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

Erica, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Before we get into specifics, let’s talk about success more generally. What do you think it takes to be successful?

Two words, work ethic! To be successful you have to be hungry for it! You must be driven. If it was simple and easy everyone would be successful. The most important part of success is being organized, and do your research!

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

I am an event stylist, specializing in balloon decor. I have always loved a good DIY and took on the challenge when I made a balloon garland for my boys birthdays in 2020. Soon after family and friends asked me to help decorate their parties/events. Through word of mouth I began working with more clients and practicing to perfect my techniques. A year and a half later I now offer a variety of backdrops, neon signs, marquee numbers, and many different props. If I don’t have it in my inventory I will gladly assist you in finding a vendor. One thing that sets me apart is I will always put my customers needs first! I always reassure my clients that I come prepared and many can vouch that. I only use the best quality of materials. Recently I had a client share my installation was just going to become a permanent part of her home decor because after weeks it still looked as good as it did day one. She stated “It was just too pretty to pop!”. As I have been a part of many events I have seen many problems that have a unique solution and to be able to step in with an easy fix for a client means everything to me. I’m most proud that my two sons get to come along for the ride and watch their mommy become a boss. Constantly hearing WOW, WOAH, THATS COOL from them easily keeps me going. I want to show them that anything is possible as long as you are determined. Growing a business from the ground up is hard, but it is so rewarding! My balloon decor will be displayed in photos/memories for years to come and that amazes me and gives me so much joy. I truly love what I do.

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

Social media! It is probably the most important tool for a small growing business! Once I made my social media accounts the amount of shares and follows was so motivating! When a client tags my business page their followers click on my page and inquire. Nothing beats free promotions! Second, word of mouth and business cards! I never knew how just leaving a few cards at each clients house/business can make the biggest difference! I like to think with these two methods I am able to bridge the gap in generations, and how they prefer to contact me.

Can you talk to us about how your side-hustle turned into something more.

I never intended to have a side hustle let alone a business. In the beginning I would have maybe 3-5 events a month mainly family and friends. After working with local businesses and families, I had a successful summer 2021, but still considered it a side hustle. I kept it steady through the end of 2021 which tends to be the event industry’s slower season with the holidays. For the last 5 months I have been booked solid every weekend. Earlier this year I was speaking to a coworker and referred to my business as my side hustle, she laughed and said “I think your 9-5 is your side hustle now!” In that moment I realized she was right. Having a 9-5 plus a full time side hustle is not for the weak! Luckily my “job” allows for a lot of flexibility and I am able to do both. In 2022 I’ve been more focused on growing my business and finally taking the next step. To see my business grow and realize I can live off what I love to do is an incredible moment!

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://instagram.com/ecballoonsanddesigns?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
• Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/ecballoonsanddesigns/