NEW HAVEN
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The Giggling Pig
Walk-in Hours:
TUES - THU: 10 AM - 1 PM and 4:30 - 6 PM
SAT & SUN: 9:30 - 11:00 AM
About Us
Melissa Mongillo, Co-Owner
The Giggling Pig — New Haven
After almost two decades in leadership roles in the staffing and recruitment world, I found myself wanting something more meaningful—a way to connect with my community while finding joy in what I do. As a mom and entrepreneur, I was driven to create something that felt fulfilling, fun, and impactful.
That search led me to partner with Hannah Perry, the visionary behind The Giggling Pig. What drew me in wasn’t just the creativity and fun it brings to children and adults alike, but the way it fosters connection and a sense of belonging. Whether it’s a child’s first painting or an adult’s evening of unwinding at a Paint & Sip, The Giggling Pig creates moments that people cherish.
Together, Hannah and I opened The Giggling Pig’s seventh location in the Arts District at the Shops at Yale. Our studio is more than just a place to get creative—it’s a space where we welcome everyone to express themselves, relax, and connect. We offer everything from children’s art classes to adult events and corporate team-building, all with the aim of bringing people together in a positive, encouraging environment.
As a co-owner, I’m excited to keep building on this vision, to continue growing a place where creativity blooms and where people of all ages feel like they belong.
Hannah Perry, Founder and Co-Owner
The Giggling Pig — New Haven
In 2021, a significant milestone was achieved when I sold my first franchise—a joyful beginning that quickly expanded to six more franchises. Following this accomplishment, I decided to take a two-year break to focus entirely on the strategic and operational aspects of our business. Despite the valuable insights this period provided, I deeply missed the daily interactions with children and families, the core of our joy and purpose.
During a challenging time in 2023, when I was hospitalized due to a COVID-related heart condition, I had a profound realization about what truly matters to me. This experience underscored the importance of being deeply involved in what I love most—fostering creativity and growing our community. It rekindled my passion and solidified my decision to not only return to in-studio work but also to seek new opportunities for expanding our reach.
An exciting opportunity soon presented itself in New Haven, and I knew exactly who I wanted by my side. I invited Melissa, a remarkably talented individual whose unique and crucial skills complement the vision and direction of our company. Her partnership was a decision driven by both admiration and strategic insight. Today, I am thrilled to be working alongside a woman I admire profoundly and am fortunate enough to call a friend.
Here we are, more motivated than ever, ready to nurture creativity and bring joy to more families. Thank you for taking the time to get to know a bit about us. We are excited about the future and hope you'll be a part of our continuing story.
Meet Our Team
Melissa Mongillo
Co-Owner
Piglets Teacher
Hello! I'm Melissa, Co-Owner of The Giggling Pig Art Studios in New Haven. My journey here began with a passion for impactful, joy-filled community engagement. As a mom and entrepreneur with a degree in Human Development and Family Relations from the University of Connecticut, I left a nearly two-decade career in the corporate world to create a space where both kids and adults can express themselves and feel connected. At The Giggling Pig, we're dedicated to fostering imagination, joy, and community through art. I'm thrilled to be part of this wonderful community and to contribute to your family’s creative experiences. Let's create art, make memories, and spread joy together!
Hannah Perry
Founder & Co-Owner
Art Teacher
Hello! I'm Hannah, the founder and creator of The Giggling Pig Art Studios. My life’s passion is working with children, providing them with joyful and memorable experiences. As a children's author and illustrator, I am dedicated to helping young minds explore the infinite possibilities of their imagination. At The Giggling Pig, we believe in nurturing the creator in every child, empowering them to shape their world through art and creativity. It's a joy to share this enchanting journey, inspiring your children to dream, create, and explore—a journey that began with a dream of my own.
NEW HAVEN Class Packs
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