Meet the Artist Behind Social House
Hey my name is Emmanuel Kitchener-based creative workshop company bringing art, connection, and good vibes to venues across Ontario.
Social House by Justine Fraser logo[/caption]
Hi, I’m Justine
I’m a Kitchener-based journalist, workshop host, and the founder of Social House. I believe creativity should be accessible, social, and — most importantly — fun. You don’t need to be “artsy” to make something beautiful. You just need someone to show you where to start.
With a background in storytelling, floral design, and community events, I started Social House because I wanted to create the kind of evenings I was always looking for — ones where you put your phone down, get your hands a little messy, and actually connect with the people around you.
Whether it’s a painting night at a cozy café, a watercolour session at a local brewery, or a floral workshop at a wine bar, every Social House event is about slowing down, getting creative, and having a genuinely good time. No experience required — just curiosity and a willingness to try something new.
When I’m not running workshops, you’ll find me experimenting with new art techniques, scouting venues across Ontario, drinking way too much coffee, and dreaming up the next Social House experience.
The Social House Story
Social House started with a simple idea: what if art wasn’t something you had to be “good at” to enjoy?
I’d always loved making things — painting, arranging flowers, crafting — but I noticed that most of the adults around me had stopped creating altogether. They’d say things like “I’m not creative” or “I can’t even draw a stick figure.” And I thought, that’s such a shame, because the joy of making something with your hands doesn’t require talent. It just requires showing up.
So I started hosting small painting nights at a local café in Waterloo. I’d set up canvases, pour the paint, and walk a room full of nervous beginners through a painting step by step. By the end of the night, everyone was laughing, showing off their work, and asking when the next one was.
That was the moment I knew this was something worth building. Not just art workshops — but spaces where people could slow down, connect, and surprise themselves with what they’re capable of.
Since then, Social House has grown from those first café nights into a full calendar of workshops across Waterloo Region, Guelph, Cambridge, and beyond. We’ve hosted hundreds of guests, partnered with incredible local venues, and built a community of people who come back again and again — not because they’re becoming master painters, but because they love the experience.
Why Social House?
🤝 Community First
We partner with local cafes, breweries, and venues across Ontario because the best art happens in places that already feel like home. Every event supports local businesses and strengthens the creative community. We’re not a franchise — we’re your neighbours.🎨 All Skill Levels
Never picked up a paintbrush? Perfect. Our workshops are designed so that complete beginners walk out surprised by what they made. Experienced artists are welcome too — we keep it loose and fun. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s the experience.💛 Woman-Owned
Social House is a small, independent business growing from the ground up in Waterloo Region. When you book a workshop, you’re supporting an independent artist and the local creative economy. Every ticket matters, and I’m grateful for every single one.🌿 Thoughtfully Curated
From the venues we choose to the materials we use, everything is intentional. We hand-pick locations with great atmosphere, source quality supplies, and design each workshop to feel special — not mass-produced. It’s an experience, not just an activity.📱 Real Connection
In a world of screens and scrolling, Social House is about putting your phone down and being present. Our workshops create genuine human connection — strangers become friends, couples reconnect, and coworkers see each other in a new light.🎉 Unforgettable Experiences
People don’t just come to our workshops — they remember them. Whether it’s a first date, a milestone birthday, or a random Tuesday that turned into something special, Social House creates moments that stick with you.Social House by the Numbers
500+
Happy guests and counting
30+
Workshops hosted across Ontario
8
Venue partners (and growing)
100%
Of guests say they’d come back
What People Say About Us
“Justine has this incredible ability to make everyone feel welcome and capable. I went in thinking I’d be terrible and left genuinely proud of what I made. The whole evening was so well organized and fun.”
— Nicole B., Waterloo
“I’ve been to a few paint nights at different places, and Social House is hands-down the best. The venues are great, the instruction is clear, and there’s a warmth to the whole experience that you don’t get elsewhere.”
— David L., Guelph
Want to Collaborate?
I’m always looking for new venues, creative partners, and opportunities to bring Social House to new communities. Whether you own a café, brewery, or event space — or you have an idea for a collaboration — I’d love to hear from you.