When a Columbia homeowner needed their entire first floor repainted while still living in the space with two dogs and a toddler, Ai Painting Plus coordinator Jaclyn worked out a room-by-room schedule that kept the family functional throughout the project. The crew moved furniture daily, laid protective coverings, and left each room "cleaner than when they started" according to the homeowner. This attention to logistics alongside craftsmanship defines how Austin and Lacie Ilsley run their painting operation.
Austin founded Ai Painting Plus in 2013, and Lacie became President in 2021. The company now employs 15 W2 painters working from their shop on South Sinclair Road in Columbia. The fully insured team holds EPA Lead-Safe Certification and WBENC Certification as a women-owned business. Their structured apprenticeship program develops painters through defined skill levels from Apprentice through Lead Painter.
The company handles interior and exterior residential painting, commercial projects, cabinet refinishing, deck staining, and specialty work including popcorn ceiling removal, wallpaper removal, and drywall repair. They serve Columbia, Jefferson City, Ashland, Boonville, Hallsville, Rocheport, Moberly, and surrounding Mid-Missouri communities.
Reviews consistently highlight individual crew members for their craftsmanship and personality. One customer called Zach Frakes "a true artist" with his brush work, while another praised Charles for his "incredible attention to detail on our trim." James receives recognition for managing complex multi-room projects. The company's apprenticeship program develops these skills systematically, and customers notice the difference between trained craftsmen and typical painters.
-Review Snippet Sources: Google Reviews
Jaclyn handles project coordination and color consultation, appearing in more reviews than any other team member. Customers describe her as "incredibly helpful" and "responsive to every question." One homeowner credited her with "making the color selection process so much easier" for their whole-house interior project. She sends scheduling confirmations, coordinates crew assignments, and maintains communication between office and job sites.
-Review Snippet Sources: Google Reviews, Facebook
Property protection receives specific attention in reviews. One homeowner described "everything was covered and protected" while another appreciated that "they treated our home like it was their own." The crew uses drop cloths, plastic sheeting, and tape to shield furniture, floors, and fixtures. Multiple customers mention that despite extensive work, nothing was damaged or stained during their projects.
-Review Snippet Sources: Google Reviews
Cleanup practices distinguish this company in reviews. One customer stated the crew left their home "cleaner than when they started" while another mentioned "meticulous cleanup every single day." Painters remove all equipment, wash brushes off-site, and vacuum or sweep work areas before leaving. The final walkthrough addresses any remaining touch-ups before the project closes.
-Review Snippet Sources: Google Reviews, Facebook
The company employs 15 W2 painters who work exclusively for Ai Painting Plus. Reviews mention seeing the same crew members across different projects, with customers noting "consistent quality from the same reliable team." The structured apprenticeship program trains painters internally, progressing from Apprentice 1 through Lead Painter. This employment model creates accountability that customers recognize in their feedback about crew consistency.
-Review Snippet Sources: Google Reviews
Several reviewers mention hiring Ai Painting Plus for multiple projects over the years. One returning customer stated "we've used them three times now and they never disappoint" while another noted "already booked them for our exterior next spring." The pattern of repeat business appears across reviews, with customers citing consistent crew quality and reliable communication as reasons they return.
-Review Snippet Sources: Google Reviews, Facebook
Precision on trim, baseboards, and edges receives frequent praise. One customer noted "perfect lines throughout the entire house" while another described "flawless work on all the trim and doors." Painters cut in by hand without tape in most scenarios, a skill developed through the company's training program. This attention to finishing details distinguishes their work from less experienced painters.
-Review Snippet Sources: Google Reviews
Missouri does not require a state-level contractor license for painting contractors. Ai Painting Plus holds a Columbia City Business License (License No. BL023970, Industry Classification: Painting and Wall Covering Contractors) and is registered with the Missouri Secretary of State as AI Painting Plus, LLC (Charter No. LC1281844, formed January 9, 2013, Status: Active). The company maintains BBB accreditation with an A+ rating since November 2014.
-Verification Sources: City of Columbia Business License Search, Missouri Secretary of State Business Entity Search, BBB Profile