14 Years, Countless Memories, and One Very Special Cheese Shop
Some people have a favorite restaurant.
Some have a favorite coffee shop.
For Patrick and me, it's The Welsh Rabbit Cheese Shop.
For years, The Welsh Rabbit has been one of our favorite places to gather, celebrate, and enjoy life's simple pleasures: amazing cheese, wonderful wine, and great company. In fact, it holds a very special place in our hearts because we were the first couple to become engaged there.
This October, I'm thrilled to return as an artist for a special Community Table Paint & Sip event and invite others to create new memories in a place that has been part of so many of mine.
Long before I displayed artwork there, long before I taught painting classes, and long before there was a Community Table event, we were regular visitors sharing cheese boards, discovering new wines, celebrating milestones, and introducing friends and family to one of our favorite places in Fort Collins.
What started as a place to enjoy exceptional cheese slowly became so much more.
Over fourteen years, The Welsh Rabbit has been woven into the fabric of our lives. It has been the backdrop for celebrations, friendships, creative inspiration, and countless evenings filled with laughter and conversation.
Some of our favorite memories were made around its tables. The people we've met there and the experiences we've shared are part of what makes it feel less like a business and more like home.
More Than a Cheese Shop
Anyone who has wandered through Old Town has likely spotted the iconic rabbit sign welcoming visitors inside.
For many, it's a destination for artisan cheese and wine. For us, it became a place filled with memories.
The Place Where We Said "Yes"
After years of making memories at The Welsh Rabbit, it became the setting for one of the most important moments of our lives. Patrick and I became the first couple to get engaged there. One year later we signed our marriage certificate over the cheese case.
It's not the kind of engagement story most people expect. But it's perfectly us.
Looking back, it's hard to imagine a more fitting place. By that point, The Welsh Rabbit had already become such an important part of our lives. What better place to begin a new chapter than somewhere that already held so many cherished memories?
The Welsh Rabbit and My Artistic Journey
Fourteen years ago, I never would have imagined that my relationship with The Welsh Rabbit would eventually include displaying my artwork on its walls. Like many good stories, it started with a conversation.
After I began painting, I was chatting with the team at The Welsh Rabbit during one of our visits. They were excited to learn that I was an artist and told me they were just starting the First Friday Art Walk. They asked if I would be interested in being one of the featured artists.
Of course, I said yes.
At the time, I was still finding my footing as an artist and exploring where this creative journey might take me. Having a place I already loved believe in my work and invite me to share it with the community meant more than they probably realized.
That First Friday opportunity became one of my first experience exhibiting artwork publicly. There is something special about seeing your paintings hanging in a place filled with people, conversation, laughter, and community. It wasn't a traditional gallery setting, and that's what made it so welcoming.
Over the years, my connection with The Welsh Rabbit continued to grow. My artwork returned through exhibits, art walks, special events, and displays, allowing me to share my creative journey in a place that had already become such an important part of my life.
Looking back now, it's remarkable how a simple conversation over fourteen years of friendship helped create opportunities that continue to this day. The Welsh Rabbit didn't just support my artwork. They supported me. And for that, I will always be grateful.
Inspired by a Place I Love
When a place becomes part of your life for over a decade, it eventually finds its way onto a canvas. The Welsh Rabbit's historic storefront, distinctive sign, and welcoming charm made it a natural subject. Painting The Welsh Rabbit wasn't just about documenting a building. It was about capturing a place that has played an important role in our lives.
Every painting tells a story. Some paintings tell your own story.
Pull Up a Chair at the Community Table
On Wednesday, October 28, from 5:30 to 7:30 PM, we'll gather around the Community Table at The Welsh Rabbit Cheese Shop for an evening of creativity, conversation, and connection. Whether you've been painting for years or have never picked up a brush, you'll be guided step-by-step and leave with your own completed artwork. All supplies are included plus a glass of wine and snacks, so all you need to bring is yourself.
If spending an evening surrounded by creativity, conversation, and the welcoming atmosphere of The Welsh Rabbit sounds like your kind of night, I'd love for you to join us.
Seats are limited around the Community Table, and once they're filled, they're filled. Whether you're coming with friends, planning a unique date night, or treating yourself to a creative evening out, I hope you'll save your spot and become part of this next chapter.
Pull up a chair, pick up a paintbrush, and create a memory with us.
Reserve your seat today: One Glass, One Slate-A Painting Event At The Community Table | Paintings By Jf
Community Table Paint & SipThe Welsh Rabbit Cheese ShopOctober 28 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM $55 per person (all supplies included)
I can't wait to share an evening of creativity, community, and a few new memories around one of my favorite tables in Fort Collins.
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