THIS IS ME

Deborah Burcham, Owner & Creative Memory Maker

In April 2024, I opened Doodles & Hues. Two years before that, in 2022, I sustained a serious head injury that left me with a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI). It changed everything. I had to make the very difficult decision to leave the career I had worked so hard to build. I was no longer able to manage staff, oversee a building, and put out fires all at once — the very kind of fast-paced multitasking I had always taken pride in. After stepping away, I knew I needed a new purpose. But this time, it had to be at a slower pace. I needed something that allowed me to focus on one thing at a time, while still bringing meaning, connection, and joy into my life. That’s when I discovered mobile paint parties. And in true Deborah fashion, I decided to do it my own way. I chose to focus on retirement villages — because these are my people. I wanted to bring creativity, laughter, and joy to older adults through art. Now, two years later, I’m teaching around 15 paint parties a month. I’ve built wonderful relationships with properties, activity directors, and residents. From canvas paintings to whimsical wood projects, this little business continues to fill my cup more and more. Doodles & Hues was born from a life change I never would have chosen — but it has grown into something beautiful. And for that, I am so very grateful.