Today we’d like to introduce you to Bridget Hennessy.
Hi Bridget, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I knew I wanted to be a part of the entertainment industry, I just wasn’t sure where I fit. When Hennessy Events first began (I went full time in February 2020), we were focusing on being full-service party planners. As you all know, the world shut down a month later, and gathering for parties and events was no longer an option for a unforeseeable time. I decided that for the time being, I would have to get better at balloon garlands and offer “contact free” balloon drop offs. At first, the thought of relying on balloons alone for an income was the scariest leap of faith I’ve done.
Now I can look back on that moment as a life-changing decision that pushed me into the direction I was meant to take all along. At first I thought we wanted to sell balloon garlands. Now, we create balloon installations. I see our installations as temporary art that have the capability of changing the entire atmosphere of a space. They help people’s imagination run wild and make them feel something. My husband Michael went full time with our event company late summer and we launched our first balloon art exhibit last month (December). I never knew that this was my dream, that it was the missing piece I could feel but didn’t know what it was. I am so excited to see what this year has in store for us.
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?
Absolutely not. First off, our art includes a product that literally pops so that is an obstacle in itself! There have been several major struggles that in the long run taught us so much and helped us grow. Starting off was really hard. Weekends with zero bookings so we would be practicing at home and giving installations to neighbors so we could take photos and build our portfolio. Having to budget everything because getting the word out about a small business that doesn’t have a physical location is incredibly difficult. Dealing with people who don’t understand how hurtful words like “I am not spending that much for just balloons” are. Imagine someone saying that to an artist who just painted a painting. I learned I have to smile and move on.
Protecting our art, the hardest lesson thus far. We have had an event company take photos of our work and try to pass it off as their own. And other situations where we realized their intentions were not honest. I learned we have to have a legitimate contract and a privacy clause. Believing in yourself when others don’t see your vision. People may think your ideas are unrealistic or silly. Don’t listen. Whatever obstacle you face, whatever you are struggling with, it will make you stronger. Don’t avoid them, they will catch up to you eventually. You can push through it I promise! I always look for the lesson in my struggles. Sometimes these lessons are painful, but it helps mold you into who you are today. Everything I listed above were struggles, but they were blessings.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My husband Michael and I specialize in biodegradable balloon installations. They are more than the classic balloon garland, with each one being completely unique and one-of-a-kind. I am most proud of our balloon art exhibit. We came up with the idea months ago, and to see it come to life is indescribable. We strive to create an exhibit unlike any other, that makes our attendees feel like they are entering several different worlds where they can be themselves and forget their problems at the door. No one else is doing balloon art exhibits. We have our own style and love collaborating with other local artists. My favorite part of our job is meeting other artists and business owners. There’s a bond you create with other small business owners, it’s really cool.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
Anything involving my brothers. I was so lucky to have them growing up. I sometimes wish I could jump into photos and be there again. When you are little you never imagine that your siblings may not be with you as an adult. A special memory for me is whenever our power would go out due to thunderstorms. My mom and dad would light up candles around the house and we’d all have our own flashlight. We’d play board games until we couldn’t keep our eyes open anymore.
Pricing:
- Pick up garlands, $125
Contact Info:
- Email: hennessyevents@yahoo.com
- Website: www.hennessyevents.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/hennessyevents
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/hennessyevents
Image Credits
First Photo taken by Cindy Marshall
Wedding Photo taken by Rob Futrell
