Meet Nora Saffell | Balloon and Creative Artist

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

Hi Nora, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
One of the most important factors behind my success is the joy I get from creating something special for each client, whether a milestone, shower, kids party, school event or any other celebration, I put my heart into each creation, and walk the extra mile to make sure I understand what they want, paying close attention to all of the details of their vision, and that the colors, sizes, shapes, themes, and styles all reflect that. This builds trust, and relationship with our clients.

Seeing the faces light up with joy after a setup is completed is the motivation I thrive on to continue doing what I love to do best.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What sets me apart from others is how much I care about making each event memorable and personal, It’s not just about inflating balloons, it’s about creating memories by understanding their vision, no matter what the celebration. I also offer personalization options, Whether it be a jumbo balloon with a restaurant logo, or a childs birthday balloon with their favorite character, their name or a custom request, Creating that memory is our specialty. (we even offer cleaning and teardown help at event conclusion.) I want my clients to know, and feel that for me, it’s not just about the service, but I genuinely care about my clients entire experience.

I’m most proud that I have the ability to bring so much joy for kids and adults, and see that evidenced by the smiles on their faces.

How I got to where I am today:
I started this as a side business during the pandemic. Attending online zoom classes and conventions, while under quarantine. but it wasn’t easy, there were long nights, and early mornings, sometimes with no sleep. Moments where I wanted to give up. It was hard. From that moment I started, until just a month ago, I was balancing a full time career, while growing my balloon business, but my passion for bringing my clients joy, has kept me going, striving to go higher and learn more.

I overcame several challenges by trial and error, as well as ingenuity. Learning by experience. Designing, planning, ordering, scheduling, delivering, creating, installing, all were new avenues for learning that I have learned to keep organized and prioritized, one thing at a time. I’ve also become reliant on leaning on others for help when needed, When things get hectic, I often remind myself of why I started doing this, and the joy, happiness and smiles it brings to my clients.

The lessons I’ve learned along the way are:

– Being patient throughout the process, even when challenges arrive.
– I’ve also learned to trust myself, every challenge has caused me to learn, grow and become better.
– Mistakes are not failures, but learning opportunities for growing and learning.
– Balloons pop, always have extras on hand.
– Be ready to improvise, and apply your expertise when it’s required
– The client is always right, make their vision happen no matter what!

I want the world to know that behind every setup of balloons we do, there is a heart, a team, and a dreamer making visions come true. I love what I do, and I put love in every setup. I am honored and thankful every time someone chooses us to fulfill their vision. My business is not just about balloons, but to bring their celebration visions to life!

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?
The Ronald Reagan Library The Huntington Library
Sunset at Point Mugu
Duke’s in Malibu
Malibu Seafood and Fresh Fish Market
El Cielo beverly hills
The Getty mansion
Catalina Island – Food and Excursions
Porto’s Bakery
Pinnochio Italian Restaurant
Andrea’s in Ventura
Sailing
In-n-out

Image Credits
Nora and Kirk Saffell