Life & Work with Sladjana Ahmetovic of Mesa

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sladjana Ahmetovic.

Thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, how did you get started?
Thank you for being interested in my story! I appreciate the question. Pretty Dope Paintings is a mobile art studio; we host guided art classes that are cannabis friendly. The way the art studio started was out of my dining room. During COVID-19, everyone was forced to find creative ways to get through that reality; I was recovering from an ankle injury and invited friends to partake in what I was already doing by myself, painting. Arizona went recreational that same year, and I was in the cannabis community; at home, the mixture of cannabis and creativity just complimented the experience for us. As soon as my injury improved, I opened the experience to other cannabis-friendly artists! So, in 2021, the first open Pretty Dope Paintings class happened, and the LLC was formed.

It wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Every industry has its bumps in the road. Mine has not been an exception; being a woman-owned business in this industry is tough. As an entrepreneur starting from scratch, you must understand the risks. Your character will be tested, and your values will be questioned, too. You must be prepared to transition with the way of the road though. Have a plan B, and learn who to work with. Be direct and intentional with your purpose, and work with people who share your values and business goals. My struggles were learning who to work with and needing more capital. I was financing it from my 9-5 job. Don’t be afraid to be broke, either. That’s just what it is. Expecting things to be sugar-coated will only have you disappointed. To get what you want, you must be willing to do what it takes. In life, you have to be a problem solver, which will be the best characteristic you can bring to the entrepreneurial world.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Great question! I help businesses obtain financing for their commercial needs with my 9-5 primarily commercial real estate. Watching others chase their dreams inspired me; I’m an immigrant from Bosnia, and I always wanted to be grateful for the opportunity to pursue my happiness and freedom. I got the courage & leap of faith and invest in my passion. I love art and color, and I also love cannabis. Locally, I’m known for the puff & paint classes that are hosted monthly. My mobile art studio was recognized in 2022 by Phoenix New Times “Best Way To Puff & Paint.” We welcome all skill-level artist to join and enhance their experience by bringing their own cannabis. We also host private events to bring the studio to you for your event. I’m most proud to be a mom. That’s my most significant accomplishment in life. I’m proud of the attendees’ feedback about what the class did for them. Those moments let me know that the struggles are worth it.

We all have different ways of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
Success is having a warm bed to lay down in, food to eat, and a roof over your head. Everything else is a bonus. Success is also your path to your dreams. It’s not a single definition of it, because what success is to me can be different for someone else. However you define it, just go after it and be consistent!

Pricing:

• Classes range from $35-$60 depending on the event

Contact Info:

• Website: Www.prettydopepaintings.com
• Instagram: @prettydopepaintings