Brush + Banter Podcast Ep. 8 with Caroline & Tianna of Off the Walls Murals

Besties in Business: Building a Creative Company with Friends

Running a small business is hard. But running one with a best friend takes an entirely different level of trust, communication, and intentionality.

In this episode of Brush + Banter, hosts Annie and Lauren sit down with Caroline and Tianna, co-founders of Off the Walls Murals, to talk about what it really looks like to build a creative company together. And how to do it without sacrificing the friendship that started it all.

From navigating money and pricing to dividing workload, handling conflict, and planning for long-term growth, this conversation pulls back the curtain on the systems and honesty required to keep both the business and the relationship healthy.

Friendship Is the Foundation, but Systems Keep It Moving

Caroline and Tianna didn’t build Off the Walls Murals by winging it. As their mural work grew into a full-time business, they realized that trust alone wasn’t enough. Clear systems and expectations had to be in place in order for things to really take off.

They shared how defining roles, documenting processes, and communicating openly prevents resentment from building behind the scenes. When everyone knows who owns what, decisions feel less personal and more productive.

Their takeaway was that strong partnerships don’t avoid hard conversations. In fact, they make space for them early.

Talking About Money Without Letting It Get Messy

One of the most honest parts of the episode centers on money. Pricing murals, managing income, and making big financial decisions together can quickly strain even the closest friendships if left unspoken.

Caroline and Tianna emphasized transparency, like talking numbers openly, aligning on value, and revisiting decisions as the business evolves. When finances are clear, trust stays intact, and confidence grows.

Money conversations don’t have to be uncomfortable. But they do have to be intentional.

Growing Together Without Growing Apart

As Off the Walls Murals expanded, so did the need for alignment around vision and values. Growth introduces new pressures, new responsibilities, and new opportunities, this duo realized that it also requires flexibility.

Caroline and Tianna spoke about checking in often, adjusting expectations, and recognizing that each partner may evolve differently over time. Staying aligned meant staying honest every step of the way.

Art with Purpose: Giving Back Through Creativity

At the heart of Off the Walls Murals is a commitment to community. They didn’t want their work to just focus on bold designs and large-scale transformations. They wanted to make a real impact.

From partnerships with organizations like Make-A-Wish Foundation, United Way, and Children in Crisis, Caroline and Tianna have built giving back into the heart of their business. For them, success means creating work that serves others and leaves spaces better than they found them.

Their dream project? A full redesign of a children’s shelter, combining murals and interior design to create spaces that feel safe, joyful, and hopeful.

Tools That Support Teamwork on the Wall

When you’re working side-by-side on large-scale projects, consistency and control matter. Caroline and Tianna shared their go-to Zibra brush for mural work:

• ½” Square Brush – their favorite for clean lines, edges, and precision. (Available in the Not-So-Square Trio Kit)

Keep Listening

To hear the full conversation, including how Caroline and Tianna navigate conflict, protect their friendship, and build a business rooted in shared values, listen to “Besties in Business: Building a Creative Company with Friends” wherever you stream podcasts.

Catch up on all Brush & Banter episodes here.

Follow Off the Walls Murals

Off the Walls Murals is a community-driven mural company known for thoughtful design, large-scale transformations, and heart-led work that gives back.

Connect with Caroline & Tianna:

• Instagram
• TikTok
• Facebook
• Website