Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Rye Von. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Rye, first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
Overcoming imposter syndrome continues to be a daily journey. When I started in the balloon industry, I would see pictures of beautiful balloon installations and amazing structures online. I remember wondering if I would ever be as talented as those artists. At the time it seemed unattainable and for a while, I believed it wasn’t. I continued to learn what I could about my industry and newfound craft gaining confidence as the months progressed. I attended every balloon convention, training, workshop and certification course I could get my hands on. Months turned to years, and I finally landed my first major contract. I was so nervous, partially because imposter syndrome had convinced me I was not talented enough to excel in the position, and also because it was my largest order to date. Once the event was over, I felt invincible. Now, when imposter syndrome tries to creep in I remind myself that there once was a time I believed I couldn’t, yet I did, therefore I am capable.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
Art Haus Balloon Company is my biggest labor of love, opening a little over 3 years ago in Indianapolis IN. We are known around the globe for our hyper-realistic balloon art. In the beginning stages of my company things were difficult. Through a lot of pivoting, learning, and time I have managed to grow my business into a 6-figure company since its inception.
The thing I find most exciting about balloon art is using a medium most people only think of as a party staple and turning it into genuine works of art. Art Haus Balloon Company specializes in realistic balloon decor installations. I take the guesswork out of planning an event and provide top-of-the-line balloon displays nationwide. My favorite thing is turning something from a client’s imagination into a tangible item they can see crafted out of balloons. I am the person you would call when you want a Batmobile or 20ft RV made completely out of balloons.
Philanthropy is a major pillar within my company. Over the past year, I have helped raise $445,000 for charitable organizations around the nation. I am very excited to announce my newest exhibit, Paradise, which will convert 2700 sq. ft into a fully immersive balloon wonderland utilizing over 10,000 balloons during the NBA 2024 All-Star Weekend. This project will donate a portion of each ticket sale to a mental health nonprofit in the Indianapolis area. Over the past year, I have helped raise $445,000 for charitable organizations around the nation. This unique event will run February 16th-18th inside Circle Center Mall kicking off Friday with our private art show and ending Sunday with our free family hour.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
My top 3 qualities for success are persistence, commitment, and a strong work ethic. In entrepreneurship, we have to stay persistent even when we’ve heard “NO” repeatedly. We must be committed to our vision even when we are the only ones who can visualize it.
My first piece of advice would be to never let the naysayers persuade your next move, it’s easy for those who are not in business to give their opinions on how a small business should run, however, if they knew how to run a business, they would be an owner. All advice is not good advice, nor should it dictate how your business will flow.
My second piece of advice is to learn how to love the ebbs and flows of business, one month may be slow and the next you will have so much work you will need to hire help. As entrepreneurs, it is very easy to get frustrated when you’re putting forth 100% effort and it feels like you’re not seeing progress. This is natural. Instead of focusing on what you’re lacking, focus on new strategies, marketing tactics, collaborations, and events you can utilize to stimulate business.
My final piece of advice is to never give up. Trust me when I say there have been many times throughout my journey where I have “quit” and did, for a while but when something is your passion you can never leave it too long. If you need a break, take a break, but never give up.
Is there a particular challenge you are currently facing?
My number one challenge right now is reliable commercial transportation. When I began my business, I was utilizing U-Haul and Enterprise rentals which served me well, however, I have now hit a stage where my business needs to own its van. As a result, I have started a crowdfunding campaign using GoFundMe to raise funds. I have raised $2300 out of my $5000 goal. I have also been pitching my business in various pitch contests to spread awareness and submitted applications for various grants geared toward the procurement of commercial vehicles. Should all else fail, I will continue to save a portion of each sale until I meet my goal.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.arthausballooncompany.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/arthausballooncompanyllc
- Facebook: facebook.com/arthausballooncompany
- Linkedin: Rye Von
