Balloons help mark moments, milestones

SANDUSKY — This past year, Marissa Avalon's new business has really blown up for all the right reasons. A longtime personal balloon artist, Avalon ascended to new entrepreneurial heights in April when she officially unveiled Moments & Milestones, a company she owns and operates. "I've always loved event-styling and bringing people's visions to life," said Avalon, a 2012 Clyde High School graduate who, today, lives in Sandusky with her fiancé. Avalon described Moments & Milestones as a one-stop shop for creating custom balloon decor for special occasions. She can create arches, garlands, pillars, backdrops, bouquets, personalized signage and other visually appealing helium displays out of balloons. "Balloons felt like the perfect way to add instant joy, color and dimension to any celebration," said Avalon, noting she's also supported many community causes, donating her talents to important initiatives benefiting locals. "Starting my own business allowed me to combine my creativity with helping others celebrate milestones: weddings, baby showers, birthdays, corporate events, school functions and more," Avalon said. Whether for a 5-year-old child's birthday gathering or a couple's 50th wedding anniversary, no matter the function, Avalon always puts forth the same time, energy and effort into any one of her events. "I serve a wide range of clients: from individuals hosting intimate parties to large community events and corporate functions," Avalon said. "My promise is to deliver high-quality, durable balloon designs tailored to each client's theme and budget with reliable setup and tear-down so the host can enjoy their event stress-free." Avalon primarily serves areas within the counties of Erie, Huron, Ottawa and Sandusky. People can visit Facebook and search for "Moments & Milestones" for more information. "I've always had a passion for taking a vision and running with it, bringing it to life and perfecting every detail," Avalon said. "I truly go above and beyond for my clients because every moment and milestone is sentimental and deserves to be celebrated."