Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Allisia Medley. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Allisia thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. It’s easy to look at a business or industry as an outsider and assume it’s super profitable – but we’ve seen over and over again in our conversation with folks that most industries have factors that make profitability a challenge. What’s biggest challenge to profitability in your industry?

Ohhh, from the outside, event planning and décor looks glamorous — like we just play with balloons, sprinkle glitter, and throw Pinterest-worthy parties every weekend. But behind the scenes? It’s a beautiful (and chaotic) mix of artistry, logistics, sweat, and last-minute group chats that start with “Sooo slight change of plans…” 😅🎈💪

The biggest challenge to profitability in this industry? Time and customization. Every event is a one-of-a-kind production — tailored to a specific theme, space, vibe, and budget. That means no copy-paste packages. At Inflated Affairs, we’re essentially building pop-up magic from scratch every time.

Take this one event: a 90s-themed birthday bash with custom backdrops, color-blocked balloon garlands, and retro props. The vibe was everything! But the day before the event, the outdoor venue fell through (I guess Mother Nature RSVP’d last minute 🙄) and we had to move it indoors — completely changing the setup plan. We had to redesign layouts, remeasure, and haul everything up a set of stairs… all while keeping the vibe flawless and on-theme. Let’s just say the only thing tighter than the deadline was the profit margin. 😂

Don’t get me wrong — we live for the “wow” moments and happy tears. But the road to profitability? It’s paved with adaptability, strategy, and a whole lotta hustle. 💖

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

Hey y’all! I’m Al’lisia Medley, the face, hands, heart (and often the biceps 💪🏽) behind Inflated Affairs — a boutique event planning and décor company that turns everyday spaces into unforgettable celebrations. Based in Delaware but ready to roll wherever the party takes us, I specialize in creating highly customized events that feel just as good as they look. 🎉✨

My journey into this world? Honestly, it started like a lot of great ideas — helping out with family gatherings, school parties, and friend birthdays until someone said, “You should really do this for real.” And once I started, I couldn’t stop. What began as a creative outlet quickly turned into a full-on business rooted in passion, precision, and Pinterest boards gone wild. 😄

At Inflated Affairs, we offer full event setups, balloon décor (including those dreamy organic garlands), themed tablescapes, backdrops, custom props, and treat table styling — whether it’s for birthdays, baby showers, graduations, or just a “because we can” kind of celebration. We also collaborate with other local creatives for larger-scale events, because teamwork really does make the dream work.

But here’s the real tea — we don’t just decorate events, we elevate experiences. My clients come to me when they want something that feels personal, thoughtful, and one-of-a-kind. I help take the stress off their plate and bring their vision to life — even if that vision includes last-minute changes, tight spaces, or that one uncle who swears he’s the DJ. 😂

What sets Inflated Affairs apart? I’d say it’s the mix of creativity, problem-solving, and genuine care. I don’t treat events like transactions — I treat them like milestones that deserve magic. I listen, I adapt, I obsess over the details so my clients can just show up and shine.

I’m most proud of the fact that I’ve built this business from scratch, stayed true to my style, and created moments that people still talk about long after the last balloon has deflated. There’s something really special about knowing your work helped create joy, connection, and memories.

So whether you’re planning a major milestone or just want to make your next gathering extra special, Inflated Affairs is here to make it happen — with heart, hustle, and a whole lot of flair. 💕🎈

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

Honestly? The best source of new clients for Inflated Affairs has hands down been good ol’ fashioned networking and word of mouth — and I mean the real kind. Like, “my cousin’s friend’s coworker said you did that baby shower with the butterflies and now I need you for my gender reveal” kind of word of mouth. 😂💕

People talk — and when they’re happy, they share. I always say: the vibe you bring to a room stays with people longer than even the prettiest backdrop. A lot of my bookings have come from guests at events I’ve styled who pull me aside mid-celebration like, “Okay… who did this?!” And that’s my favorite kind of introduction — one that starts with a feeling before they even know my name.

Networking has been huge, too — not in a stiff, pass-out-business-cards way, but through building real relationships with other creatives, vendors, moms’ groups, small biz owners, and local event spaces. Whether it’s collaborating on styled shoots, showing love on social media, or just showing up and being helpful, those connections naturally turn into referrals and repeat business.

And honestly, the trust that comes from a personal recommendation? You can’t beat it. It means someone experienced the Inflated Affairs magic and felt confident enough to pass my name along — and that kind of support means everything. 💖

So yep — while social media is great for showing off the visuals, it’s the real connections and good word-of-mouth that keep this balloon-fueled train moving. 🚂🎈

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

Whew — pivot? I’m IN the pivot! 😅

Right now, I’m navigating the wild ride of transitioning from being a full-time paramedic to becoming a full-time event planning business owner — and let me tell you, both roles require fast thinking, steady hands, and a whole lotta heart. ❤️‍🔥

I’m still proudly working as a medic while building Inflated Affairs — and this season of life feels like living in two worlds at once. One day I’m responding to 911 calls, and the next I’m inflating balloons, designing backdrops, and figuring out how to fit a 7-foot shimmer wall into an SUV. 🚑➡️🎉

It’s not easy. There are times I’ve worked overnight shifts, slept a few hours, and then hit the road to set up an event with a smile and a toolkit in hand. But I’m doing it because I believe in this brand and the magic it creates. I’ve seen the joy on clients’ faces, the impact of turning someone’s vision into reality, and I know deep down — this is the work I’m meant to grow into full-time.

This pivot has taught me patience, resilience, and the power of consistency. It’s not always glamorous, and it’s definitely not always easy, but every booking brings me one step closer to the dream: turning Inflated Affairs into my full-time reality.

So if you see me out here hustling in 5-11s one day and setting up a balloon wall the next — just know I’m in the middle of the glow-up. 😉✨

Contact Info:

• Website: https://form.jotform.com/251416317967160
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inflatedaffairs
• Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/profile.php?
• Other: [email protected]