About the Owners

Lamarr and Monique Sanders are the dynamic duo behind Our Hour-Mobile Paint Party, a business that has grown significantly since its inception in 2015. Their venture combines Lamarr’s artistic expertise with Monique’s background in therapy and a family-oriented approach. Married for 19 years and proud parents of 4 beautiful children, the couple brings both personal and professional experience to their family-focused business.

Lamarr Sanders

Lamarr is the artistic force behind Our Hour, bringing a wealth of experience and education to the table:

  • 28+ years of professional art experience
  • Fine Arts Bachelor’s degree from the College for Creative Studies
  • Fine Arts artist for collectors
  • K-8 art teacher
  • Experienced afterschool art instructor
  • Homeschooling art instructor
  • Lead instructor for Our Hour-Paint.Play.Create
  • Book illustrator

Lamarr’s journey with Our Hour began while working as a school janitor. In 2018, he took a leap of faith and left his job to focus on Our Hour full-time. His diverse artistic skills and teaching experience are at the core of the company’s offerings, from social art painting experiences to gallery artwork for collectors.

Monique Sanders

Monique’s journey began as a teen abstinence mentor in metro Detroit schools, laying the foundation for her career in youth development and counseling. She brings extensive experience in child development and therapy to Our Hour:

  • 22+ years of professional experience working with youth
  • Master’s in Counseling Psychology from Moody Theological Seminary
  • Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Grand Valley State University
  • Experience as a facilitator, case manager, and counseling therapist for children
  • Work in the Detroit juvenile justice system, including case management and counseling with inner-city youth
  • Current role as a therapist for children and adults in metro Detroit
  • Co-Sunday school teacher with Lamarr at their local church
  • Co-owner of Our Hour-Mobile Paint Party

Together, Lamarr and Monique have created a unique business model that blends art, therapy, and family-oriented experiences. After completing a 15-week business course, they launched Our Hour, initially serving clients across metro Detroit. The couple fully committed to growing their business together in 2018 when Monique unexpectedly lost her job.

Our Hour has adapted and evolved, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, when they pivoted to shipping painting kits and hosting virtual events. Post-pandemic, they have shifted their primary focus to after-school and summer enrichment art programs while continuing to offer painting events.

Looking ahead, Lamarr and Monique are preparing for Phase 2 of their business venture—launching a family fun center centered around arts and creativity. Their combined skills in art, therapy, and child development, coupled with their experience as parents of four children, make them well-equipped to continue growing Our Hour and positively impacting their community through creative experiences.