Meet Amy Holmes

Today we’d like to introduce you to Amy Holmes. 

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Twenty years ago, my sister asked if I’d help her with planning her husband’s family reunion. She wanted me to keep the kids occupied, and there were a lot of kids. I went to a local magic shop and bought some little tricks, some face paints, and a balloon kit complete with a pump, 100 balloons, and an instruction booklet. I found it to be easy and fun. A few days later I went to the library to find ideas for group games and face painting tips. On the shelf, I found another book on balloon animals. As I was checking out the library clerk told me she had a VHS tape on balloon twisting that I could borrow as well. Serendipity! I ended up ordering more balloons and really enjoyed the artistry and creativeness behind it, as well as the immediate feedback that I would get from the people who enjoyed what I was doing. For 10 years I only made balloons for friends and family. In 2011 I was laid off from my job as an administrative assistant and knew I needed to find temporary work until I went back. I had made a friend who was a face painter by trade and she worked with me to show me where I could find balloon twisting tutorials online (because YouTube existed now!) and she mentored me while booking me for birthday parties and kids nights at restaurants. This was the first time I’d ever twisted balloons for strangers- and gotten paid for it! I quickly became addicted to the craft! When I worked as a secretary no one ever asked me how I learned to answer the phones or how I got so good at filing, with balloon twisting people are always fascinated by my story. I love talking to kids and adults and letting them know that it’s never too late to discover something you are passionate about or something that you are simply good at. Looney Ballooney Ohio is a company I created and a personality that I have cultivated to make myself the most memorable person you could meet in any given day. 

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Starting out was interesting, I wanted to practice and learn but didn’t know how or where to start. I managed to find a group of other entertainers in my area and we would meet up and have a ‘balloon jam’ which is similar to when musicians get together and jam. We worked on new designs, taught each other about the best products, about marketing and I found ‘coworkers’ who could understand the very specific struggles that a balloon artist might face. Obviously, the COVID-19 pandemic put an absolute halt on my events because without large gatherings there isn’t much need for a balloon artist. This is when I learned to pivot- quickly. I started to advertise contact-free deliveries! Making custom creations that were delivered in bags to a client’s doorstep. Now that I’m fully vaccinated, I’ve been booking more and more events and life is starting to return to normal. 

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
My favorite thing to make? People smile! I am known for my ability to come up with a creation off the cuff. I love it when I make something straight from the imagination of a child, it’s like being the crayon that colors their picture. I love good manners, but when I hand over my balloon and I see their eyes light up and they squeal with delight it’s the most genuine compliment I can receive. It does my heart good! 

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Look on social media for a group that relates to your interest. Reach out to someone and ask, reach out to a dozen people! Near or far just connect with like-minded individuals until you find your tribe. Share your work, don’t be afraid to ask for advice and feedback. 

Pricing:

• $100 an hour

Contact Info:

• Email: Looneyballooneyoh@yahoo.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/looneyballooney
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/looneyballooney

Image Credits
Amy Holmes