We had the good fortune of connecting with Chelsea Kephart and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chelsea, how do you think about risk?
I have not always been a risk taker until last year when my husband and I decided to move across the country from Buffalo, NY to Tucson, AZ with our two young sons. Our life was starting to feel monotonous and we realized that that was not the life we wanted to live. Moving across the country brought a lot of excitement, change, growth and some unknowns. It made me get out of my comfort zone and I feel that it has given me the confidence to start my own business, DesertBalloon. I want to live a life showing my children that it’s okay to try new things, problem solve and take risks. I cannot expect them to go out of their comfort zone if I never leave mine. I am a registered nurse turned stay at home mom. I have always enjoyed making parties that I have planned feel festive and special and I want to be able to bring that joy to other people so I started DesertBalloon.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I got the idea for DesertBalloon because of my love for throwing birthday parties once I had children. A party is not a party without balloons. Balloons bring a fun, whimsy and festive vibe to any type of celebration. I have loved making fun balloon set ups for my children’s birthdays and equally enjoying it doing it for my clients. I am still relatively new to the balloon business and I continue to work on getting my name and work out there. I genuinely care about each of my client’s visions and making them come to life. Balloons are generally a focal point for pictures at parties, showers and events so even though the balloons will deflate in a few days, they will still be seen for years to come.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I feel like anyone coming to Tucson needs to check out Saguaro National Park and stop at Saguaro Corners to eat after a hike. As someone who is not a native Tucsonan, the saguaros and mountains here are so majestic. Also be sure to swing by Licks Ice Cream and Coffee in Catalina!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My sister, Courtney Ellert, has been my biggest cheerleader. She is my personal graphic designer and photographer. She designed my website and business logo and is always ready to come lend a helping hand with a balloon installation. Courtney is the most creative, loving and supportive person I know. I feel lucky to call her my sister and best friend. Her husband, Jeremiah, is also always willing to help and bounce ideas off of. I am so grateful for both of them.

I also need to shoutout my husband, Ryan, my two boys, Harrison and Sawyer and my parents. They are always there for me no matter what.

Website: https://desertballoon.com/

Instagram: @desertballoon

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