OCALA, FL (352today.com) – We’ve all seen the inflatable Santa Claus and Frosty the Snowman decorations that dot the landscape this time of year.
But we’re willing to bet you haven’t seen inflated decorations like the ones adorning an Ocala woman’s house.
The creative mind behind this twist on Christmas decor is Denise Myford, the owner of Red Dog Balloons. She’s been a professional balloon twister for more than 15 years, providing her services for everything from private parties to corporate events.
“I love what I do. In a very dark, chaotic world, I can lift the spirits and bring joy to people, young and old, with the gift God has given me to share with others,” said Myford. ” I give God all the glory.”
The idea behind the balloon bonanza came after meeting two-time Food Network competitor Bev Hansen of Bev’s Custom Bakery in Ocala. “We collaborated to stuff a balloon with some of Bev’s holiday cookies,” said Myford.
That evolved into the inspiration to fill her home with an abundance of balloons engineered into a fresh take on traditional holiday decorations.
And, well, from there (forgive the pun) the idea ‘blew up.’
“The mission was simply to lift people’s spirits and bring smiles to a hurting world,” said Myford. “Balloons fill a space with cheer and merriment!”
She invited other creative spirits she met through Marion County’s Bold Ladies in Business networking group to collaborate on the decorating project.
In addition to Bev Hansen, Myford’s other decorating partners included:
- Alecia Randolph – Mary Kay Consultant
- Crystal Srsich – Window Artist
- Julie Duncan – Balloon Artist
- Julie Bartoli – Event Photographer
You can see from the photos the group achieved an array of balloon-based decorations ranging from whimsical to reflecting the reason for the season.
It may not be for everyone. But it seems this might make an especially good solution for anyone who doesn’t have room to store boxes and boxes of Christmas ornaments.
