Today we’d like to introduce you to Jasmine Franklin.
Hi Jasmine, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
When I opened Balloon Chic, I initially had in mind I was going to personalize small 12″ balloons with cute sayings and writings , never did I imagine I would be designing portraits on 3ft balloons and installing balloon garlands! But, to be honest working on smaller balloons was the stepping stone and ground foundation to introducing me to a whole new level of balloon artistry. I learned quickly that when running a business you cannot provide products that only you’re comfortable white or products that are appealing to you. I had to research the balloon market and analyze what my future clients were attracted to and quite frankly what’s selling!
I wasn’t afraid to take a survey and observe what other artist are producing. I was intrigued by the competition and told myself its time to step my game up. Now, mind you, I’d had not taken any balloon courses and was a self taught artist. So I began watching videos, purchasing tons of balloons and practicing and practicing, until I felt I was ready to showcase my new found skills to the world.
I’m proud to say I’m still learning as I go but never had I imagined that I had it within me to create a portrait on a balloon let alone install balloon walls or garlands. My portraits and images are becoming more realistic and these fingers are tying balloons faster than I’d ever imagined.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
There have definitely been several struggles along this road, conquering my creative mind and also being my own worst critic. I’ve wrestled with the idea if Balloon Chic was the right decision for me, as social media played a HUGE role in the outcome. There were times when I thought I created a top tier masterpiece and would only receive 2 likes on social media, or there were months that went by where I received no bookings.
Being that social media in this day and age holds majority of your clientele, I was feeling that wasn’t producing or standing out as I should. But, there was always that small voice reminding me that big endings start with small beginnings.
I realized I had to change my approach, taking better quality pictures of my work and also learning new techniques.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Balloon Chic is known for my awesome portrait balloons! Yes, we do portraits! Whether you’re laughing or jumping in the air, I can bring it all to life on your balloon. I like to give my clients the option to create something out of the ordinary something they typically wouldn’t find at a party store. My number 1 mission is to provide high quality balloons for every occasion for my clients to share with those they love the most.
I am honorably proud that I am able to recreate a moment in time for my clients and transform their birthday or event and give it that extra pop!
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The most important lesson that I have learned along my journey is that its okay to be different! You cant shine while being someone else or recreating another artist’s work. What makes you stand apart is you being you! Having your own unique style and creativity. And most importantly never give up or compare your work to another artist. There’s room for everyone. Remember God gave the vision and dream to you. He’s equipped your hands to design in your own unique way. Despite if you get 1 or 0 likes there’s always someone watching. You never know who you’re going to inspire.
Pricing:
- Standard Jumbo balloon $55
- Portrait/Ultrasound Balloon $75
- Balloon Garland $20 per ft
- Balloon Wall starting at $300
Contact Info:
- Email: info@theballoonchic.com
- Website: www.theballoonchic.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theballoonchic/
- Other: https://linktr.ee/TheBalloonChic
