Today we’d like to introduce you to Jess Bernstein
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Late 2019, after over a decade of creatively and affordably decorating family celebrations with balloons, I decided to start La La Balloonza. During that year, I focused on bringing joy to children in my neighborhood by creating fun driveway balloon displays for their birthdays, during Covid when times when drive-by celebrations became the norm. Moms at Cub Scouts started to express interest in my balloons and social media started showing the new trends in balloon decorations, using no helium, going to new levels of artisanship in every kind of celebration, private and corporate.
As demand grew, I officially began offering my services, and thanks to my amazing customers—many of whom I now call friends—the business has been thriving since. Based in Elgin, Texas, La La Balloonza specializes in creating affordable, fun, and fancy balloon decor for every event, celebration, and milestone. From stunning balloon arches and walls to vibrant garlands and elegant columns, we bring the wow-factor and your vision to life.
Over the years, we’ve expanded our offerings to include unique rentals, such as a shimmering disco ball wall that serves as a captivating backdrop when paired with our vibrant balloons. We stay up-to-date with the latest balloon trends, ideas, and methods to keep our designs fresh and exciting.
Joining the Elgin Chamber of Commerce in 2022 has been a game-changer for me. Through the Chamber, I’ve been able to connect with other small business owners, share experiences, and learn from those who have been in business longer. The support from the Chamber has been invaluable, especially when it comes to marketing and promoting my balloon decor services to a wider audience.
Winning Small Business of the Year 2024 was a huge milestone. It not only validated the hard work and dedication I put into my business but also helped me gain credibility and trust among customers. Being recognized by the Chamber boosted my confidence and reinforced my passion for growing La La Balloonza. I’m also part of the Board of Directors, last year and the next two.
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?
The challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic impacted all of us, but it also provided me with the time and space to perfect my craft while bringing joy to neighborhood children during those difficult years. I was fortunate to start La La Balloonza LLC with no debt, growing the business strategically by expanding my offerings only when the budget allowed.
In the early years, I operated the business with the help of a 2010 Toyota Sienna—a vehicle with over 300,000 miles—and rented U-Hauls when necessary. Contrary to common belief, balloon professionals don’t simply show up and inflate balloons on-site. We arrive fully prepared, with all balloons pre-inflated and ready for seamless installation. Packing the small van was a challenge, but with careful planning and creativity, it worked.
By late 2024, the business had grown to a point where we could invest in our first dedicated delivery vehicle—a 2017 Ford Transit Van. This upgrade has significantly improved our efficiency, allowing us to transport larger and more elaborate installations while expanding our service offerings. With this new addition, La La Balloonza is better equipped than ever to bring bigger, bolder, and more spectacular balloon creations to our clients.
Balancing business growth with family has always been a priority for me. With teenage children still in high school, I’ve intentionally kept La La Balloonza from expanding too quickly, ensuring I could spend as much time with them as possible. However, now that they are driving and gaining more independence, I’m ready to take the business to the next level. The timing feels right to expand, take on larger projects, and explore new opportunities while continuing to bring creativity and joy to every event we serve.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialize in custom balloon decor that transforms events into unforgettable experiences. From elegant balloon garlands and arches to intricate balloon walls and unique installations, we bring creativity, fun, and a touch of magic to every celebration. Whether it’s a birthday, wedding, corporate event, grand opening, or community gathering, we design and deliver high-quality, eye-catching balloon arrangements tailored to our clients’ visions.
We are best known for our quick quotes, attention to detail, seamless installations, and innovative designs that go beyond traditional balloon decor. Our goal is to make every event feel extra special, whether it’s a grand celebration or an intimate gathering.
One of the things I’m most proud of is how La La Balloonza started and grew. I built this business from the ground up, debt-free, while balancing family life and staying true to my values. Winning Small Business of the Year from the Elgin Chamber of Commerce was a huge honor and a testament to the hard work and love poured into this company.
What sets us apart is our personalized approach, exceptional service, and commitment to our community. We don’t just deliver balloons—we deliver joy, excitement, and unforgettable moments. Plus, with our recent investment in a dedicated delivery van, we’re now able to take on even bigger and bolder projects than ever before!
Giving back to the community has always been at the heart of La La Balloonza LLC. Last year alone I proudly donated over $20,000 in balloon decor and services to local schools, churches, Relay for Life, city events, and other community initiatives.
While I can certainly create traditional balloon decor, my true passion lies in designing one-of-a-kind, breathtaking installations that push the boundaries of creativity. I love taking an idea and transforming it into something brand new, impressive, and unforgettable. Whether it’s a massive custom sculpture, an intricate themed backdrop, or a dramatic oversized installation, I thrive on bringing bold, unique visions to life. Every project is an opportunity to create something that wows guests and leaves a lasting impression—and that’s what I love most about what I do.
Any big plans?
in the future, I’d love to take La La Balloonza to the next level by operating out of a venue in downtown Elgin, where I can collaborate with close friends to offer a full-service celebration experience. The vision is to provide not just stunning balloon decor, but the whole package—a one-stop destination for unforgettable events. Creating a space where clients can walk in with a vision and leave with a fully planned, beautifully decorated event is something I’m truly excited about!
We would also like to expand into more work in Austin and nearby communites serving all of Central Texas
Pricing:
- $400-$5K
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.lalaballoonza.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/la_la_balloonza/profilecard/?igsh=MXI5Y3IwaWVoOGdh
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BJkpdzrZE/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Image Credits
my pictures 🙂
