Today we’d like to introduce you to Seth and Theresa Harding.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Seth and Theresa. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Seth: I’m originally from the Midwest and came to California to pursue a career in the entertainment industry. Within a couple of years, a friend from school introduced me to the world of children’s birthday parties and more specifically performing as a clown. I immediately fell in love with working with and entertaining children. Being a clown: I learned a bit of magic, a bit of face painting… and MOST importantly, how to twist balloons! The reactions one could get from your audience (both kids and adults alike) with these balloon creations are addicting! After several years of working on and off for other event companies, Theresa and I eventually decided to start our own company… Madcap Balloons, focusing solely on balloon work.
Theresa: Telling people how I got started is my favorite story! I tell them I had to marry a clown to learn how to make balloons! The reactions I get are priceless! I had to practice quite a bit to catch up to Seth’s many years of experience. I would wake up extra early to practice speed and new balloon designs! I came from a background of Musical Theater and I believe that work ethic and drive helped in my tenacity to learn and practice. When I finally performed my first event – it was mind blowing! There is a great reward in creating works of balloon art and seeing everyone light up and experience joy! Especially during a time when there’s so much negativity in the world, I don’t see myself as a Balloon Artist, but rather a smile creator. I am entering my 7th year of twisting and I still have the best time at all our events!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Theresa: Well, I am a firm believer that in times of adversity – you will either see opportunities or obstacles depending on your attitude. This perspective along with a great partner is the reason why we have been able to accomplish what we have with Madcap Balloons.
Theresa: Seth and I had been coworkers and the company we both worked for eventually went under. We decided that it was time to seek another form of income and we would pursue something that would allow us to keep working together. There was a time when we were both unemployed and I decided to go back to school part-time, while we were attempting to build our balloon business.
A month before we decided to officially open our own company – we became engaged! It was a momentous milestone for us – on a personal and business level. During this time, we found out that Seth was diagnosed with a series of medical conditions. Trying to launch a business with all the stress of wedding planning, midterms/finals from school, doctor’s appointments, and procedures tested us that first year. What doesn’t kill you, makes you stronger, right? Despite the obstacles at the time, we were able to create a firm foundation and take the opportunity to grow stronger together.
Seth: Honestly though, I think with everything that was going on – Madcap gave us clarity and focus. During an extremely challenging start, Theresa and I were able to collaborate and grew closer accordingly. While my health issues may have felt overwhelming at times, Theresa’s support reminded me that not only was I marrying a partner in love, but a partner in business as well.
Please tell us about your business.
Seth: What we do is provide entertainment by way of twisting and sculpting balloons for a variety of events. Everything from birthday parties, corporate and non-profit events, schools, weddings, religious celebrations, baby showers and even memorials! One of the things that we are most proud of as a company is the level of enthusiasm that we have been able to maintain over the last several years.
Theresa: I believe the thing that sets us apart from others is that we are a family business. We currently have friends and family who participate in learning balloons and share in our events. It has been wonderful to hear of their stories of joy when they describe twisting balloons for others. Being able to work together has made us appreciate each other more and focus on the important things in life. Our common goal is to create memorable experiences at whatever event we partake in. I mean, if you think about it, Life itself is a party – here at Madcap Balloons, we just make sure you have your balloon animals.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
Seth: We are looking to expand some of the services to hopefully include balloon decoration, centerpieces, and party favors. As well as expanding our entertainment roster to offer more face painting and airbrush tattoo services.
Theresa: I wouldn’t mind seeing our family of balloon artists expand as well! With more events and services, we would need some new, down-to-earth, positive, and eager to learn folks who want to help us party! I may be biased in saying this, but being able to make balloons at a party is the best gig ever!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.madcapballoons.com
- Phone: 818-528-4712
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @madcapballoons
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/madcapballoons
- Twitter: @madcapballoons
Image Credit:
Monica Salazar
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