We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful MAELANA CROCKETT. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with MAELANA below.

MAELANA, appreciate you joining us today. Do you wish you had waited to pursue your creative career or do you wish you had started sooner?

If I could go back in time, I actually do think I would have started my creative career a little sooner. I officially stepped into the creative space in 2020, right in the middle of the pandemic. It was a major turning point in my life—I had just welcomed my daughter, left a toxic relationship, and was trying to rebuild my sense of self, my stability, and my mental health.
What started as a way to generate some extra income quickly became a much-needed emotional outlet. I discovered that creating—especially working with balloons—came incredibly naturally to me. It was one of the first things in a long time that made me feel grounded and inspired at the same time. Looking back, I realize I had this creative ability long before 2020, I just hadn’t given myself permission or space to explore it.
If I could change anything, I wouldn’t necessarily change the timing of when I found this passion, because it came into my life when I needed it most. But I would have built connections with other balloon artists sooner. The community is so supportive, and collaborating with other creatives has pushed my skills, boosted my confidence, and opened doors I didn’t know existed. Starting to network earlier would have accelerated my growth and expanded my creative toolkit much faster.
Overall, I’m grateful for how my journey unfolded. The timing shaped my purpose, but the experience taught me that sometimes your passion is waiting for you—you just have to be ready to lean into it.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

For those who may not know me yet, my name is Mae, and I actually got into the balloon décor industry completely by accident. At the time, I was going through a major life transition—rebuilding my sense of self, caring for my newborn daughter, and trying to recover mentally and emotionally after leaving a toxic relationship. I needed something that could serve as both a creative outlet and a way to bring in extra income. What started as a small experiment quickly became a passion and, eventually, a business: Marvel at Mae’s Designs.
I provide a full range of balloon décor services for all types of events—birthdays, corporate celebrations, weddings, baby showers, graduations, and yes, even funerals. I truly believe any moment worth acknowledging can be elevated with thoughtful, intentional décor. My role is to bring joy, warmth, and personality to every experience, and to help my clients create unforgettable moments.
What sets my work apart is the level of care I invest in each project. I don’t just design balloons—I build relationships. I take the time to get to know my clients on a deeper, more personal level so I can understand their style, their story, and what matters most to them. That connection becomes especially important in high‑pressure moments when a quick decision is needed or when something unexpected happens, like a balloon popping right before guests arrive. Because I truly understand my clients, I can make those choices confidently on their behalf.
I’m most proud of the trust and loyalty I’ve built with the people I’ve served. After the event is over, my clients often tell me they miss talking to their “old friend Mae”—and that’s exactly the experience I aim to create. Marvel at Mae’s Designs isn’t just a décor company; it’s a brand rooted in connection, creativity, and genuine care. I want potential clients and followers to know that when you work with me, you’re not just hiring a balloon artist—you’re partnering with someone who treats your event like her own and pours heart into every detail.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

One of the most defining moments of my journey—and one that truly reflects my resilience—came not when I started my business, but when I had to figure out how to keep it alive while returning to a traditional office job.
I started my balloon décor business in 2020 during one of the most chaotic periods of my life. I had just had my daughter, ended a toxic relationship, and was trying to rebuild my confidence, my stability, and my identity. What began as a mental health outlet quickly became something much bigger: a source of joy, income, and purpose. Working from home during the pandemic gave me the flexibility to pour energy into this new passion, and the business grew faster than I ever expected.
But when offices reopened, I had to return to work in person. Suddenly, I was juggling early‑morning commutes, full workdays, motherhood, and a thriving business that depended on my creativity and availability. Overnight, the balance I had built was tested. I had moments where I questioned whether I could keep everything moving without losing myself again.
What kept me going was the reminder of why I started: to rebuild my life, provide for my children, and do something that genuinely made me happy. I leaned into planning, late nights, and an incredible support system. There were times when I’d leave the office, pick up my daughter, and head straight into designing balloon installations until midnight. It wasn’t easy, and I was tired—but I wasn’t willing to give up the thing that brought me so much joy.
What I’m most proud of is that not only did the business survive, it continued to grow. I learned how capable I truly am. I learned that resilience isn’t loud—it’s showing up again and again, even when the circumstances shift, even when the comfort of routine disappears.
And that experience shaped how I show up for my clients today. I know what it feels like to push through challenges while still wanting to deliver something beautiful, meaningful, and personal. That’s why I design with heart. That’s why I take the time to truly know my clients. That’s why people walk away feeling like they were working with an old friend.
My resilience didn’t just build my business—it built my confidence, my creativity, and my entire outlook on what’s possible for me.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

I believe society can do so much more to support artists, creatives, and a thriving creative ecosystem—because creativity isn’t just decoration, it’s culture, healing, expression, and connection. My own journey has shown me how transformational creativity can be, especially during major life transitions. So when I think about support, I think of it on multiple levels:
First, we need more visibility and respect for creative work as real work. A lot of people don’t see the planning, labor, skill, or emotional energy that goes into what artists do. For balloon artists, event designers, and so many other creatives, it’s not “just balloons” or “just décor”—it’s storytelling. It’s creating moments people will remember forever. Society can support us simply by acknowledging the value we bring.
Second, access to resources and education matters. Many creatives, myself included, start their journeys on accident or out of necessity. When I began, I didn’t know about the business side of creative work or how important networking would be. I think society—schools, organizations, even local communities—could offer more accessible workshops, grants, mentorship opportunities, and shared spaces where artists can learn, practice, and collaborate without barriers.
Third, we need stronger community support. When artists support each other, everyone rises. I’ve seen firsthand how connecting with other balloon artists changed my path—sharing techniques, cheering each other on, and helping each other through challenges. Society should encourage collaboration over competition and create more platforms where creatives can connect, showcase their work, and be discovered.
Lastly, supporting a creative ecosystem means supporting the whole person behind the craft. Many of us are balancing full‑time jobs, families, and our creative passions. When I had to return to the office after building my business from home, I faced a whole new set of challenges. Flexible workplaces, mental health support, and economic stability all contribute to an environment where creativity can truly thrive.
If we want a vibrant creative world, we have to invest in the people who make it possible—not only by buying their work, but by believing in their talent, their time, and their stories.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: marvelatmae
• Facebook: Marvel At Mae’s Designs