Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Miller.
Jennifer, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I am 27 years old. I have been working with balloons for the past seven years. I have always been a crafty person, growing up my most common gifts were craft supplies on endless friendship bracelet kits. But, if you would’ve asked me if I ever saw myself working with balloons, my answer would’ve been no. When I was a senior in high school, I saw a random video of someone making a diaper cake. I thought it was the coolest thing so I decided to make one as a baby shower gift. I was so proud of my creation that I posted it on my Facebook page and to my surprise, I had several people order one. From there, I started offering other baby shower decorations but never balloons. One day I was asked if I could make a balloon arch for a first birthday. I knew nothing about balloons but I agreed! I thought it could be fun and since it was for a family member if it didn’t work out, it would be ok! We blew up balloons for two days with a hand pump. When it finally came time to assemble the balloon arch, it turned out great! At least I thought so then.
At that party, someone else asked me to make a balloon arch for an upcoming event. And with those pictures of the two balloon arches, I decided to start advertising on craigslist. My first paid balloon arch was made for someone who saw my ad, that lived in San Antonio and wanted to send it to someone as a gift! I was so excited for the opportunity! At the beginning, I mostly made balloon arches for friends and family and the occasional client that saw my work at a party. It began as a hobby for me but before I knew it I was getting booked every single weekend and it became my job. That is how JennArches was born! I have been very blessed with clients that keep me booked. However, none of this would be possible without my family. They make this dream possible for me with all their hard work and support, as well as some late nights!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Like with everything in life, you can’t get to the rainbow without the storms along the way. When I first started, I was young and had no experience. Although I had many inquiries, I encountered people that didn’t value my time or work. I once had a potential client give me the price that they were going to pay for the work they wanted me to do for them. I felt as if I was running an auction. It was hard feeling like I was missing out on clients or as if my work wasn’t good enough. But that only made room for clients who truly appreciated my work!
I struggled with not making a lot of profit when I was starting because I really wanted to get the experience and get my name out there so my prices were very low. But once I felt more comfortable with what I was doing, I knew it was time to value myself, my knowledge, and my business. It took a lot of patience but finally, the right kind of clients came around. Most recently, my Instagram was hacked, but six months later, I was able to finally recover it. Unfortunately, I lost about half of my followers so it’s been a challenge building it back up. I’ve learned that no matter how many years of experience you might have, unexpected things will always happen but challenges and obstacles are learning experiences!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am located in Houston, TX. I am close to Spring but I travel all over Houston and its surrounding areas. I specialize in balloon décor.
Anything from balloon arches, columns, walls, balloon garlands, centerpieces, etc.
If it has balloons, I can make it! I might be biased but I feel like balloons are the perfect touch to any event! Balloons can make any event festive and there is so many possibilities for designs that will give your event a complete wow factor! I also create personalized party favors. It is so memorable to have items created uniquely for your event!
I am proud of all my creations. I put in time and effort to each to ensure my clients receive the best. I truly appreciate being given the opportunity to be part of such special events, so each event is very meaningful to me. I research and take time to expand my knowledge to keep up with new trends, Here in Houston there is a great amount of talented balloon artists so I am especially proud of having my work chosen. I have been given great opportunities by companies/businesses like Chick-fil-A, Metro, Nissan, HISD, YES Prep, Champs Sports, Foot Locker, The Fort Bend Church, Dolls Fitness Studio, MD Anderson, The Boys and Girls Club, Chase, amongst others. From all of the balloon decorators they could have chosen, they chose me, and that fills my heart with pride.
What does success mean to you?
I think success has a million definitions. As a business owner, I think success to me means being able to keep a client. There is nothing better than having a client come back and continuously support your business. I am forever grateful for those clients that have followed my growth since day one and continue to support me and my business. Thank you for believing in me. In my personal life, success is defined by being able to create a happy and peaceful life. As well as being able to bring a positive contribution to this world. Your success is what you make it! And most importantly, your success has nothing to do with anyone else, the sun shines for everyone.
Pricing:
- Balloon garlands start at $25 per foot
- Balloon arches start at $125
- Balloon columns start at $50
- Delivery fees may apply.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennarches/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100008239743090
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@jennarches
Image Credits
Heartfelt Portraits DLM Visuals One for All Photography
