Today we’d like to introduce you to Julie Stiles.
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?
One of my good friends was getting married, and her bridal shower preparation had begun. The party planners showed me a picture of a photo backdrop off Instagram and asked if I could create something similar since I am “the crafty friend.” After watching a few how-to videos from a quick online search, I created my first balloon display! It all came to me naturally, and I knew this could be a great side hustle for me. I posted about it on my Instagram, and boom, next party booked! Then that just kept happening 100+ times. I started creating balloon displays for friends’ parties, then word of mouth took over & my hobby turned into something more. Everyone I’ve worked with has asked for something different & challenged me to push my creative & physical boundaries. I’ve loved every single second from planning to setting up to the super-stressful last hour before times up! This all started from a New Year’s Resolution to start doing more creative things with the intention to bring more happiness into my life & it’s done just that!
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?
There have been plenty of errors & mistakes made along the way, but you just have to figure it out one by one! If there’s a problem, I’m skipping the panic stage & immediately searching for a solution. After a few events, I started bringing my “bag of tricks” that holds tape, scissors, zip ties, fishing wire, you name it. It’s going to work out because there’s no other option!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I spend my work week managing the Operations of a Boutique-Sized, privately owned Pilates Studio. In my free time, I book as many side jobs as I can. If I am in town, I am saying yes to the opportunity! I would say I’m known for this creativity skill/“talent” & bringing a positive attitude. What sets me apart from others- if you’re planning something last minute (or with plenty of notice) I got you. We can have a plan & everything ordered within as few as 2/3 days. I’m most proud of that Shocked Smile as soon as they see the finished display. There is nothing better than taking that stress off of someone and knocking it out of the park for them!
What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I was pretty introverted and loved to play by myself. My older sister & I are 6 years apart, so I spent a lot of time entertaining myself. Building blocks, Barbies, Drawing, & Dress Up were the top Time Consumers. Looking back, this is very reflective on me liking to work solo & the love for expressing my creative side.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @_prettyproductions
