When you think of Eastenders, balloons might not be the first thing that comes to mind. Yet, for Natalie Saunders, a Stevenage-based balloon artist from The Balloon Room, her skills have propelled her to national fame. She recently created the balloon decorations for the “Lolafest” episode, a celebration of life for the character Lola. Let’s dive into her story and see how her passion for balloons has made her a star in her own right.
A Balloon Artist’s Big Break
Natalie Saunders has been working with balloons for over two decades. Her journey into the limelight came when the art director of Eastenders reached out to her for the “Lolafest” episode. Natalie was thrilled at the opportunity. “I was asked by the art director of Eastenders to provide the balloon decorations for the episode ‘Lolafest’, the celebration of life for the character Lola,” she shared. This opportunity wasn’t just another job; it was a chance to showcase her talent on one of the UK’s most beloved TV shows.
On Set with Eastenders
Imagine walking onto the set of a popular TV show, surrounded by famous characters you’ve watched for years. For Natalie, this became a reality. “It was really exciting being on set watching all the well-known characters in real life. They were so lovely and chatty,” she said. This behind-the-scenes glimpse was a dream come true for Natalie, giving her a taste of the entertainment industry from a unique perspective.
When the episode aired, Natalie’s excitement was palpable. “I was so chuffed when the episode went out. My balloons were seen nationally!” she exclaimed. The colourful and creative balloon decorations added a festive touch to the episode, capturing the essence of the celebration. Seeing her work on national television was a proud moment for Natalie, one that she’ll cherish forever.
An International Career
Natalie’s talents aren’t confined to the UK. In fact, her expertise has taken her across the globe. “I also did the balloons for the national Norwegian lottery commercial filmed in London,” she mentioned. This is just one example of her international reach. Companies from all over seek her skills to bring their events to life with her stunning balloon designs.
One of the most exciting projects Natalie worked on was a commercial for Party City, the largest party store chain in the USA. “A few years ago me and my team were flown to Cape Town, South Africa to provide the balloons for a commercial just about balloons from Party City,” she recalled. This project was not only fun but also a testament to her reputation in the balloon industry. Her ability to deliver creative and impressive balloon installations has made her a sought-after artist worldwide.
From Small Orders to Gigantic Installations
What sets Natalie apart is her versatility. She takes on everything from small balloon orders to massive international installations. “I love that I provide everything from small balloon orders all the way up to gigantic international installations. I love my job!” she enthused. This passion is evident in every project she undertakes.
Whether it’s a birthday party, a corporate event, or a television commercial, Natalie’s balloons always add a touch of magic. Her creativity knows no bounds, and her dedication to her craft shines through in each of her unique designs.
Finding Success Online
In today’s digital age, having an online presence is crucial. For Natalie, this has been a key factor in her success. “They found me online,” she said, referring to the Eastenders gig. Her website, The Balloon Room, showcases her extensive portfolio and the wide range of services she offers. It’s a one-stop-shop for anyone looking to add some flair to their event with beautiful balloon decorations.
Natalie’s online presence not only helps her attract new clients but also allows her to share her passion with a wider audience. Through her website and social media channels, she showcases her latest creations and shares behind-the-scenes glimpses of her work. This not only builds her brand but also inspires others who might want to pursue a career in balloon artistry.
The Joy of Balloon Artistry
For Natalie, balloon artistry is more than just a job. It’s a passion that brings joy to both her and her clients. The excitement of seeing a client’s reaction when they see their event space transformed with stunning balloon decorations is what drives her. Each project is an opportunity to create something beautiful and memorable.
The world of balloon artistry is ever-evolving, with new techniques and trends emerging all the time. Natalie loves staying up-to-date with the latest developments in the industry, constantly learning and innovating. This commitment to her craft ensures that her work remains fresh and exciting.
A Role Model in the Industry
Natalie’s journey is inspiring for many aspiring balloon artists. Her success story shows that with dedication, creativity, and a strong online presence, it’s possible to turn a passion into a thriving career. She is a role model for anyone looking to break into the industry, demonstrating that hard work and a love for what you do can lead to incredible opportunities.
Her work on Eastenders is just one highlight in a career filled with remarkable achievements. From local events to international commercials, Natalie has proven that balloon artistry is a versatile and impactful form of creative expression.
