Conversations with Vanessa Tanney

Today we’d like to introduce you to Vanessa Tanney.

Hi Vanessa, 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?
Growing up, I was actually afraid of balloons — the popping, the noise, all of it. I have always loved creating. When I was young, I would make jewelry boxes out of popsicle sticks!
When I had my first child, I knew I wanted to create something special for my kids on their birthdays that they would always remember. I decided to face that fear and signed up for a balloon class. I took the class, learned about balloon quality, and pushed myself outside of my comfort zone.
What began as a way to create a memorable birthday for my children turned into a true passion. I fell in love with the joy it brings to people celebrating life’s biggest moments. When clients see their balloon setup for their event, it gives me chills. I love seeing the excitement it brings to my clients.
Today, I create custom balloon decor for birthdays, baby showers, graduations, small businesses, photo shoots, and other special occasions.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
One of my obstacles has been building confidence in my work and learning not to be so self-critical. Over time, I’ve learned to trust my creativity, recognize my growth, and take pride in the joy my work brings to others.

One of the most meaningful challenges this journey helped me navigate was the transition into becoming a mother. Creating balloon designs gave me a sense of identity outside of motherhood and allowed me to have time for myself to create, reset, and pour into something I love. It became both a creative outlet and a form of self-care while still allowing me to create special moments for other families.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
VST Designs For You is built on creativity, intention, and heart. What started as a way to make my children’s birthdays special turned into a passion for helping others celebrate life’s biggest moments. I create custom balloon designs that bring joy, excitement, and lasting memories—while making every client feel comfortable, supported, and truly celebrated.

Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
For me, the future of this industry is really about continuing to grow in a way that allows me to serve families in meaningful ways. Celebrations will always matter. No matter what’s happening in the world, people want to gather, celebrate milestones, and create memories that last.

I feel incredibly honored to be part of some of the most special moments in people’s lives — helping a mom celebrate her baby’s first birthday, designing something fun and bold for a teenager turning 13, creating beautiful setups for quinceañeras and baptisms, and watching families come together to celebrate those once-in-a-lifetime milestones.

It’s also so special to support small businesses as they open their doors, celebrate grand openings, and reach new levels of success. Being trusted to visually represent those moments is something I never take lightly.
As the industry continues to grow, I hope to grow with it — expanding my creativity, refining my craft, and continuing to create designs that feel personal, intentional, and full of joy. More than anything, I want my work to help families and businesses celebrate their biggest moments and walk away with memories they’ll cherish forever.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vstdesignsforyou
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1WUjhZBvct/