Creative Changes Blends Art and Wellness in Unique Studio

Business: Creative Changes, 140 Harrison St. in Oak Park

Owner: Terry Mueller 

Founded: January 2009

Write a review of Creative Changes in our business directory. 

How did the business come to be?

One of the things I teach is called Process Painting, which uses creative process to help people discover ways they stop from full expression in creativity and in life.  Process Painting also helps deepen the connection with intuition, where creativity flows.  

I had been painting for many years with a teacher in Elmhurst, and began teaching at her studio in 2003.  I really wanted to open my own studio here in Oak Park and began looking in 2007 for a place. I discovered the Arts District and felt it would be the perfect location for my studio, and, voila, the perfect spot became available in November 2008 and I took it! I signed the lease and began the build out and we opened in 2009.

I am also a 20-year veteran Massage Therapist and Wellness Coach, which is my main work. The studio also provides me with a place for my practice and to teach classes in detoxification, weight loss and stress management.

Why did you choose the area? 

I chose the Arts District for several reasons ... the location was perfect because of the kitschy feel of the place, the coffee shops (essential to painters) and surrounding creative business owners.  

I love the feel there, the festivals and ease of access (public transportation, expressways and parking). The price was right and the landlord is in the same line of work as me, so he is a kindred spirit! Who could ask for more?

What does your business offer?

Creative Changes' motto is: Change your life in creative ways.  I consider myself to be a Personal Transformation Specialist and my mission is to help people embrace change and transform their lives.  

I do this with classes in Process Painting, Weight Loss, Detoxification and Personal Growth as well as offering individual sessions in bodywork and coaching.  The spectrum of my work is so broad that I needed to develop a more comprehensive website: http://thebesthealthcoach.com

What's something interesting about your business your customers might not know?

We are also home to the Bicycle Guild, which is a business dedicated to elevating the standards in the bicycle industry. My life partner, Christopher Wallace, is a master educator who specializes in bicycle education for professionals and bike enthusiasts. Check out his website: www.bicycleguild.com. (Formerly known as Holistic Cycles.)

What's your most popular product or service?

Personal transformation. 

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