Meet Jalen Parker | Balloon Decorator

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

Hi Jalen, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I have 8 brothers, 1 sister, 6 nephews, and 3 nieces!! Birthday parties are basically every month in my family and we’ve always needed decorations. It started out as a passive thing then I really started to get into it and really loved it. Then I realized, I can actually get paid to do this as well! I didn’t see why I shouldn’t do it; I can have fun and work for myself! I’m not really an 9-5, 5 day a week kind of girl. So I turned my hobby into a business in October of 2022 and been having so much fun balloon decorating throughout the valley!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I have created beautiful arrangements that most people are so shocked to see. I’ve made an ice cream cone and a unicorn carousel out of balloons! I’m always excited to learn and try out new things. Within my first year of business, I’ve been a part of the AZ Bridal Show and had the pleasure to decorate multiple events for HomeSmart. I am excited to be a vendor at the Women’s Expo this October to gain more exposure. Choosing to remove fear and chase the life that I want was the biggest decision I’ve ever made. It hasn’t been easy but I’m honestly enjoying every bit of this journey. It’s very humbling, especially if you have balloons pop in your face often! I want people to choose my business and walk away knowing they have a friend and someone who genuinely cares about their event. I just love to see a beautiful balloon piece followed by smiles in pictures.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my friend is in town we’d have a ball! First, we’d start breakfast off at Brunch & Sip, we need a vibe to get the day started. We’d then need to walk the ‘kind of drunk’ off so maybe a little retail therapy through Fashion Square. We then would go get our nails done at Scottsdale Nail Lounge. Why stop the pamper there? We would go to Well & Being Spa to get a massage and facial. At this point, it’s time to get checked into the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Hotel and get ready for dinner. My friend deserves the best dinner, so we’re going to the Mexicano! The night isn’t over yet! We’ll go all the way to Glendale and party from the Lola to Fat Tuesday to the Carousel Bar! And end our night back at the hotel! Arizona has many great places you just got to find the gems! You’ll meet all kinds of people which is always fun.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I wanted to perfect my technique by taking a balloon masterclass so I reached out to Elisabeth from Pop of Color. I attended her class and had the pleasure of working with multiple balloon artists in the valley. My craft was enhanced and I’m ready for more! I’ve also been inspired by the Badass Habit books and Rich Dad Poor Dad. I’ve learned so much about the type of entrepreneur and person I want to be. I’m honestly grateful for all of the people that trusted me with their events and who’s supported me!

Instagram: https://instagram.com/illestparties?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086775595807&mibextid=LQQJ4d

Image Credits
Jalen Parker, Illest Parties