We had the good fortune of connecting with Melissa Torres and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Melissa, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
Risk taking is a necessary part of any business, and it is always so scary to take risks whether big or small. When I think about myself, the label “risk taker” doesn’t immediately come to mind. However, as I reflect on my life and experiences, it’s clear that risk-taking is woven into my identity. From a young age, I embraced various sports despite my lack of hand-eye coordination, entered talent competitions (often for talents I did not actually have), and seized whatever opportunities came my way. I even wrote to the Spice Girls when Ginger Spice left, letting them know if they needed a fifth member, I was their girl!

In my early twenties I took a bold step by moving to another country alone, sacrificing a stable job that could have offered early financial security. While a difficult adjustment, it was definitely a risk worth taking as it forced me out of my comfort zone and allowed me to grow as a person exponentially. The rest of my twenties included countless side hustles and hobbies in search of inspiration and creative fulfillment.

Starting my business was the biggest financial risk I’ve ever taken, but I felt certain that if it succeeded, it would bring me long-term joy. I decided to jump in head-first and invested in two shimmer walls and two flower walls. I had a safe, neutral option for each and a bold, colorful option that brought me personal happiness when I looked at it. It was interesting to see that the “riskier” options turned out to be fairly popular despite them not being neutral colors.

While trying to curate display photos, I challenged myself to learn balloon decor, which has since become my favorite aspect of the business. Posting my first balloon decor photos was absolutely terrifying. I worried that if the balloon garlands weren’t perfect, it could jeopardize my business before it even began. Nevertheless, I decided to share my work, ensuring my pricing reflected my experience. Thankfully, people appreciated what I had to offer. Over the past year, I’ve grown immensely, continually practicing new techniques and perfecting my standard garlands. Taking risks has allowed me to create a business that consistently brings me joy and allows me to express my creativity.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Everyone has their own style, and I have definitely been finding mine as I grow within my business. I started by learning the basics regarding techniques on basic structure and through trial and error, have found my “formula” and what works well for me. While not easy to learn a new skill, I have put in the time to practice at home during my free time. I have definitely run into challenges and many events call for on the spot adaptations. When I was first starting out, these curve balls would be cause for panic but over time I have learned how to navigate these hardships. I now feel more prepared to accommodate and adapt to the ever-changing circumstances that come my way like the crazy Colorado wind! As I have gotten the basics down, I have been able to explore detail work and have found a love for including extras in my garlands like florals or foils, but pearl balloon strands are my favorite and definitely feel like a personal touch.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
One of my favorite areas to take people visiting from out of town is the RiNo neighborhood. There are so many good food and drinks spots and the artwork is just beautiful. There always seems to be something going on an it is just such a fun area to bring people. I also love the mountains and often bring people to Golden as you get that mountain feel without having too long of a drive. If everyone is up for a bit longer of a drive, we will definitely head to Estes Park and grab coffee and lunch along the river.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband has been the biggest support system and consistently hypes me up and encourages me to take risks. He is the extra push I need when deciding to try something new and my biggest cheerleader regardless of whether my ideas are gold or fall flat. He is always there to help me talk through and solve issues that arise. He and my daughter consistently shower me with praise and those words of affirmation do wonders for my confidence in this artistic business.

My extended family is also a huge support with not only helping with childcare for my daughter so that I can take on new jobs, but also constantly recommend me to their friends and acquaintances. They always are there to lend a helping hand and that is absolutely invaluable.

My fellow vendor friends are also extremely supportive and often offer advice, a listening ear and always engage on social media which is huge! Savvy Sips Mobile Bar has been utilizing my balloon services since day one as we both started our businesses around the same time. Lisa and her team have been wonderful to work and grow with and I definitely want to give them their flowers.

Website: https://partyprettycolorado.com

Instagram: @partyprettycolorado

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/party.pretty.colorado/

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/party-pretty-colorado-aurora?utm_campaign=www_business_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct)

Image Credits
5280 CO Photography

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