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

Hi Sheronda, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I always thought I would never own a business, and I wouldn’t want the burden of building something from scratch, but God laughs at the plans you have for yourself. I went to a baby shower with my child and saw the joy that the balloons brought her, plus the fact she didn’t want to leave with out getting a balloon. So I thought to myself “I can do that, and better too”. So the idea was born to be an event balloon decorator and a great one!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
The Balloon Industry has grown a lot especially during the pandemic. Balloon Stylist come in all different forms, but what sets me apart from any other Balloon Stylist is my attention to detail and the passion and dedication I put into every install. I have an eye for what looks appeasing versus what looks like it was DIY (Do It Yourself). As a professional I want my decorations to look expensive and luxurious, but I also want to be affordable as this industry as well as all event industry businesses can be pricey.

What I’m most proud of is I started a year ago and through the busy season and slow season I have not given up, I’ve only gone harder for Elegant Scenery.

What I’m most proud of is the future of Elegant Scenery. I have new backdrops that I’m about to launch and the holiday season is always busy in the event industry.

How I got to where I am today professionally is being consistent and trying to elevate with every install that I do. Remaining a student and always talking about my business with any and everyone who speaks to me.

Was it easy? Not at all, there were nights I prayed to God wondering why he would want me to own a business, and make my life so uncomfortable? But thankful that I was able to bring in additional income for my family and still be able to serve my clients while doing something I absolutely love.

Along the way I have learned that I have to say “No”, which it is very hard to say no to money sometimes, but if the vibe isn’t right or the clients budget doesn’t match what they are asking for, I don’t want to disappoint. I’ve also learned that you can’t do this just as a solo person, you have to have a mentor, someone you look up to and can vibe or talk with, and a community of others in the event business to discuss growth and trials and tribulations.

What I want the world to know about Elegant Scenery is that I plan to become a full service event decorating business one day, that offers more than just balloons. I plan to offer more Elegant event decorations, florals, rental items, and one day have my own venue space. So ultimately that we will grow because the sky is the limit.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Well I would take them to some of the great hiking places in Austin like Mt. Bonnell, Bull Creek Trail, or to the Green Belt. We would have to rent a boat and go to Devil’s cove if the weather permits. Eat at some places like Umi Sushi, Yall’s Cafe, and Palatable Nigerian Cuisine. If we were wanting to have some drinks, something like Punch Bowl Social where we can have fun and bowl or karaoke, or having a fun game night with my 3 bestfriends (Star Quality Clique) and our partners. We would have to finish out the week either attending My great church Abundant Life Church in person or virtual.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to shoutout God because with out him giving me the vision, my actions would be null. My Husband and Daughter for always pumping me up and assisting when I need them to. My favorite event Coordinator and planner Brittany Merida for keeping me booked, she was one of the 1st clients to believe in me. Lastly my clients for trusting me, my visions, and my capability to deliver what they ask for.

Website: www.ElegantScenery.com

Instagram: @Elegant_Scenery_

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ElegantScenery/

Other: TikTok- @Elegant_Scenery_ Google- https://goo.gl/maps/r1e6c4CbTGrTwGaT9

Image Credits
All photos are my own.

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