Daily Inspiration: Meet Payton Russell

Today we’d like to introduce you to Payton Russell.

Hi Payton, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
I recently graduated from Ball State University a semester early in December 2022. It was a quick decision, but I wanted to make the most of my semester ahead and decided to move to Kansas City. I applied for loads of jobs in the graphic design area and got a response to work at Alpha-Lit KC. The company is also in the event design business and rents marquee light-up letters. It has been hard work, but I have learned so much about other vendors in the Kansas City area and the city itself! I had done a year-long internship the year prior with balloons and thought about continuing to grow in that business somehow, so what better way to start fresh in a new city with a new company?

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a smooth road?
It has not been bad, and some days are packed with multiple events because I am working for Alpha-Lit KC on top of my balloon business, which can get a little crazy. But I am a planner and organized, so on days when I know I will be busy, I have every event prepped and a strategic plan for how I will execute it.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Russell the Brand specializes in creating unique balloon installations, both large and small, whether it be mosaic balloon letters, large balloon backdrop walls, balloon centerpieces, or singular jumbo balloons with a vinyl saying. I am most proud of collaborating with the other company I work for, Alpha-Lit KC, in surrounding large marquee sayings with balloons to create a beautiful backdrop. What sets me apart from the others is that I am starting my business young. I am 22 years old and have been learning and growing so quickly. I know how to use all types of social media to my benefit. I am also fresh out of art school, so my creative juices are continuously flowing and ready for something new and great.

Who else deserves credit in your story?
Surprisingly, after moving to Kansas City the first week, I decided, okay, I’m starting my business now, without telling anyone but my boyfriend. I ended up calling my parents and telling them. They were proud, but I wanted this to be my own with no other side comments from anyone else, and they said to me from the beginning that they are always there to help if I need anything. My boyfriend and his family have been such an incredible help. Mostly, their jobs are just helping me transfer the balloons and unload them at the events, and then I take it from there. Although, at one wedding event, we had to hang a huge cloud of balloons from the ceiling, and my boyfriend was the brains behind that one. He got on a 50-foot ladder and risked his life for the balloons. What an angel.

Pricing:

• $28/foot
• Our popular half arches- $300-450
• Balloon backdrop walls $850
• Singular Jumbo Balloons- start @ $35
• Balloon Bouquets- $25-40

Contact Info:

• Website: www.russellthebrand.com
• Instagram: russellthebrandballoons_