Today we’d like to introduce you to Tommy DeLorenzo.
Tommy, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
As long as I can remember, I loved balloons. My parents made it possible for me to meet a group of professional balloon artists at an early age and that experience of seeing all that could be done with balloons as an art medium inspired me. When I was 14, I decided to start Balloons by Tommy. It was originally just a fun way to make a little money through high school and college. Soon, after college, the business had grown to a point where it was my main focus and my only source of income that I ran out of my apartment in Chicago and delivering out of my car. Now, my husband and I own the business together and we couldn’t be happier. We went from our apartment to our home and now have a warehouse with 2 additional full-time employees along with many part-time helpers.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Any small business owner can struggle with proving that their ideas can provide longevity and sustainability. It can be hard to make something out of nothing. It can be even harder to explain to others that your career choice is in balloon artistry. I feel that it’s important to follow your passion and realize that the main voice you should hear loudest is your own.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Balloons by Tommy is a balloon company that specializes in custom event decor. We consider ourselves to be balloon purists and try to approach every job as a piece of art using balloons. We are known for our unique large installations as well as the Chicago Pride Parade.
We strive to look beyond the typical idea of what balloons are. This allows us to create an atmosphere for our clients throughout an event space. We pride ourselves and enjoy creating an emotional response… something that won’t be found in a typical party store.
What were you like growing up?
I was the social butterfly. I would get in trouble in school for always talking. My teachers would often move me around the room to prevent me from sitting next to my friends but I would always laugh because there was no one that I really didn’t enjoy talking to. I was your typical slightly awkward teen who enjoyed marching band and just being out with friends. I met some amazing people while working at a roller rink and throughout college that has shaped me and the direction of my business. One of which is still by my side as Balloons by Tommy’s marketing expert and top balloon engineer.
Pricing:
- Our minimum order starts at 300 dollars
Contact Info:
- Website: www.balloonsbytommy.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/balloonsbytommy/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/balloonsbytommy/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/balloonsbytommy?s=09
- Other: http://www.balloonsbytommy.com/
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