Rhonda Turner’s Stories, Lessons & Insights

We’re excited to introduce you to Rhonda Turner. Check out our conversation below.

Rhonda, we really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our journeys and how our experiences shape our worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one:

What do you think is misunderstood about your business?

The Rustic Brush is often seen as an activity to enjoy when you want to have fun and do something entertaining. And yes, we are fun—but there’s so much more to us than a good time.

Crafting at The Rustic Brush isn’t just about a fun night out. It’s a powerful tool for:

Stress relief
Self-expression
Connection with others

Did you know that just 45 minutes of painting can lower your stress hormone (cortisol) in 75% of people? Science says: art + deep breaths = lower stress.

The Rustic Brush is therapeutic, restoring, and comforting. We’re here to help you unwind, reconnect with yourself, and find joy in creating something with your own hands. The sense of achievement and knowing you created something yourself builds confidence and esteem.

And yes—we just so happen to be super fun in the process.

You need us more than you know. Join us for a session and see how good it feels to create, decompress, and just be.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?

My name is Rhonda Turner, and I’m the CEO of The Rustic Brush Franchise. We currently have five locations in Houston and the surrounding areas, and with franchising opportunities, we hope to expand across the country soon.

What led me to The Rustic Brush was the social environment—where people can work on different projects while enjoying the same creative, communal space. The instructions are concise and simple, giving guests the freedom to talk, laugh, and connect while creating their own masterpiece. I was sold on the concept, especially since I was looking for something meaningful and fulfilling to do in retirement.

The Rustic Brush Franchise offers instructor-led sessions designed to guide guests in creating beautiful, one-of-a-kind wooden home décor signs and projects. These creations are perfect for the home, business, gifts, and more. But the true joy comes from the process—seeing each guest take pride in what they’ve made with their own hands, even with little to no experience.

We provide all the materials and step-by-step guidance. Our expert instructors support each guest while also encouraging creativity and personalization. Whether you’re painting your favorite quote, crafting a family name sign, or experimenting with colors and textures, each project becomes a reflection of you.

For many, crafting at The Rustic Brush is more than just a fun night out—it’s therapeutic, empowering, and a rewarding creative outlet. And we just so happen to make it an unforgettable experience every time.

Who taught you the most about work?

My entrepreneurial spirit was shaped early on by my parents. Both worked for major companies while I was growing up, but I watched them take a leap of faith—buying a building, remodeling it, and opening a childcare center. They did the buildout, design, and hands-on labor themselves. I saw a house transformed into a thriving business and watched them go from caring for one child to many. That experience stuck with me. I always knew I would be my own boss one day.

They led by example and sacrificed, persevered, and were full of integrity. They personified “hard work pays off,” and I learned most about work by watching them.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?

Believe it or not, it does get way better, so hang in there!

Is the public version of you the real you?

Yes. Now it’s all I know how to be.

There was a time when I couldn’t say that. I felt like I had to be someone others would like—so I conformed to their image of me, not my own. I did things to make others happy, even when I was angry at myself on the inside. I feared that if I didn’t agree with them or do what they did, they wouldn’t like me.

But then I learned who I was. I am the daughter of the Most High God. That truth empowered me to become who He made me to be.

So no—I no longer care if I’m not liked, if I lose a few friends, or even if some family members fall away. I care about my peace. I can walk away. I can say no. I no longer feel compelled to conform. I am unapologetically me. And I’m at peace with that.

If you laid down your name, role, and possessions—what would remain?

My faith, integrity, and character. I pray that’s what people remember most about me—not the titles, but that I was faithful to God and tried to be a person of good character.

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Content originally featured on VoyageHouston – credit to them for the interview.

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