Today we’d like to introduce you to J’Mai Edouard.
Hi J’Mai, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, let’s briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
Hey, you all! I have always been the one in my family or among my friends who volunteered to decorate or coordinate events. My first large-scale event was my high school graduation party nearly 20 years ago. I enjoyed designing the event and picking the colors, the textures, the lighting, and the food. Being included in life’s celebrations was part of me and what my family did growing up. My maternal grandfather was a wedding photographer, and my auntie made wedding cakes. So, seeing the joy that their gifts brought to people’s lives and the lasting memories they made was something that I have always admired. However, initially, I did not pursue event planning and design. I got my BS in Electrical Engineering from the University of Michigan and later an MS in Engineering Management from Kennesaw State. Along the way, I was thrilled and excited to help plan baby and bridal showers and other celebrations for family and friends. Then, one day, Antoinette White, owner of Home Clean Heroes of Augusta, asked me to create a balloon garland for her ribbon cutting. This canon event pushed me into balloonery and event design professionally, and I’ve been ballooning ever since!
Alright, let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what challenges have you had to overcome?
The road has sometimes been smooth. The biggest challenge that I’ve faced is getting exposure. I tend to shy away from social media and only know a few people in my area. I had to come up with creative ways to get my work recognized. Several young adult nieces, nephews, and SIL helped me with my social media. I also formed marketing partnerships with Georgia Bridal Shows, Wedding Wire, The Knot, Hello Beautiful Bridal Expo, Anya Bridal, and CSRA Kids to bring attention to my business and work. Also, like many other entrepreneurs, I suffer from Imposter Syndrome from time to time. I am blessed to have family and friends who support, encourage, and challenge me to improve my craft daily. When I see someone on social media who does what I do in my area, I challenge myself to find the positive. I focus on these folks as not my competitors but partners in bringing awareness to our Niche. As I grow in my business and artistry, I know that Mai’s Balloonery & Decor is destined for great things!
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a creative soul. I specialize in all things balloons. My style is organic, and I love to feature texture and depth in my work. I love, love, love balloon garlands, but balloon columns are becoming a favorite of mine. We have die-cutting machines, so we can customize balloons to suit our customer’s needs. We pride ourselves on being there for all of life’s celebrations, from baby showers to funerals and every life moment. Mai’s Balloonery is a one-stop-shop for balloon décor, custom backdrops and arches, table linens, centerpieces, throne and clear chiavari chair rentals, arcade rentals, concession rentals, and luxury white bounce house rentals. When you book with Mai’s, you will be blown away by our designs. And you will also have your time freed up to enjoy your event! Our slogan is “It’s Balloonery,” but don’t get me wrong; we are serious about providing our customers with top-notch customer service and guaranteeing our work. We are also licensed and insured, so have peace of mind that your event is covered.
What would you say has been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is being told ‘No.’ Hearing no and being the perfectionist that I am does not always sit well with me. But at least I know that I’ve tried. I got on the field instead of sitting on the sidelines watching my dreams go by. For every 1000 ‘No’s,’ I only need one yes to move forward with my goals. I am learning that fear is not failure. Instead, it is never acting and letting my idea or dream go unfulfilled.
Pricing:
- Check our website for local events where we offer special discounts.
- Call or visit our website for military, government, and educator discounts!
- Call or visit our website for package pricing!
- Call or visit our site for our Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening Specials available through our Balloons for Business Marketing Program.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.maisballoonery.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maisballoonery/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maisballoonery
Image Credits
@columbiacountychamber for ribbon cutting photo @k.shot_it for all other photos
