We recently connected with Zumi Roberts and have shared our conversation below.

Zumi, appreciate you joining us today. So, naming is such a challenge. How did you come up with the name of your brand?

I’m often asked how I came up with my business name, and I love sharing the story! When I first moved to America, I was struck by the frequent use of the expression ‘Oh wow!’ to transmit emotion, excitement, and surprise. I wanted my business to evoke that same sense of wonder and delight in every service we provide.

The phrase ‘Oh wow’ is not only catchy and memorable but also express the emotional connection I strive to create with our customers. To make it even more personal, I decided to add my name to the business, as I’m the creative force behind every décor, sign, and display. I’m proud to put my name on every aspect of our work, ensuring that each customer experiences a touch of that ‘Oh wow’ magic!

Zumi, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’m Zumi Roberts, owner of OhWow ByZumi, your premier party decoration and rental service. We specialize in creating unforgettable celebrations with our custom balloon displays, yard signs, rentals, and more.

My journey began in 2020, during the pandemic, when I looked for ways to supplement my income. As a former teacher and nanny, I knew people still wanted to celebrate their loved ones, so I started offering custom yard cards for birthdays. As demand grew, I expanded my services, taking online and in-person courses to master balloon art and decoration.

Word-of-mouth referrals helped us grow, and in 2024, we were honored with the award for Best Party Planning Service in our city! This recognition fuels our passion for delivering exceptional experiences. What sets us apart is the love, effort, and dedication we pour into every detail, from balloons to displays and rentals. Our goal is to make every celebration enjoyable and memorable, putting smiles on the faces of kids and adults alike.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

Attracting new clients can be challenging, but social media has revolutionized the way businesses reach customers worldwide. For me, platforms like Instagram and Facebook have been game-changers. By creating engaging videos, posting high-quality photos, and hosting giveaways, I’ve been able to showcase my business and attract new clientele.

Networking events have also been instrumental in growing my customer base. Word-of-mouth referrals are priceless, and these events provide opportunities to connect with potential customers and partners.

A quote that resonates with me is: ‘If you provide great service, you’ll gain one or two new customers, but if you provide poor service, you’ll lose ten.’ This philosophy drives my focus on delivering exceptional service and building meaningful connections with each customer. By prioritizing their needs and experiences, I aim to not only retain their loyalty but also encourage them to become ambassadors for my business.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

When I decided to open a business in Texas, I felt a mix of emotions: excitement for the new opportunities and fear of the unknown, since I didn’t have any business background, and my English wasn’t the best.

I spoke little English, and the thought of communicating with clients, navigating local regulations, and marketing my services seemed daunting.

Despite the challenges, I was determined to succeed. I started small, taking on local clients who were willing to work with me despite the language barrier. I used translation apps, photos, and body language to communicate. It wasn’t easy, but I persevered.

One of my earliest clients was a kind-hearted woman who wanted me to decorate her child’s birthday party. I struggled to understand her requests, but she patiently worked with me, using simple language, a lot of photos and hand gestures. Together, we created a stunning balloon display that exceeded her expectations.

That moment was a turning point for me. I realized that language was not an insuperable barrier and that my passion and dedication could overcome any obstacle. I continued to work hard, taking language classes, attending business workshops, and networking with other entrepreneurs.

Today, my business, OhWow ByZumi, is growing. I’ve built a loyal client base, and my balloon decorations have become a staple at parties and events across the city. I’m proud to be a testament to the power of resilience and determination.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.ohwowbyzumi.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ohwowbyzumi
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ohwowbyzumi
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zumi-roberts-7b91b2124