacles, and moments where I had to completely rethink my plans. But those challenges only reinforced what I believe: creativity isn’t just about making art. It’s about adaptability, problem-solving, and finding beauty even when things don’t go according to plan.
Today, my mission is bigger than pottery. I love creating opportunities for people to connect with each other, support local artists, and discover talents they never knew they had. Whether it’s a first-time pottery student, a local artist hosting their first workshop, a family making memories together, or someone simply looking for a creative escape, I believe art has the power to bring people together in meaningful ways.
At the heart of everything I do is community. My goal has never been to build just a business—it’s been to build a place where people feel inspired, welcomed, and capable of creating something amazing.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely has not been a smooth road, but I believe the challenges are what shaped both me and the business.
One of the biggest challenges was starting over in a new city. I had built my experience and passion for pottery in Chicago, where I learned the industry and developed my love for creating experiences through art. When I moved to Eugene, I had to rebuild from the ground up—new community, new customers, and new relationships.
Like many small business owners, I’ve also faced financial risks, unexpected setbacks, and the constant balancing act of wearing multiple hats at once. At different points, I’ve been a business owner, instructor, marketer, event planner, customer service representative, and maintenance crew all in the same day.
Most recently, we faced significant challenges with our studio location and had to quickly adapt our business model while continuing to serve our community. It was frustrating at times, but it reminded me why resilience is so important as an entrepreneur. Every obstacle forced us to become more creative, flexible, and determined.
Outside of business, I’ve also balanced military service, caregiving responsibilities, and entrepreneurship. Those experiences taught me that success isn’t about avoiding challenges—it’s about learning how to navigate them with grace and persistence.
Looking back, I wouldn’t change much. Every setback taught me something valuable, and every challenge helped me become a stronger leader. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that growth often comes from the moments that test us the most.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As a creative entrepreneur and co-founder of Color Cocktail Factory Eugene, my specialty isn’t just pottery—it’s creating experiences that bring people together.
I fell in love with ceramics while living in Chicago and was drawn to how art can connect people from all walks of life. When I moved to Eugene, I wanted to bring that same sense of creativity, community, and accessibility with me. My goal has always been to make art feel approachable, whether someone is touching clay for the first time or has years of experience.
At Color Cocktail Factory Eugene, we focus on hands-on creative experiences that encourage people to step away from their screens, connect with others, and discover something new about themselves. From pottery classes and date nights to community workshops and artist collaborations, we strive to create memorable experiences rather than simply teach a skill.
What I’m most proud of is the community we’ve built. I’ve watched complete strangers become friends, couples create lasting memories together, local artists gain confidence to share their work, and individuals discover creative talents they never knew they had. Those moments are far more rewarding than any piece of pottery.
I also take pride in making creativity accessible. As someone with a background in supporting individuals with disabilities and serving in the military, I understand that everyone learns differently and deserves a welcoming environment. Inclusivity has always been an important part of what we do.
What sets me apart is that I don’t see art as the end goal—I see it as the vehicle. The pottery, painting, and workshops are important, but what truly matters is the connection, confidence, and sense of community that people leave with. If someone walks out smiling, feeling inspired, and excited to create again, then I’ve done my job.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
If there’s one thing I’d like readers to take away from my story, it’s that you don’t have to be an artist to be creative.
So many people walk into a pottery studio and immediately say, “I’m not artistic.” By the end of the experience, they’re laughing, creating, and surprising themselves. That’s one of the most rewarding parts of what I do.
I also want people to know that community matters. We live in a world where it’s easy to become disconnected from one another. Art has a unique ability to bring people together, create conversations, and remind us that we’re all capable of creating something meaningful.
As a veteran, caregiver, entrepreneur, and artist, I’ve learned that life rarely goes according to plan. Some of the most beautiful opportunities come from unexpected detours. My journey certainly hasn’t been perfect, but every challenge has helped shape the person I am today.
For anyone who is thinking about trying something new, starting a business, learning a skill, or pursuing a creative passion, my advice is simple: don’t wait until you feel ready. Most of us never feel completely ready. Start anyway.
You might surprise yourself with what you’re capable of creating.
Pricing:
- 25$
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.colorcocktailfactory.com
- Instagram: Color Cocktail Factory
