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

Jessica, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.

I grew up oil painting and have always loved the arts. But with Taiwanese immigrant parents, I was encouraged to pursue a more traditionally stable career. Since I also loved working with kids, I became an elementary school teacher. When my husband started his medical residency, it made sense for me to stay home to raise our children, and life felt like a whirlwind—especially after managing multiple moves across the country to follow my husband’s opportunities.
During the pandemic, I was home with two rambunctious young boys and felt trapped. I needed an outlet, so I turned to DIY projects—learning to wainscot walls, tile backsplashes, and use power tools—much to my husband’s horror. When those projects took a backseat (and I was pregnant with my third child!), I still craved a creative outlet. I began volunteering to decorate my kids’ school events, from back-to-school balloons to auctions and graduations. As word spread, what started as a passion project grew into something bigger. After a year of volunteering, I took the leap and launched my microbusiness—turning a simple hobby into something truly fulfilling.

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

Prior to my balloon business, I was an elementary school teacher before I became a mom. I taught kindergarten and first grade in Philadelphia and Los Angeles and although I did love working with kids, having my husband working crazy hours, it only made sense for me to stay home with the kids.

I started out doing balloon designs as a DIY project for celebrations like bachelorette parties and birthdays. It was just a fun pastime at first, but as I kept at it, I started gaining traction—friends began asking me to create balloon setups for their events, and that’s when I realized it could be something more.
Looking back, I think seeking out a mentor that’s already established in the party decor business, or taking a structured course and practicing consistently rather than sporadically could have sped up my learning process. The most essential skills in this work are patience and truly understanding what clients envision for their events. Because of my grassroot beginnings, I’ve begun offering mentoring services for those looking to start their own business.
One of the biggest obstacles to learning more has been time—right now, my priority is my family. I’m a full-time mom to three busy boys and am actively involved in their school community, so balancing that with fulfilling all my clients’ requests have forced me to find balance, and be ultra productive in utilizing my time and energy wisely.
What makes me the most proud is when my boys tell me how proud they are of me for owning my own business. Their support motivates me, and it’s rewarding to see them share my work with their friends and teachers when I do the balloon installations at school.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

Giving back to schools is especially meaningful to me. As a former elementary school teacher, I’m passionate about supporting the community and bringing school events to life with balloons and catering services. One of my favorite committees to be part of is Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week. Having been on the other side, I know firsthand how much effort teachers and staff pour into their work every single day. Being able to celebrate, recognize, and spoil them—showing just how valued they are—feels incredibly rewarding.

Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

Looking back, I think seeking out a mentor that’s already established in the party decor business, or taking a structured course and practicing consistently rather than sporadically could have sped up my learning process. The most essential skills in this work are patience and truly understanding what clients envision for their events. Because of my grassroot beginnings, I’ve begun offering mentoring services for those looking to start their own business.

Contact Info:

• Website: http://www.balloontini.com
• Instagram: @balloontini
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/balloontini
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/balloontini-san-mateo