Today we’d like to introduce you to Elaine Frei.
Elaine, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I have always had the entrepreneurial bug, even since I was little girl selling embossed stationary out of my radio flyer wagon to my neighbors. Luft Balloons is the culmination of three prior failed ideas, each building on each other and pivoting to balloons. When designing a dinner centerpiece out of balloons, I couldn’t find quality balloons of consistent color. Plus, the colors were all drab. I knew in that moment that I had to find a solution setting me on my journey to figure out how to make custom color balloons. While building that, I got a number of requests for events and that drew me to the organic balloon trend. I started playing with the technique and fell in love with making large, 3D experiential art objects.
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?
I’d love to meet the one person who has had a smooth road in starting their business. Ha! My biggest struggle has been having my three babies while starting and building a business. It is insanely hard to juggle and at times beyond overwhelming but through the struggle, it has been enlightening; teaching me how to be extremely decisive, get the most out of a shortened workday, and to not have work be 150% my sole focus. I honestly wouldn’t have it any other way.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Luft Balloons – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
I believe that the points where we intersect with the bigger world around us means very little without taking the time to share it with one another. It doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive, but these moments should be special, elevated from the everyday go go go.
At Luft, I am trying to rethink balloons and that experience. We are not just balloon decor company. We are not just another vanilla party brand. We are looking to create balloon art and attach an experience to balloons, whether it be for a big event or as small as picking up a bouquet of helium balloons. Our motto is “Bring the joy!”
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
The helium shop is getting a huge upgrade with tons of new product and palettes so Chicago locals can get something unique and fun when it comes to balloons! We will also be launching a customization tool on our website that will allow the customer to tailor their color needs while being interactive and joyful.
Pricing:
- Helium balloons start at $3/balloon
- Installations start at $450
Contact Info:
- Address: 3279 W. Armitage Avenue
- Website: www.luftballoonstore.com
- Phone: 773-501-5674
- Email: info@luftballoonstore.com
- Instagram: luft.balloon
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Luft-Balloons
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