Inspiring Conversations with Jessica Cruz Torres of MakeItPop_PartyDecor

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Cruz Torres

Hi Jessica, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
From Parks to Balloons: A Journey of Passion and Creativity

For many, a childhood spent at local parks is filled with games and friendships, but for me, it was the foundation of my career and business. Growing up in the City of Commerce, I was deeply involved in youth programs that not only kept me engaged while my parents worked but also introduced me to art, sports, and a variety of skills that I continue to use today.

Inspired by the mentors who guided me, I wanted to give back to my community. I started as a Recreation Leader and, driven by ambition, moved up through different roles—Recreation Supervisor, Dance Coach, Preschool Instructor, and Day Camp Specialist. I wore many hats, always eager to learn and grow. But amidst all these responsibilities, I was frequently called upon to decorate events, from intimate celebrations to the city’s grand Fourth of July festivities.

It was during this time that two incredible mentors, Yolanda Gallardo and Adolfo Marquez, helped shape my approach to event design. Adolfo, in particular, set high expectations, always striving for what he called “Disney Magic”—an attention to detail and a standard of excellence that pushed me beyond my limits. The experience taught me more than just decorating; it honed my budgeting, logistics, coordination, staff management, and time management skills. It instilled in me a philosophy I carry to this day: Every event I create must be executed as if it were for my own family—full of heart, passion, and unforgettable moments.

The Leap into Balloons

Determined to elevate my craft, I sought out new techniques. I started with classic balloon columns but quickly realized I wanted more. I taught myself through pictures, YouTube videos, and my first-ever balloon class at Jokers Party Supply, led by Betallic. My hunger for knowledge only grew.

Then, COVID-19 hit. While the world slowed down, balloon art surged in popularity with drive-by celebrations. I jumped into the trend, working non-stop while still maintaining my job at Commerce. But as much as I loved creating, the workload became overwhelming. I realized I had lost the joy in what I once loved.

My husband saw it before I did. “Jess, why don’t you try doing this on your own? You do it for everyone else—why not for yourself?” I hesitated. Leaving a 22-year career felt impossible. But he reminded me, “You won’t let yourself fail.”

He was right. I took the leap, quit my job, and pursued balloon art full-time.

A Life-Changing Moment

One of my biggest career milestones came when I joined a group of balloon artists preparing for CBA (Certified Balloon Artist) certification. The ultimate goal was to attend The Float Convention, the largest balloon convention in the U.S., where top instructors from around the world teach their craft.

At first, I planned to wait. But with encouragement from my peers and instructor, I made a last-minute decision to go. That choice changed everything. Seeing the possibilities in balloon artistry, learning from the best, and witnessing the scale of what could be achieved reignited my passion. I returned with a new mindset: I was going to make this my future.

Building Make it Pop

Since then, my business, Make it Pop, has flourished. We’ve worked with major corporate clients like Nike and Snapchat, government officials, law enforcement, and multiple Southern California cities. I’ve been subcontracted to create balloon structures for A-list celebrity events, and I’ve had the honor of teaching for major balloon brands.

In 2024, I was part of Betallic’s sold-out BalloonAThon deco team, traveling across different states with some of the most well-known artists on both coasts. I also participated in Globo Con 2024, the largest Hispanic balloon convention in California, where I designed a 15,000-balloon mural of the legendary Celia Cruz for Jokers Party Supply. Stepping back to see my work in its full glory, I was overwhelmed with emotion. Jokers believed in me, and my artistic journey had come full circle.

Now, I tell my students and fellow artists: Never stop believing in yourself. Push your limits, and your dreams will become reality.

The Future is Bright

Incredibly, my journey has come full circle—I will be teaching at The Float 2026, the very place that opened my eyes to the limitless world of balloon art. I’m beyond grateful for my family, friends, clients, and the amazing people who have supported my path.

But I’m not stopping here. My next dream? To decorate for my beloved LA Dodgers. Or Disneyland! And if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that dreams do come true.!!

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I’m often my own harshest critic, and navigating the digital realm can feel like a formidable challenge. While many suggest that my cautious approach to social media might mean missing out on opportunities, the truth is that most of my success has come from genuine, word-of-mouth connections—even if I still struggle with the ever-evolving online landscape.

As a woman business owner, I wear countless hats—wife, mother, daughter, aunt, godmother, and friend. Balancing these roles means that sometimes work seeps into every part of my life. Attending family events, for instance, is a delicate dance: while I strive to create memories for others, I sometimes find myself postponing the chance to craft my own. Yet, each day is a reminder that my unique path, with all its challenges and triumphs, is a testament to resilience and grace.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about MakeItPop_PartyDecor?
Make It Pop is more than just a balloon decorating business—it’s an experience. We specialize in large-scale, high-impact balloon installations that bring creativity, artistry, and innovation to every event. Whether it’s a corporate activation, a city celebration, or a grand entrance tunnel, we push the boundaries of balloon décor, blending techniques like 3D structures, duplet mosaics, and textured designs with latex and foil to create immersive, unforgettable moments.

What sets us apart is our ability to merge art with storytelling. We’ve had the honor of working with major brands like Nike, Snapchat, and government agencies, as well as collaborating with cities across Southern California. Our work has been showcased at prestigious industry conventions, including The Float Convention, Betallic’s BalloonAThon, and Globo Con, where we helped design large-scale projects, such as a 15,000-balloon Celia Cruz mural.

One of the things I’m most proud of is being a leader and educator in this industry. I’ve had the privilege of teaching for major balloon brands and will be instructing at The Float 2026, sharing my expertise with fellow artists. An attending 2025 Balloon Parade in Guadalajara Mexico

But beyond the art, Make It Pop is about passion, resilience, and heart. As a woman-owned business, I wear many hats—not just as an entrepreneur but as a wife, mother, and family member. Balancing it all is a challenge, but every project we take on is rooted in love and dedication to our craft.

For those looking for something beyond the ordinary, Make It Pop offers more than balloons—we create lasting impressions. And one day, I hope to bring that same magic to my dream project: decorating for the LA Dodgers and Disneyland

Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
I actively invest in my professional growth by taking classes and subscribing to online training programs with talented balloon artists from around the world on Instagram. This commitment allows me to stay inspired, learn new techniques, and continuously elevate my craft.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Www.makeitpoppartydecor.com
• Instagram: MakeItPop_PartyDecor
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MakeItPopPartyDecor?mibextid=wwXIfr&mibextid=wwXIfr
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/makeitpop-partydecor-%F0%9F%8E%88%F0%9F%8E%88-2063aa303?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app