Today we’d like to introduce you to Sean Edwards
Hi Sean, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I started my journey with balloons when I was just 12 years old. My parents got me a balloon kit, and I became instantly hooked. I practiced tirelessly, twisting balloons into animals and designs for kids in my neighborhood. Before long, I was performing at restaurants, honing my skills and learning how much joy balloons could bring to others.
When I moved to Los Angeles, I took a leap by opening a small kiosk in a local mall. It was a humble start, but it gave me a platform to connect with clients and build a reputation for unique balloon artistry. With just a balloon kit and a couple hundred dollars to my name, I worked hard to grow my business, eventually expanding into full-service balloon decor.
Over the years, I’ve had the honor of working with incredible clients, from A-list celebrities like Miley Cyrus and Beyoncé and global brands like Facebook and Nike to non-profits and small businesses. My passion for creativity and my theater background—studying at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts and California Institute of the Arts—have deeply influenced my approach, combining artistry with a sense of performance in every project.
Today, as the Founder of The Balloon Guy, I lead a team of talented artists who share my commitment to creating extraordinary experiences. Whether it’s a corporate event, a private celebration, or a community gathering, we pride ourselves on bringing happiness, artistry, and professionalism to every job. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m excited to see where it takes us next.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road—like any entrepreneurial journey, mine has had its share of challenges. When I started, I had very limited resources. I began with just a balloon kit, a few hundred dollars, and a dream. Figuring out how to market myself, secure clients, and stand out in a competitive city like Los Angeles was daunting at first.
One of the biggest struggles was learning how to scale the business while maintaining the quality and creativity that set us apart. As demand grew, I had to hire and train a team, which came with its own learning curve. Finding talented people who could match the level of artistry and professionalism I envisioned was a challenge, but it’s been rewarding to build a team that shares my passion.
Another hurdle was balancing the creative side of the business with the operational side. I’m an artist at heart, but running a business requires a lot of administrative and logistical work—managing schedules, inventory, and budgets while still finding time to innovate and dream up new designs. Learning how to delegate and streamline these processes has been key to growth.
The pandemic was also a major test. With events canceled or scaled back, the demand for balloon installations dropped. I had to pivot quickly, offering smaller Grab & Go garlands and balloon bouquets that clients could use for intimate celebrations. This not only kept the business afloat but also taught me the value of adaptability and resilience.
Despite the challenges, every struggle has pushed me to grow. These experiences have taught me the importance of perseverance, creativity, and never losing sight of the joy and wonder that balloons can bring to people’s lives. Looking back, I wouldn’t trade the tough times—they’ve shaped both me and the business into what we are today.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
At its core, my work is about bringing joy and creating extraordinary experiences through balloons. I’m the Founder of The Balloon Guy, one of Los Angeles’ leading balloon decor companies, where we specialize in transforming spaces for every kind of celebration—be it a private party, corporate event, or community fundraiser.
We create custom balloon decor and installations that range from elegant arches and photo backdrops to bold, large-scale sculptures. Whether it’s a whimsical kid’s birthday or a high-profile brand activation, we tailor every design to fit the unique vision of the event.
What truly sets us apart is the level of artistry we bring to our work. My background in theater heavily influences how I approach balloon design—I see it as a medium for storytelling and creativity.
While I’m proud of the big-name collaborations and large-scale installations, the moments that stand out the most are the ones where I can see the pure joy our work brings. Whether it’s a child marveling at a balloon animal or a bride tearing up at her dream wedding decor, those reactions are why I do what I do.
Beyond the balloons, it’s the personal touch and passion that I pour into every project. I’m not just running a business—I’m building experiences that foster connection, joy, and celebration. My team shares that same dedication, and together, we’re redefining what’s possible with balloons.
Ultimately, it’s our focus on Spreading Joy, Incredible Artistry, and Excellent Customer Service that makes us stand out at The Balloon Guy. We create more than just decorations; we create memories that last long after the event is over.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
One of the things I love most about Los Angeles is its endless creativity and diversity. This city is a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and talent, and that energy is truly inspiring. As someone who thrives on artistic expression, I feel like LA is the perfect canvas—it’s a place where innovation and individuality are celebrated. From the vibrant art scene to the iconic entertainment industry, LA is a hub of creativity that fuels my work.
I also love how the city embraces events and celebrations. Whether it’s a private gathering in the hills, a product launch in Hollywood, or a community event in downtown LA, there’s always a reason to celebrate. That constant demand for creativity makes LA the perfect place for a balloon artist and entrepreneur like me to thrive.
If I had to pick something I like least, it would probably be the traffic—no surprise there! Getting from one event to another can be a challenge, especially when you’re transporting delicate balloon installations. It requires a lot of planning and patience to navigate the city efficiently while ensuring everything arrives in perfect condition.
Another thing that can be challenging is the fast-paced, high-pressure nature of the city. While it drives creativity, it can also create a lot of stress, especially when juggling multiple high-profile events. However, those challenges also push me to grow, adapt, and become better at what I do.
In the end, even the less favorable aspects of LA contribute to its unique character, and I wouldn’t trade the opportunities it provides for anything.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.theballoonguyla.com/
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/balloonguyla
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/balloonguyla
- Twitter: https://x.com/balloonguyla
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Balloonguyla
- Yelp: https://www.youtube.com/@Balloonguyla
- Other: https://www.theballoonguyla.com/custom-balloon-decor
