Today we’d like to introduce you to Valerie Gonzalez.
Hi Valerie, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
In 2018, while working as a dispatcher for Caltrans on graveyard shifts with two kids, I found myself overwhelmed. Despite the challenges, my passion for planning and DIY party decor persisted. After going all out for my daughter’s unicorn-themed first birthday, I decided to take a leap of faith and pursue event planning. Securing my first job in April led to more clients, and my business flourished through word of mouth. Recognizing the sudden demand for balloons, I enrolled in a balloon course, a decision that significantly contributed to my business growth. Today, I proudly serve clients across Los Angeles and parts of Orange County, having worked with esteemed names like Westfield Malls, Disneyland, Beverly Wilshire Four Seasons, LA Marathon, to name a few. Currently, I’m collaborating with various hospitals in Los Angeles. Grateful for my clients’ trust in my art and work ethic, I’m excited about the journey ahead and the opportunities it holds.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The journey hasn’t been smooth at all. I secured my first job with an influencer in Los Angeles in February 2020, planned and coordinated my first wedding, and things were looking promising. Bookings were lined up well into the year, and I was thrilled to have a steady stream of clients. Then, COVID-19 hit. Within a week, all my events were canceled, and clients were asking for refunds. It was a frightening moment. Thankfully, my clients understood that I couldn’t refund them since I had already invested time and money in planning their events. Instead, I offered them credits, hoping to sort things out once the pandemic was over. Surprisingly, drive-through celebrations became popular overnight, and my business started booming. People were celebrating birthdays on any day of the week, keeping me busy. Along the way, I faced other challenges like pricing, taxes, and managing business expenses, but I see them as typical hurdles that entrepreneurs encounter.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I work in the event industry, specializing in balloon art, and I’ve built a reputation for providing luxurious balloons and backdrops in the Los Angeles area. One of my greatest achievements is starting a business from scratch while raising small children. It’s a full-time job in itself, and running a successful business simultaneously is no small feat. I take pride in never giving up. What distinguishes me from others is my commitment to treating each event as if it were my own. I don’t leave until I’m certain my clients are thrilled with their setup. I recognize that my clients have choices, so I strive to deliver the best service possible.
What makes you happy?
My family brings me joy and fulfills me in every aspect of my life. Whenever I feel overwhelmed, sad, stressed, I know I can rely on them for support. Whether it’s my husband, children, parents, or brothers, I feel incredibly fortunate to have them in my life. Witnessing their happiness brings me immense joy. Their pride in me is incredibly rewarding and serves as motivation to keep moving forward.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.blissfulhearts.info
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blissfulhearts/p/CbFcQsXL8r0/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/blissfulhearts-hawthorne?osq=blissfulhearts&override_cta=Request+pricing+%26+availability
Image Credits
@wanderingfreephoto
