Today we’d like to introduce you to Kendal Huggins
Hi Kendal, 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?
I am a creative soul and always loved working with people. I have a bachelor’s degree in Fashion Merchandising from Oklahomas State University and worked as a merchandiser and content creator for several years. However, as soon as I had my daughter I knew I wanted to be a stay at home mom. After about a year and a half, I was itching to do something that allowed me to work with people, be creative, and still be home with my daughter. Being able to bring in a little extra money for my family would also be extremely helpful. I prayed a lot for guidance and clarity on what this job might be. One day I was looking on Facebook Marketplace and came across a candy cart for sale from a candy shop that was closing in the area. My daughter’s birthday was that month, and I thought, how cute would that be to put desserts on! My next thought was, how am I going to convince my husband we should buy this candy cart? Haha. Just like that it all clicked. I was going to start a business renting out the candy cart! I’m not sure he totally believed I would do, but 2 years later and here we are! It started off with just renting out the candy cart and helping people decorate it, to becoming a balloon artist, to making custom backdrops and even floral arrangements. It has truly brought me so much joy! I get to challenge myself creatively, help celebrate and make lasting memories for other people, and work with my both my little girls and husband. Hearing my daughter say, “Wow Mommy you made that? That looks so good” makes my heart so happy, and seeing my customers faces light up when I’m done setting up is so rewarding. I always get a rush of adrenaline after a setup! I feel extremely blessed to be doing something I love and with my family.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t gone without some struggles. My husband has worked the night shift up until a month ago, so that made making backdrops difficult. By the time he would wake up, he either had to go straight to work or only had a few hours of daylight to build something. However, that Encouraged me to learn and become more handy with the tools myself. With money being already tight, I think my husband thought I would start a business and immediately start raking in the cash. Since that was not the case, we had a lot of discussions on whether this was something I should continue to pursue. I saw the potential and I knew my capabilities. I didn’t let doubt stop me. If anything, it put a fire under my butt to keep going, keep growing, and push myself out of my comfort zone. I just recently did my largest setup yet at Grapevine Mills Mall, and I’m still on a high from that setup! I felt like wow, I’m doing it! I’m really doing it!
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I create beautiful backdrops for events that include custom cutout backdrops, balloons, signage, floral arrangements etc.
I specialize in taking an idea and creating something beautiful and unique.
I’m known for my attention to detail, attentiveness, bubbly personality, and honesty my two beautiful daughters who come to most of my setups!
What sets me apart is making something special no matter what your budget is. Everyone deserves to feel special and celebrated, so if I can help accomplish that, I will! My motto is “A party big or small, let’s celebrate them all!”
I’m most proud of myself. Having the passion and determination to keep going, juggling mom life and a business, and even being pregnant/ having a new baby while still growing my business.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
My advice is to not overthink it. Especially if you’re a perfectionist like me, don’t feel like you have to know all the answers or have it all figured out before you start. Just go for it! You will learn along the way and just trust in the process.
Don’t compare yourself to others. If you love what you’re doing and keep practicing, you will get better and more efficient with your craft.
I wish I had joined more balloon artist groups on Facebook when I was starting out. I feel like they share so many tips, tricks, and just sharing experiences within the group. I also wish I had joined the Mom’s in Business group so much sooner. I’m so grateful for the friend that told me about them. They have monthly meetups, and I have met and networked with so many amazing women who all support and encourage each other. You have to have the courage to walk into an environment where you may not know a single person and say a few words about yourself and business, but it will always be worth it! Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kendy_cart_rentals?igsh=dTVreTlvOGRidGIy&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kendy.cart.rentals?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Image Credits
All my personal photos
