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

Hi Chantell, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
This is 1 of my favorite questions people ask me and I love to tell my story.

While pricing decorative options for my brothers baby shower, I was amazed at the cost being so high ! At that point I decided to try decorating myself. I went online, looked at some YouTube videos and said, ” I can do this !” It was at that time I began to invest in myself and started my on business. I haven’t looked back since, I love what I do.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Honestly every inquire gets me excited. I always want to go over and above ! Make it EXTRA so that my balloons stand out from others. I think i’m usually more excited then the client. I love to double stuff all my balloons, which is creating my own colors. (2 balloons into 1). I love to color block all balloons as well as add some floral to top each design off. I think florals just make every balloon design stand out more.

It hasn”t been easy at all. I’ve been working with the Sheriff Dept for the Last 15 years so i’ve been juggling both. But I wouldn’t change anything about it. Starting my business has been 1 of the best decisions i’ve made.

Some of the lessons i’ve learned along the way is that always have great customer service, word of mouth pays off. There are so many knowledge able people in this industry so don’t be afraid to reach out for help. COLLABORATION OVER COMPETION. We can all eat together.

I’m a Black Women owing a small business just trying to “Pop & Create”. Putting a smile on everyone’s face.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Omg this is a good question. A fun day for me and my bestie would be going to our fav Thai Spa in Los Alamitos, visit our favorite Mexican food restaurant in Inglewood. End the night with a few Strawberry Margaritas with Tajin on the rim.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My Husband is my biggest supporter. I wouldn’t be able to do any of this without him. He preps all backdrops, blows balloons and even attends big Events with me. My 8 year old also helps me blow up balloons and take them down. She loves to see pics of all my Events when I come home.

Instagram: designsbychantellrenee

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSocal is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.