Meet Noeli Remiro, the artist and balloon instructor behind the business So Pretty Balloons! Read more to learn about how she built a career in the ballooning industry and the Pro Tapes® products that helped her along the way.
Follow Noeli Remiro Online!
- Instagram: @soprettyballoons
Tell us a bit about yourself! How did you get into the balloon business?
I’m a crafty and creative person who fell in love with balloon art! I started decorating for family and friends, then learned some basic techniques on YouTube and some in-person classes. In 2009, my husband and I decided to initiate a party rental business, but it became too much with our full-time jobs and family commitments. After almost three years we sold the business, but I continued decorating for loved ones. I honestly couldn’t get rid of the balloons!
Eventually, I took a 3-day class in 2018. I initially didn’t want to take this class. Since I was no longer in the business, I thought I didn’t need it. After my friend persisted, I ended up going. Guess what? I didn’t want to leave the place; I didn’t want the classes to end! I was amazed by all the balloon art that was out there.
This led me to start So Pretty Balloons, a balloon bouquet business alongside my full-time job. In 2019, I decided to pursue my passion for balloon decorations full-time as an entrepreneur! After getting enough experience and strengthening my abilities in the balloon world I decided to teach, educating other people who want to become Balloon Artists. Now I’m a proud Balloon Instructor, as well.
What inspires your balloon artwork? What is your favorite type of balloon décor to design for parties or events?
My balloon artwork is inspired by the joy and wonder of creating something beautiful and unique that brings happiness to others. I find inspiration in various sources such as nature, art, fashion, and from some very talented colleagues. I love experimenting with different balloon sizes, shapes, colors, and textures to create intricate designs and patterns, especially flowers.
My favorite type of balloon décor to design for parties or events is definitely balloon arches, garlands, and columns! There’s something majestic about creating a grand entrance that sets the tone for a celebration. I also enjoy designing custom balloon bouquets that reflect the theme or personality of the person receiving them. Whether it’s a vibrant and playful design for a child’s birthday or a sleek and elegant arrangement for corporate or other events, I love the challenge of bringing a client’s vision to life with balloons!
How do you push the boundaries of traditional balloon art? What first sparked this idea to explore these new avenues for balloon artistry?
To push the boundaries of traditional balloon art, I’m always willing to learn and experiment with new techniques, materials, and ideas, often drawing inspiration from other art forms like sculpture, painting, and of course from other balloon artists.
The spark that ignited my desire to explore new avenues in balloon artistry was seeing the work of other artists who were already pushing the boundaries of the medium. I was inspired by their creativity and innovation, and I wanted to contribute my own unique style to the balloon world as well.
We see you’re based in Miami! Does your location influence the types of balloon designs you create or the types of events you cater to?
Yes, being based in Miami definitely influences my balloon designs and events! The city’s vibrant culture, tropical climate, and diverse community inspire me to create bold, colorful, and playful art. We have excellent balloon artists in Miami. Therefore, it’s very important to be different from others by having a unique style.
What is your favorite aspect of working in the world of balloons?
My favorite aspect of working with balloons is the joy it brings to people’s faces! I love creating magical designs and installations that transform spaces and make people smile. It’s a privilege to be part of special moments and celebrations, and to see the happiness and excitement that balloons bring!
How did you discover Pro Tapes tape products and/or UGlu®?
I attended a ballooning class where they were using UGlu Dashes to add details to projects. It caught my attention because of how easy it was to work with. I immediately started doing research about it and discovered the UGlu 900 Contactor Pack which is my favorite: what a game-changer! Everything became easier and easier for me. Then I started to use the Pro J-Lar II, Pro Duct, and Pro Gaff for my projects, as well.
How does UGlu enhance your work as a balloon artist? What do you like most about it?
UGlu is a game-changer for me as a balloon artist! It enhances my work in several ways:
- Stronger bonds. UGlu creates an incredibly strong and durable bond between balloons, allowing me to create more complex and intricate designs without worrying about them popping or falling apart.
- Increased creativity. UGlu gives me the freedom to experiment with new designs and techniques, knowing that my creations will hold up and look amazing, especially my backdrops and distortion/modeling flowers.
What I like most about UGlu is its versatility and reliability, and it’s super easy to use on the balloons and balloon’s projects. UGlu products are definitely must-have products in my tools bag. I’m always surprised when something to fix or to add comes up because there I come, with a certain UGlu adhesive to apply on it and then, it’s solved!
What advice would you share with someone who is just getting started in the balloon business?
If you’re just starting out in the balloon business, here’s my advice:
- Educate yourself and make sure you like balloons, hands-on balloons.
- Practice, practice, practice; mastering balloon art takes time and patience.
- Learn from others. Follow experienced balloon artists, attend workshops, and learn from their techniques and experiences.
- Invest in quality balloons. Use high-quality balloons that are less likely to pop or burst easily. There are plenty of good brands out there to learn with.
- Important: Be creative and innovative. Don’t be afraid to try new designs and ideas. Stay up-to-date with trends and themes.
- Provide excellent customer service. Build strong relationships with clients and go above and beyond to exceed their expectations.
- Last but not least, Believe in Yourself. It’s not an easy journey, but it’s not impossible.
Please, don’t forget to use UGlu Dashes in your projects. Trust me, once you try UGlu, you’ll never go back!
