We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Amara Onokala a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Amara, appreciate you joining us today. Risk taking is something we’re really interested in and we’d love to hear the story of a risk you’ve taken.

In regards to being a business owner, a major risk I took was actually starting my business Splash Garlands. I never saw myself as a creative person or as a business owner especially in the event decor industry. I felt like an impostor because when I interacted with individuals that are in this industry, I hear things like “I have always had a passion for this” or “I knew I was going to do something like this”. It seems like this aspect of art was engraved in their DNA and a part of their characteristics.

I always thought I stumbled into this business by accident but looking back I know it was meant to be. It all began when I wanted to put up a small decoration for my sister’s birthday photoshoot because the weather would not permit our original plans. The balloons turned out to be so beautiful that my friends and family started requesting that I create balloon garlands for their own events.

The next thing I know I’m being asked ” When are you starting your business? I gave an array of absurd responses like “Why would I start a business?” and “Never” but that was the fear and self doubt speaking. I had to step out of my comfort zone and take an immense leap of faith and that was the best decision I ever made.

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

I am Amara Onokala a Nigerian Balloon & Event Decorator serving the DMV region. I got into this industry by what I describe as fate and I ran with it. I have developed so much love and passion for what I do over the past year . My brand offers The Splash Experience , my goal entails bringing my customers’ vision to life and creating a masterpiece every time. I love everything about the planning and the execution of any event . Some might think it’s just balloons or simple decor but it brings me joy when I exceed a customer’s expectation. I am proud of the growth of my business, my growth as an individual and the accomplishments I have attained. I have attained every goal I have set for my business when I first started and I am beyond proud of the next steps and accomplishments yet to come.

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

The best source of new clients has been through social media and customer referrals. With social media it’s very imperative to have a good social media presence across multiple platforms varying from Facebook, Google, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter, Tik Tok and more in order to get my business seen accross the world. With the lasting impression I give my customers they always return and also love referring me to their family members and friends. I had a full circle moments when I did a wedding decor for a customer, I got hired for her baby shower and I am currently working on her child’s first birthday, Instances like this makes it worth it.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

When I started my business we only offered Balloon Decor services and I was very content with that. I got to create art with balloons and push my creativity beyond my own expectations and as my business continued to prosper I have expanded to doing event decorations as well . I am beyond elated for the next step in growth that my business will take.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/splash_garlands/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SplashGarlands/

Image Credits
Photographer: @geegraphy Picnic: @picnicsbypeace