Today we’d like to introduce you to Ta’lor Reed.
Hi Ta’lor, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My name is Ta’lor Reed (Carey). My sister, Hunter Carey and I started this journey in July 2019 for my nephew’s third birthday (Mickey Mouse party) and then we did my cousin’s 21 birthday (outdoor movie night/spa day). Everyone loved the decorating and our party ideas, which motivated us to started the business. My sister (the baker) made these delicious liquor-infused cupcakes and they were also a hit!
We sat and thought of a name for days and came up with something very personal and fitting; T.H.E. JAMBOREE! It stands for Ta’lor & Hunter’s Extravagant Jamboree. We also like the play on Ta’lor & Hunter’s Events & Jamboree, so the name was perfect!
I remember working from home for Capital One in collections and having to call people to collect during the pandemic, even on Saturdays. It was very stressful and hard to juggle everything. I was putting customers on mute to blow up balloons with my super loud balloon pump. I was having to go on breaks to finish decorating props and even some small cakes.
Fast forward to October 2020, business was picking up and we were busy every week, which was amazing!! The only issue was that my full-time job was put on the back burner and it was very obvious that I was over it. So Capital One let me go and thank God for my amazing husband, he supported it 100%. He told me how proud he was of my dedication and hard work. He told me don’t worry about bills and just focus full time on the business, which I took advantage of.
My mother passed away in 2007 to pancreatic cancer. She was a phenomenal woman, beyond what any words could describe. She was always smiling and upbeat. Her presence made you feel invited and warm. She loved people and coming together for a time a fellowship and creating great memories with family and friends. I know if she was still here she would be so proud of the accomplishments we have made and excited for the pinnacles we have yet to reach! I know she is with us through everything and her spirit keeps me going!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Not smooth at all. Starting a business is tough and we have had serval obstacles. From the actual pandemic to people asking for outlandish discounts and work done for free. To becoming frustrated from working so hard while getting mediocre to almost no pay. In retrospect, when it comes to balloons; which are most asked for, you could say I have become a “one man band”. My sister (mother to my nephew) still does cupcakes and helps out with actual party planning services. But I am determined to keep pushing and working hard to build it all. And I can honestly say the out outcome has been really rewarding!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
We specialize in balloon decor (garlands, arches, columns, arrangements, centerpieces, sculptures, etc.), event vendor connections and cupcakes, both infused with liquor and plain. This is for birthdays, baby showers, graduations, gender reveals, grand openings, photoshoots, office parties, family events, church events, work events, literally any reason you have! The goal is to become a one-stop shop and provide everything from the location, decor, food, etc. But for now, we will come to you and create an awesome party scene, photo wall and more.
We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
Working with balloons is a risk in itself. lol. Your materials can literally just pop or float away. Balloons oxidize when outside and become ashy and dull. Me leaving my job to focus on balloons full time was probably one of the biggest risk I have ever taken. But I love a good challenge.
Contact Info:
- Email: info@thejamboreesisters.com
- Website: www.jamboreesisters.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/thejamboreeballoons?r=nametag
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thejamboreesisters/
