Meet Kiara James | Event Designer

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

Hi Kiara, how do you think about risk?
In 2018, my parents had an intimate vowel renewal celebrating their marriage. I took on the task of creating a balloon arch for the alter with no experience at all. Orchid Creative Hub (Orchid Balloons) is a product of faith and risks. I took a risk by quitting my corporate jobs to become an entrepreneur. I took a risk by expanding my offerings from just balloons to floral arrangements, custom backdrops, stage design, digital mock ups and more.

My personal motto is “If I can envision it, I can try it. If I can try it, I can perfect it.” With every opportunity, I choose to bet on myself. I believe that if God places an opportunity within my reach, he has given me the ability, creativity and resources to execute.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Orchid Creative Hub started off as balloon company formerly named Orchid Balloons. We now offer Creative Consulting, Interactive Designs, Stage Design, and Backdrops for any occasion. We’ve more recently established presence in stage design. We are excited to bring bold designs and set the pace for upcoming designers.

We’ve gained presence in the event industry mainly by word of mouth. I strive to push design boundaries and deliver fresh and innovative ideas to our clients. Designs that are different can sometimes be met with hesitation. There is an audience that want to simply mimic another designers work. A challenge we’ve faced is finding clientele that are willing to take risk and think outside of the box. We love all of our clients and we want to deliver fresh ideas and be creative.

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?
Detroit has evolved over the years increasing revitalization. An ideal day in the city of Detroit would include a stay at The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit or the Shinola hotel in downtown Detroit. I will provide two options because it is impossible to choose just one. Next breakfast at Dime Store or The Hudson Cafe and immediately following, a stroll through Campus Martius to walk off the food.

I love music and art. A visit to Detroit Institute of Arts or the Motown Museum is always a good idea. Next we would have lunch at Babo or Central Kitchen. Following a fresh snack from the Eastern Market.

Detroit are known for football, basketball, concerts and shows at Ford Field, Little Caesar’s Arena and Comerica Park which are all located in the heart of Detroit. No need for a car, the Detroit Shuttle Service can take you from point A to B. Ending the night with dinner at Parc or Prime + Proper.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to thank my husband, Darius James who has come along side me during my entrepreneurial journey. He’s sacrificed time and energy to jump in when I need him. He does not hesitate to put in overtime at home when work calls.

I also, want to thank my mom, dad and my first employee, Dora. Dora, you have been present through the hills and valleys. You have extended grace when I did not have business figured out. You came alongside of me and made it happen. Thank you and I am excited about your new journey in NY.

Website: Orchidcreativehub.com

Instagram: @orchidcreativehub

Other: Facebook.com/orchidballoons

Image Credits
The Hubble Media @thehubblemedia