Today we’d like to introduce you to Alicia Cash.
Hi Alicia, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
It’s crazy how all of this started. I did my best friend’s bachelorette decorations as a surprise, then did my other best friend’s baby shower because balloon arches were the new popular thing to have for any party. They weren’t great arches but weren’t that horrible, either. I was at a friend’s house for another party/gathering, and we were all catching up. Someone was like you should make this a business. I quickly stated “I’m not even that good. It’s just for fun”. I distinctly remember a friend’s husband saying, “maybe you just need a little confidence.” Now I’ve heard that phrase most of my life. Confidence is an area that I struggle with. However, I don’t know if it was the way he said it or the fact it was my moment for a message to stick, but it did. So I got super serious.
I filed for my LLC. I started watching YouTube and TikTok videos practicing. I’ve gone to two classes. (Yes, there are balloon classes.) There’s a whole balloon world out there. I started connecting with other artists from all over the US on social media. I sought any information or help anyone would give. It’s a constant learning process with balloons and owning a business. My business ultimately took off. My friends hired me. My church hired me. A big corporation hired me. Friends of friends hired me. I still can’t believe it, honestly. I fell into a passion. Something that truly makes me so happy. It’s been such a positive outlet in my life. Creating arches has allowed me to conquer many things but also helps me cope with anxiety, self-doubt, and that C word – confidence. I have dreams now. This is a god-ordained door that was opened for me, and I believe I will become a balloon mogul down the road—being able to teach and travel. Show my work all around the world. I’ve lost count of how many arches I created this year. Only one year in business. I can’t wait to see what I do next.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I wish I could say it’s been smooth, but it has not been. I think anyone that owns a business can relate. When you decide to own a business, you are taking a chance on that dream and taking a risk on many variables that come into play. Not only that but there are also long nights. I work a full-time job on top of owning my business. That’s one struggle. Juggling a work/life balance. I don’t get much free time. Once I get off from work. I become a businesswoman. Answering inquiries. Posting content. I am learning and watching new things. It’s never-ending.
Thanks for sharing that. So, you could tell us a bit more about your work.
Let me introduce myself, then. I’m Alicia, a Balloon Artist. A Balloon Artist is not someone that just plays around and makes balloon animals all day. A Balloon artist is whatever definition you want it to be. It’s what it means to that specific person. It’s an expression of art. It’s a representation of myself, which could be taken as being complex but easy on the eyes, haha (I’m a jokester most of the time).
I still have a lot to learn, but I specialize in organic balloon garlands. This doesn’t have any specific shape or style. It’s whatever comes to mind and how I connect with the balloons. Organic garlands have their unique flow. I also feed off the vibe of the venue. If I can walk into a place and feel at peace, I believe that’s the moment where some of my best work is displayed.
I’m most proud of myself. I’m going to repeat it; I’m most proud of myself. I’m living out a dream; I have a business. I don’t come from a lot, but I’m making it. I’m succeeding. I pray everyone can experience this feeling of being able to dream and do something they genuinely love! What sets me apart from others is how I put sweat, blood and tears into every install. My work shows that. I work hard; I love what I do. I love being able to be a small part of someone’s event. I love making people happy with my work and seeing their reactions when I’m done. It’s a process from start to finish. That’s the ingredient that keeps me going. I hope with every installation my clients are touched with my love, my laughter and my work.
Any big plans?
Well as I stated in a previous question, a dream of mind would be able to travel and teach. I would love to make this my full-time job, but that door hasn’t opened yet. I will know when it’s time to make that jump. As of right now, I’m just going to continue to learn and grow. There’s so much to be still taught. I have a lot of ideas that I want to put into motion. I don’t want to spill the beans yet. So stay tuned.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amc_designss/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amc.designss?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Image Credits
Rae Dawn Photography -Rebecca McElroy
