Today we’d like to introduce you to Brooke Hooper.
Hi Brooke, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
The idea of Balloons by Brooke came to me back in April of this year when I threw my friend a baby shower. I ordered a balloon garland kit online, put it together and absolutely loved making it! Guests of the party joked around saying I should start a business making balloon garlands since most people either don’t know how to make them or don’t enjoy doing it themselves. After the baby shower, I did some research to see if there was anyone in the area already doing the same thing and it turned out there weren’t many options for balloon decor. The next week Balloons by Brooke was born and has grown faster than I ever expected!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The two biggest struggles when I started out were deciding on what the ‘right’ price point was and learning where to source the best quality balloons.
I had to find out what people would be willing and able to pay for a balloon garland for an event they’re hosting. I knew from experience that you are sometimes working with a tight budget when hosting a birthday party or bridal shower in your home. I think I have found that right price point where people are happy to pay for my garlands to enhance their event and I am still able to run a business.
Finding the balloons I needed was a struggle at first but luckily, I have found vendors both locally and online for what I need to make garlands of all colors and themes that customers request. From Frozen-themed birthday parties to fiesta-themed baby showers.
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 a full-time mom to my two-and-a-half years old daughter, Charlotte, and am expecting my second child in May 2021! Starting Balloons by Brooke has given me something that is just for me outside of being a mom and taking care of my family.
My business has also allowed me to grow closer to my own mother, as she helps me with all of my balloon installations!
I am most proud of how I have been able to tackle being a full-time mom alongside running a successful business. I have events booked throughout the holiday season and cannot wait to see how this business will continue to grow.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Social media is how I spread the word about my business, as well as connect to other people around the country who also make balloon garlands.
Contact Info:
- Email: balloonsbybrooke1@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/balloons_by_brooke/
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/balloonsbybrooke1/
