Today we’d like to introduce you to Gao Thuy.
Hi Gao, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I have been a stay-at-home mom for almost a decade to now 3 beautiful babies and I love it! There is nothing more amazing than seeing all the milestones your child reaches.
The little fingers and toes grow bigger and longer every day. But, it’s not always sunshine and rainbows and can 100% get pretty stressful. I was always able to relieve my stress by decorating the home or any small event/party being held. Anyone who knows me always considers me as, that “extra” person, no offense taken, gladly am. I just love going all out decorating and setting the vibe for any event. Many times, has left me pondering about the event business. Owning a business has been an interest of mine for many years, which I have tried and failed, but that’s totally okay! I know my passion lies where I’m able to be creative and decorate, but wasn’t sure how, what, where, or all the “W.H.” questions.
In 2016, I started by renting out some wedding centerpieces. It was a long day, but the bride and groom’s expressions of appreciation, joy, and excitement made it all worth it. This made me once again, reconsider the event industry. Fast forward to 2021 when I made my first-ever, balloon garland backdrop. Being able to tap into my creativity once again and seeing it all brought to life was just so exciting, yet therapeutic. Can you believe it? Balloons, I mean, who doesn’t like balloons? I’ve found my niche!
Since then, I have learned and made many more balloon garlands. It wasn’t until the beginning of 2023, that I started taking the craft more seriously by investing time and money into the balloon industry, soon launching Memorable Balloons towards the end of the summer. It was a big move, but it just made sense. Everything about the balloon industry, I enjoy. Most importantly, it allows me to be creative.
No two events are ever the same, because it’s always customized to the client’s choice of theme and vision. I’m continuously challenged and inspired. In my humble opinion, balloons will never get old. There are always new trends to follow and learn. I like to say, I’m in the happy industry, and nothing is more special than that. Which is why I believe that understanding the importance of the client’s milestone and celebration is what makes us, Memorable Balloons.
Of course, last but not least. I just want to say, I would not have gone through any of these journeys without my husband. so many times, I’ve had doubts, but he has always believed in me and push me to pursue my dreams. He’s my biggest fan and I love him.
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?
I think it has been pretty good so far, but not a smooth road. Like everything else, there are challenges. I would say the biggest struggle so far for us would be understanding to “charge your worth”. Don’t let anybody take advantage of us because we know what we can bring to the table. I say that because we as artists know the long nights and days. All the process and all the hard work we put into perfecting someone else’s big day does get stressful. Although we love what we do, I think feeling appreciated is what makes it all worth the while.
I know starting a business is always exciting and you want to book everybody and make everyone happy while doing what you love. But, at the end of the day, we need to also remember that this is a business. We do get ghosted often once we send out a quote and sometimes that can be discouraging, but we just need to remind ourselves daily that “it’s okay” and hard work will pay off. But I honestly, do believe some people genuinely just don’t know how much it takes to create the event they are asking for. This is the part of our job where we need to be honest and educate the client as well. Challenges lead to lessons being learned.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
We specialize in creating organic balloon garlands; creating backdrops, arches, balloon columns, centerpieces, etc. We only use high-quality, high-end latex balloons along with being able to offer 100% biodegradable balloons. If you need balloon decorations for any events big or small, we are here! Each event that we create are all customize specifically to that client’s chosen theme. Once we are able to discuss with the client about their event, theme, and vision, we go to the drawing board. A mock-up will always be presented and approved before any install.
We are most proud of our attention to detail. We believe the little details are what make all the difference and what makes our brand. We are also proud that we get to do what we love while bringing joy and helping our clients make memories, whether that’s a kid’s birthday party or a corporate event. The core of our brand is capturing memories, hence why we named ourselves, Memorable Balloons. Every event we do is created with love and passion.
What would you say has been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
There are constantly new lessons to be learned in this industry, but I think at this moment, just being true to myself and my art.
Trusting in my OWN journey and stop comparing myself to others. Completely understanding that everyone is doing different things and has different goals.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/memorableballoons_mn
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MemorableBalloons
