I think we can all agree that tassel garlands make any party better. Whether tied to a giant balloon, or strung on a wall, garlands make any Instapic instantly cuter. When we shot the FW15 cuteheads Cotton Candy collection last year, I knew we wanted to be outside, but still bright and colorful to match the collection. I immediately thought of shop owner Bri, who owns Glam Fete, a one-stop shop for all things party decor.

Bri makes the most beautiful tassel garlands (among many things!) and her pink, mint and gold garland brought our photoshoot to life. From that point on, I knew there was no one better out there making beautiful party decor. She’s professional, creative, talented, and one amazing mama to 4 little babes.

Full-time mama and full-time shop owner… I know from experience this is no easy task.

I was excited to chat with Bri, because I know so many women out there do SO many things, and I love talking to moms who are also busy business owners trying to balance it all. Her interview is inspiring, and affirmed to me that it’s hard, but it’s doable with the right attitude. Her interview is full of amazing tidbits that will inspire you.

Read on to get to know Glam Fete and its awesome owner, Bri.

Small Business Spotlight: Bri of Glam Fete

Glad to chat with you! First, tell us where we can find you online.

My name is Bri. My business is Glam Fete. You can find my shop on Etsy, and my social media pages on Instagram (@glamfete) and Facebook.

What inspired you to start your own business?

Crafting and DIY has always been a part of my DNA. I used to help my mom decorate for family events by holding one end of the party streamers for her while she twisted them together from the other end to create these colorful and beautiful pieces. This is most likely where my love for crafting with tissue paper came from! And also my love for party styling.

What inspires your work and what sets you apart from everyone else?

I just love following party blogs like Karas Party Ideas, Little Big Company, TomKat Studio and more! They are so inspiring when it comes to seeing what’s tending in party design and styling and they inspire me to create handmade items, ready to sell for mamas and stylists out there who want to create the perfect party set up.

What is your background and how did you develop the skills to start your business?

My background is in Marketing. Within that field, my experience ranges from Public Relations, Social Media and Customer Acquisition.

What has been your biggest success to date?

I think everyday is a success for me. When I look at what my “wins” are, I would have to say it’s being home with my 4 babes and doing what I love–creating party supplies. When I ship an order it reminds me that little pieces of my heart are scattered all around the world. My customers keep me so motivated!

What has been your biggest challenge?

I think that sometimes I am my biggest critic. When sales fluctuate, I have to remind myself to keep faith and keep pushing.

Describe your typical work day.

I try to make work as fun as possible. Sometimes there’s days when an iced coffee and Pandora just completely sets the mood and makes the day more productive. I’m really big on energy and when the environment is calm I am way more creative and inspired. I do have my sister helping me, but I am looking to expand to hiring soon!

Which small businesses are you inspired by?

I think most small shop mamas will agree that Freshly Picked is inspiring. She’s come from making orders at her dining room table ( like me!) to a million dollar business with a Shark Tank investor. Can we say #goals?

If you could go back to the beginning knowing what you know now, what would you have done differently?

I don’t think I would change anything. I’ve been up and down on a roller coaster of emotion with this baby ( Glam Fete is my 5th baby-by the way) and I’ve learned from each and every experience. I’m still growing and learning from this and I love it!

What’s your best advice for someone who wants to start her own creative business?

Be consistent and find your passion. I onced asked Melissa Johnson of Best Friends for Frosting how her blog become so successful. Her advice to me was “Do what you absolutely love” She told me how she used to bake with her mom when she was little and her blog is a about baking, pastries and party styling.

Helping my mom set up twisted party streamers and these elaborate streamer canopies with balloon chandeliers (way back in the 80’s) was something I enjoyed doing with my mom! Party styling and making party decor is my passion and I am so grateful to have found it.

Read more about Jess and follow her journey at Glam Fete. Follow her on Glam Fete. 

Tell us YOUR small business success story for a chance to be featured in the small business spotlight! For a chance to be featured in one of our small business posts, email info {at} cuteheads [dot] com & tell us about your business.