Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda Ball.
Hi Amanda, 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?
Over a decade ago, I was a mid-twenties mama with 3 small kids. Our family needed extra income so I decided I should get a job.
After doing the math, I realized I’d be working for 40 hours a week plus commuting just to make a few hundred dollars extra a month after daycare and other expenses.
That just wasn’t worth it to be away from my children for that many hours each day. I decided to start a business. Cake pops were just getting started and I’ve always loved art and making things so I started to learn about them. I began selling orders and setting up locations to get the word out and make a little money. One day, I was selling my cake pops near some artists doing balloons and face painting.
Their line was so long and they were busy the whole night. Later, I went to compliment them on how amazing they were, and (now my good friend) Lisa, a balloon artist, told me if I can do those (cake pops) I could do this. I said, “Oh no! I’m afraid of balloons!” She replied, “So what?” My mind was blown. Like a light went off inside me, I decided to get into balloons. It’s been just about 11 years since that fateful evening.
Never would I have guessed, that I’d be doing this for so many years, nor how much I would love the endless possibilities, the people, and the amazing feeling I get every time I get the compliments and appreciation I receive so often from all the wonderful people here in and around San Antonio.
I can’t believe how blessed I am or how my business has grown. I now have 4 children and because of these blessings, I am able to spend most of my time with them.
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?
Since I started knowing nothing and having small kiddos, I spent a lot of time practicing in spare minutes here and there. Watching videos and looking at pictures late at night while putting the kids to bed.
Learning the little techniques that make one faster and better. I did seem to have a knack for it but looking back I have improved so much as far as speed, technique, and the complexity of my work.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I never imagined I’d be an artist for a living. After three years of doing balloon art and face painting, a child asked me at a party if I was an artist and after a second of processing the question I replied, “Wow! Yes, I am!”
I couldn’t believe it! People usually call me the balloon lady but I often get recognized in random places and at events as the lady that did balloons or face painting at a party they had or had been to. I’m most proud of my work ethic because I believe that is what has created my success.
I strive to make everyone as happy as I can and despite not always being the best artist, people have hired and recommended me more and more over the years. I love people and making people happy with my art and I think that shows.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Just my thanks for their love and support over the years. Without them, I couldn’t have built this business. I’m proud of it and I make my kids and husband proud too. It’s a wonderful feeling.
Pricing:
- $120/hr for balloons or face painting.
- $220/2 hrs for balloons and face painting.
- $300/3 hrs for balloons and face painting.
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.alamoballooncompany.com
- Instagram: Www.instagram.com/alamoballooncompany
- Facebook: Www.Facebook.com/alamoballooncompany
