Today we’d like to introduce you to Gabriela Vallejo.
Hi Gabriela, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
It was during COVID, everything was shut down and everyone was home. I was a full time student at the University of Texas in Arlington and my classes were online. I was always known as a creative person and I wanted to know how to portray that. After a bit of research I decided to invest the little money I had into a Cricut Maker cutting machine. As far as the business name, it took a while but I also wanting to emphasize that I’m creating or recreating products. While in college I joined a sorority (ΚΔΧ) and when you officially initiate (aka “cross over” to other organizations), you are given a Greek name. Mines was Zeleen, it was unique and all my sxsters knew me as just that, so I decided to clash my name and any word relating to creations and that is how Zeleen Creates was set as the business name.
I started with creating custom song plaques that took off in sales, but then I took a long break as I began working full time in my career and I was a lash technician lashing clients back to back. After a year or so, I was thinking about ideas on how to expand my portfolio and invest more of my time. Slowly but surely, I now have over 10+ orders to do for the month of May when back then it would be 1 order every few months.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Not at all, like previously mentioned, I took a very long break and would only post on social media every couple months. I only had exposure to friends and some family. Most of my listings and post on social media have been for close family and friends or for my own party needs. It’s difficult, I will be honest to build clientele, but I am not a person that gives up easily and thanks to God and my support system, my clientele and social media following has finally grown.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I wouldn’t say I specialize in just one thing when it comes to my business. I’m a very crafty and creative person, and I take pride in being able to recreate almost anything my clients envision. My work goes beyond one specific service—it’s about bringing ideas to life in a way that feels personal and meaningful.
In my 9–5, I assist the public daily, and it’s something I genuinely enjoy. I carry that same level of care, patience, and support into my business with every client I work with. Whether it’s grad caps, ribbon leis, or full balloon and backdrop setups for birthdays, baby showers, and other milestones, I love being part of those special moments.
What sets me apart is my transparency and customer-focused approach. I don’t just provide quotes—I break down pricing, especially for balloon setups, so clients fully understand what they’re paying for. I believe in putting myself in my clients’ shoes, and if roles were reversed, I’d want that same honesty and transparency.
I also provide mock-ups so my clients can actually see the vision before it comes to life. That way, they feel confident, involved, and excited throughout the process.
What I’m most proud of is being able to turn someone’s idea into something real while making the experience smooth, clear, and enjoyable from start to finish.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
The best way to work with me is by reaching out directly to book or bring your vision to life—I’m always open to creating something unique for my clients. I also love collaborating with other small businesses, so if you’re looking to partner on something creative, I’m definitely open to that.
Support doesn’t always have to be big—social media is so powerful nowadays. A simple follow, repost, or shoutout goes a long way and is always appreciated since it helps my work reach more people.
I’m also working toward being part of local markets in the DFW area later this year, so that’ll be another way to connect, support, and see my work in person.
Pricing:
- Balloon Garland Setups $200+
- Custom Graduation Caps $60+
- Ribbon/Money Lei’s (Toddlers $15+) (Adults $30+)
- Custom Chip Bags $10 per 1/2 dozen
- Custom Hand Painted Banner $45+
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zeleencreates/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zeleencreates/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@zeleencreates
