Today we’d like to introduce you to Keela Jones.
Hi Keela, 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?
Every business has its own unique story, and mine is no exception. What began as a creative venture in yard carding gradually blossomed into a thriving balloon decor business. This is the journey of how passion, creativity, and a willingness to embrace the new opportunities that were created through ‘The Yard Card Pro’ and led to the formation of ‘Creations by TYCP’.
My entrepreneurial journey began with yard carding – a trend that transformed ordinary lawns into festive displays of celebration and recognition. I was drawn to the idea of bringing joy for special moments, whether it was for birthdays, graduations, anniversaries, or even just to brighten someone’s day. Armed with colorful signs and a determination to spread joy and cheer, I started offering my services to friends, family, and eventually the broader community. Word quickly spread, and before I knew it, my calendar was filling up with requests for yard card setups throughout Gwinnett, Barrow, Hall, Jackson and North Fulton counties.
As my yard card business blossomed, a profound realization hit me: I wasn’t just in the yard card business, I was in the celebration industry! Every celebration starts with a spark, and for ‘Creations by TYCP’, that spark ignited in a very personal way. It was decorating for my aunt’s 95th birthday celebration when I first discovered that extra pizazz that balloons could truly bring. I was seeking that “wow” factor, something that would transform a space and leave a lasting impression.
Seeing the incredible response to my balloon display, I decided to invest in learning more about balloon decor. I watched tutorials, attended workshops, and practiced relentlessly. Soon, I was creating elaborate balloon arches, columns, and garlands for parties, corporate events, and community gatherings. My balloon decor service began taking on a life of its own, distinct from my yard carding roots, yet deeply connected to my original goal: making moments unforgettable and special for my clients.
Today, ‘Creations by TYCP’ stands as a testament to growth and creativity. I have the privilege of being a part of momentous celebrations while helping clients bring their visions to life with vibrant, custom balloon installations. Looking back, I am grateful for my yard carding beginnings – this laid the foundation for everything I do now. This journey has been filled with learning and the fulfillment that comes from bringing people joy and excitement.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The transition from yard carding to balloon decor wasn’t very smooth. I faced many challenges like learning new techniques, sourcing quality materials, and balancing the demands of both businesses. There were moments of doubt and plenty of late nights spent perfecting my craft. However, each challenge taught me valuable lessons about resilience, adaptability, and the importance of customer service.
As you know, we’re big fans of Creations by TYCP | Balloon Design. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Creations by TYCP is your premiere destination for exceptional balloon decoration and event styling. We believe every celebration deserves a burst of color, artistry, and joy. With our passion for design and commitment to excellence, we turn your visions into spectacular realities…one detail at a time!
We’re not only creating balloon decorations; we’re crafting unforgettable atmospheres and bringing celebratory visions to life. We believe every milestone, big or small, deserves to be celebrated with joy and exquisite designs.
We transform spaces through our balloon artistry. From family gatherings to corporate events, we transform spaces through our balloon design, creativity, and expertly install decor that perfectly reflects our clients’ themes and personalities.
We’ve become known for our elegant balloon columns and towers, organic balloon garlands, balloon arches, and balloon bouquets and stacks and incorporating sequin backdrops, shimmer walls, and custom signage to create truly cohesive and breathtaking displays.
What truly sets Creations by TYCP apart is our unwavering commitment to a seamless, personalized client experience. From our initial consultation where we dive deep into your vision, to our transparent quoting, design process, and professional, stress-free installation and removal – we handle every detail. We prioritize communication and reliability, ensuring our clients can relax and truly enjoy their event, knowing their decor is in expert hands. We don’t just deliver exceptional balloon decor; we deliver peace of mind and pure joy. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing a client’s eyes light up when they see their transformed space, or receiving heartfelt feedback about how our decor made their event truly special. That impact, that creation of lasting, beautiful memories, is what drives us.
Creations by TYCP is your partner in celebration. We’re here to take your ideas – whether fully formed or just a spark – and elevate them into a stunning reality. We treat every event as if it were our own, with an artistic eye and dedication to details. Our offerings are completely customized to your needs. When you choose us, you’re not just purchasing balloons; you’re investing in an experience that will make your celebration unforgettable.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Starting a balloon decoration business is an incredibly exciting, creative, and rewarding venture, but like any business, it comes with its unique learning curve. Looking back, following are the top pieces of advice I’d offer to anyone just getting started, and a few things I truly wish I knew from day one:
1. Invest in Education.
Formal Training is Invaluable: While you can certainly learn a lot from YouTube, investing in workshops, online courses, and even a professional certification will accelerate your skills, teach you industry best practices, and introduce you to techniques you might never discover on your own. It’s a game-changer for quality and efficiency.
Also, don’t just focus on the artistry. Learn about pricing, marketing, client communication, contracts, and basic bookkeeping. Being a great artist isn’t enough; you need to be a savvy business owner too.
2. Practice, Practice, Practice – And Document Everything.
Before you launch, practice extensively. Experiment with different inflation levels, knotting techniques, sizing, and color combinations. Balloons have a ‘memory,’ and you need to understand how they behave.
Every practice piece, every family birthday, every favor for a friend – treat it as an opportunity to create portfolio-worthy content. Take high-quality photos and videos! This is how you’ll attract your first paying clients. I wish I had taken more “before and after” photos of my early setups.
3. Understand Your Niche & Pricing Strategy.
Don’t try to be everything to everyone. Are you high-end, budget-friendly, whimsical, corporate, grand, intimate? Knowing your ideal client helps focus your marketing and offerings.
Also, appropriately price your work! This was a tough lesson. Don’t underprice yourself just to get clients. Factor in all your costs: materials, helium, labor (design, inflation, setup, travel, teardown), fuel, insurance, education, and your time. Your expertise and the joy you create are valuable. Research industry averages and stick to your worth.
4. Build a strong network.
Connect with fellow balloon decorators. Join online and local groups, and attend industry events. You’ll find mentors, learn tips, and even get referrals. It’s not a competition; it’s a community. and
Also, work with reliable suppliers. Build relationships with trusted balloon and supply vendors. Quality materials make a huge difference in the longevity and appearance of your work.
5. Expect Challenges and embrace Learning.
You will have balloons pop, columns fall, and unexpected weather challenges. Learn to troubleshoot quickly and calmly. Always have extra supplies and a contingency plan.
Customer service is key! Beyond the balloons, your professionalism, responsiveness, and ability to make clients feel heard will set you apart. Word-of-mouth is priceless.
Growth takes time. Be patient with yourself, celebrate small victories, and learn from every experience.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://creationsbytycp.wixsite.com/balloons
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creationsbytycp
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/creationsbytycp5
