“CEF stood out by offering mentorship, guidance on my proposal and financials, and expert support through the loan process. Their personalized approach made them the best fit for my business”
– BreAnna Borah, Owner

Q&A with Owner, BreAnna Borah

Give a high level overview of your business. What products or services you offer, where you're located, etc.
Picturesque Impressions is a creative, mission-driven business that operates with a dual focus. On one side, we create character-licensed children’s books and products that promote emotional intelligence, communication skills, and kindness. We believe those core values are often underrepresented in traditional education. Our flagship character, Ratticus Finch, helps children navigate real-world emotions in relatable and engaging ways.

On the other side, we offer Impressionism-inspired artwork through commissioned paintings, customizable prints, and art-based products. These pieces are designed to bring personal stories to life through expressive, timeless brushwork.

Founded in 2022, Picturesque Impressions is currently based in Colorado and operates from a dedicated home studio space. All of our products are offered online, allowing us to reach families, educators, and art lovers across the country. As we grow each year, our mission remains clear: to create meaningful, culturally enriching products that support emotional development and artistic appreciation.

How did the idea for your business come about?
Before starting my business, I was a preschool teacher passionate about emotional intelligence, kindness, and creativity. I launched Picturesque Impressions to share meaningful stories for kids and offer expressive, story-rich art inspired by Impressionism.

Describe your typical customer and what you love about your customers.
I serve families who value emotional growth and art lovers seeking meaningful, one-of-a-kind pieces. Whether it’s helping kids build empathy or creating custom art, I’m inspired by how intentional and passionate my customers are. They remind me why I started this journey.

How did your journey lead you to Colorado Enterprise Fund?
While searching for business funding, I found a helpful loan checklist on the Colorado Office of Economic Development site. The site led me to Colorado Enterprise Fund, and I’m so grateful it did.

What was your experience like when trying to get funding for your business? Ie, how long had you been looking? Did you experience difficulties, etc.?
Finding funding was challenging as a new business. I searched for about six months and applied to a few nonprofits. Colorado Enterprise Fund stood out by offering the support and resources I needed to successfully move forward.

What ultimately made you decide to go with CEF as your lender?
CEF stood out by offering mentorship, guidance on my proposal and financials, and expert support through the loan process. Their personalized approach made them the best fit for my business.

What were you able to do with the funding you received from CEF?
The funding helped me set up a dedicated art and fulfillment workspace. Also, the funding allowed me to begin licensing my children’s book character, a big step in expanding my brand.

What's on the horizon for you and your small business?
My 1–5 year plan includes building a creative workspace, licensing characters, expanding into schools, and growing my art and book sales. Long term, I aim to become a globally recognized brand with products in major retail stores and a children’s TV partnership.

Have you worked with our Business Navigation (coaching) team? What difference has working with them made for your business?
Yes.

What recent success(es) have you experienced in your business?
Verde Valley First Books in Arizona purchased 550 copies of The Bad Raccoon: Show and Tell to teach kindness in their program. It was an exciting milestone and a great example of how our stories support social-emotional learning.

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?
For any small business owner searching for guidance and support, look no further than CEF. They go above and beyond in providing valuable, no-cost resources and information to help business owners succeed. Their dedication truly makes a difference.