Felicia Hardesty developed an entrepreneurial spirit during the pandemic, using downtime to brainstorm possibilities. Through a series of events, she decided on Up Up & Away and began offering custom balloon decor and party rentals.
“Up Up & Away was a fantasy idea I had when my son was younger,” Hardesty said. “When he was diagnosed with autism, everything was put on the back burner so I could find ways to support him on his journey.”
Those efforts led Hardesty to Dream Riders of Kentucky, where her son began enjoying equine riding classes, and she began volunteering. She created some balloon art for the nonprofit; the rest is history.
“I made some balloon art and got some really great feedback,” she said. “In return, I realized how much my son enjoyed watching and helping make the balloon creations come to life. I was finally able to make the business a reality last June, and we’ve been growing ever since.”
Hardesty offers everything from silly balloon people and basic decor to art installations, dynamic backdrops, and a bubble balloon dome that consumes an entire wall. She recently expanded to offer twisting services and concession rentals, such as shaved ice machines, cotton candy machines, and popcorn carts. She’s also added an assortment of inflatable rental options.
“Owensboro is a great market for creative and diverse businesses,” Hardesty said. “Everyone has been amazingly supportive. I can even officiate weddings tailored to a couple’s ideal ceremony as well as providing the balloon decor for their memorable day.”
You can catch Hardesty and Up Up & Away in action at BBQ & Barrels, where she will offer Mother’s Day balloon bouquets and twisting.
To learn more about Up Up & Away or to request Hardesty’s services for an event, email [email protected]. More information is also available online at upupandawayballooncreations.com.
The Chamber Member of the Week program is a Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce membership benefit. Founded in 1913, the Chamber has worked to provide valuable benefits and services to member businesses and individuals for over a century.
Today, with a membership base of nearly 1,000, the Chamber is a guiding force in community and business development initiatives and serves as the center of business advocacy for the Greater Owensboro region.
To learn more about becoming the Chamber Member of the Week or inquire about Chamber membership, contact Shelly Nichols, Chamber Vice President, at 270-926-1860 or [email protected].