Meet Allie Garner | Lead balloon stylist & Owner

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

Hi Allie, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
It really all started when my first son turned one and my sister graduated from high school—two milestones that meant so much to me. Around that time, balloon décor was just starting to trend, but no one in my area was offering it yet. I created a balloon wall for my best friend’s daughter’s first birthday, and that was the moment something clicked. I fell in love with the creative process and the way it instantly brought joy to people, and I knew I wanted to dive in headfirst.

Before this, I had owned a videography business, but I never fully committed to growing it. With balloons, it felt different—I knew this was my chance to build something special, and I wanted to give it everything I had. From day one, I was intentional about every detail: my branding, my social media, my marketing, and, most importantly, the customer experience.

Over five years later, I couldn’t be more proud of how far this business has come. With the help of Scallops Design, I was able to give my brand a beautiful refresh that truly reflects who we are today. I’m grateful not only for the company I’ve built but also for the amazing community that has grown with it.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What sets me apart is the heart and intention I put behind every single detail. For me, balloons aren’t just décor—they’re a way to create moments that people will never forget. I’m most proud that this business started from something so personal—my son’s first birthday—and has grown into a career where I get to make people feel celebrated every single day. That’s what excites me most: turning someone’s milestone into a memory that lasts.

Getting to where I am today was definitely not easy. Leaving the comfort of a full-time job to chase something creative was a huge leap of faith. There were challenges—late nights, self-doubt, and plenty of trial and error—but I overcame them with persistence, the support of my family and friends, and the encouragement of my balloon community. Each challenge became a lesson, reminding me that growth comes when you’re willing to step out of your comfort zone.

Along the way, I’ve learned to trust the process, to value partnerships, and to lean into my creativity without fear. I’ve also learned the importance of community—both the clients who trust me with their celebrations and the fellow balloon artists and vendors who’ve supported me along the way.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that it’s built on love. Love for my family who inspired me to start, love for the creative process, and love for the people who let me be part of their most important moments. My story is one of faith, creativity, and resilience, and I hope it inspires others to chase the dreams that light them up inside.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Day 1: Welcome Vibes
We’d start the week with a fresh bouquet from JL Designs to set the tone, then grab coffee at The Coffee Camper or even Starbucks—I’m a sucker for a good shaken espresso. Something about a fresh floral arrangement and a good coffee just says, Let’s do this. Then we would end the day with a pilates class at j & j studio with Julia.

Day 2: Eat & Explore
Brunch is a must, so we’d head to La Gabrielle’s for crepes or one of the best Southern breakfasts in town. Then we’d explore downtown Monroe, shopping our way through spots like Willfully Guided Co, The Armory, The Story Shop, and Southern Roots. We’d end the day with dinner at The Brown Fig, which has such a cozy, elevated vibe.

Day 3: Girls Day Out
Time to unwind! We’d treat ourselves to a spa day at Thrive Wellness Spa or a fresh set at Buffed Nail Bar, followed by tacos at Los 3 Amigos. That evening, we’d head to The Roe for cocktails on the patio—it’s the perfect spot for great drinks and even better conversations.

Day 4: Day Trip Adventure
Midweek is ideal for a little city escape. We’d take a quick trip into Athens or Atlanta—shop a bit, maybe brunch at The Garden Room, explore Ponce City Market, and watch the sunset from a rooftop before heading back home.

Day 5: Chill & Chat
This would be our slow-down day. Coffee on the porch, thrifting or antique hunting, and of course a sweet treat from Scoops Monroe (because no trip is complete without ice cream). We’d wrap the day with wine, pizza, and a cozy movie night.

Day 6: Support Local
We’d hit up a local farmers market or vendor pop-up (there’s always something happening on Saturday in downtown ), and maybe plan a styled photo shoot or cute picnic with one of my balloon installs—because why not make some magic? For dinner, it’d be a toss-up between LR Burger or Amicis.

Day 7: Sunday Reset
We’d brunch again (obviously!), then take a walk through a local art market or plant shop, soaking in that last bit of Southern sunshine before I send her home feeling refreshed, inspired, and hopefully a little in love with Monroe.

There’s something about small towns that makes even the simplest moments feel special—and that’s exactly what I’d want her to take back home with her.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I wouldn’t be where I am today without my family. My husband has been my rock from the very beginning—he encouraged me to take that scary leap of leaving my full-time job and has supported me through every late night and busy weekend. My parents and siblings have cheered me on since day one, and I’m so grateful for the love they’ve poured into me and this business.

To all of my friends—thank you for letting me be creative and add balloons to your parties in those early days. Your trust gave me the practice, confidence, and encouragement I needed to grow into what this business is today.

I also want to give a huge thank-you to the balloon friends I’ve made along the way. If I’ve learned anything in this process, it’s that partnership and support from other balloon artists is key. I truly value the connections I’ve made with my balloon besties and the vendors I’ve partnered with—this community has lifted me up and taught me so much.

And last but never least—my clients and community. You are the reason I get to do what I love every single day. Every referral, every kind word, every booking has meant the world to me. This isn’t just my business—it’s something we’ve built together, and I’ll always be grateful for that.

Website: https://Www.inflatedesigns.com

Instagram: Inflate.designs

Facebook: Inflate Deisgns

Image Credits
Sydneybishop.photo sydneybishopphoto.com