Irina Patterson of Balloon Art and Face Painting by Irina has had a remarkable, one-of-a-kind adventure to becoming a balloon twister and entertainer. From an unlikely career change to a move halfway around the world, Irina’s journey to a joyful and passion-filled career couldn’t have been more indirect. However, sometimes the best routes are windy, and she has certainly found her calling. Read about Irina’s success story in this month’s member spotlight for inspiration and insights into using GigSalad to share your talent.
Becoming a Professional Balloon Twister
Irina humorously describes herself as a “party clown with an MD.” Before becoming a balloon twister, Irina was an emergency care doctor in her home country of Russia. Yearning for a break from the monotony, she took a leap of faith, moving to sunny Miami to meet a man she had only known through love letters. That gamble paid off, leading to a marriage that Irina fondly describes as an Oscar-worthy love story. It was during this new chapter that she discovered her passion for balloon twisting and entertaining, setting the stage for a remarkable career shift.
The Beginning
“My life was as predictable as a Russian winter — dull and conventional, with only one thrill: finally clocking out after a 24-hour shift and collapsing into my own bed!” Irina recalls. While attending a party at Jungle Island, she saw her first balloon twister. “I grew up in Soviet Russia. We didn’t have balloon twisters. I never saw one in my industrial city, Izhevsk, 600 miles east of Moscow,” writes Irina. It was at that party that she realized she wanted to be an entertainer and balloon twister.
Explaining the reasoning behind her choice to go in a completely different direction, she says, “Why? Because there is so much happiness around it. I was like, ‘They pay money for that? Nice! I’ll be a balloon-twisting clown tomorrow morning!'” And with that can-do attitude and passion, her new career began. She’s been balloon twisting, face painting, and entertaining people of all ages since 2004.
Creative Joys
While Irina hasn’t received any formal training in clowning, balloon twisting, or face painting, she holds an Art School Diploma in classical painting and sculpture and has a natural gift for creativity. Using her knowledge and talents, she has become skilled in her craft. She clarifies, “Even back in Russia, I was always artsy. Once, I made a dress out of medical gauze and dyed it with beet juice. I have a knack for unconventional choices.” She says, “I thought of balloons as clay and just went on to sculpt freestyle.”
Balloon twisting and face painting are not her only talents. “One day I’m a balloon artist, the next I’m Queen Elsa from Frozen, and then—bam!—I’m a mime at a fundraiser gala,” Irina explains. “Indeed, I am a one-woman variety show, and I thrive on it. Boredom is my kryptonite. Plus, it keeps me guessing. I never know what crazy character I’ll be next!”
While reflecting on a memorable gig—balloon twisting for 300 kids at former NBA athlete Alonzo Mourning’s Christmas party—Irina describes what keeps her coming back. “Who knew that spreading joy could feel like being in the middle of a stampede? I was, cranking out top hats, ladybug bracelets, and a small army of balloon swords. Talk about pressure! And that is what I love — shared joy.”
Looking Ahead
Irina’s future is bright, and she’s dreaming big, ready for new challenges. “This year, I’m itching to break into stand-up comedy. I auditioned for America’s Got Talent and got a callback! Picture me on stage, trying to channel my inner comedian while I’m just a Miami birthday clown.”
While she’s had failures in the past, there’s a big difference between her past self and the Irina we see today: “I’ve got the confidence, the business skills, and a lot of nerve. If I can handle a room full of sugar-high kids demanding balloon animals, I can tackle anything in showbiz.”
Irina’s GigSalad Journey
Irina has been a member of GigSalad for 10 years, using the platform to increase her success and do more of what she loves. Since joining, she has learned how to take advantage of the tools available and has practical and professional advice to land more gigs.
Using GigSalad
GigSalad: How did you first hear about GigSalad, and what drew you to join the platform?
Irina Patterson: Ah, GigSalad! I love GigSalad! I get leads every single day. Every single day! It was in 2014, I think, when I stumbled upon GigSalad during one of my sleepless nights, probably while searching for “how to market yourself as a clown.” I was drawn in by the idea of connecting with potential clients who are ready to pay. What could be more thrilling than someone nice wanting to book you?
Still, being cautious, I remember trying a free GigSalad listing. I was booked just a few hours after my free listing went up. I still remember that booking. It was a $250 balloon art gig. A nice family who never saw me trusted me because Gigsald made me look prim and proper. Magic! As soon as I booked that, I upgraded my free listing to a paid one.
GS: Are there any tools/features you particularly like or have helped you succeed?
IP: The Reviews feature is golden! It bubbles over with so much love. When a client leaves a glowing review, it feels like a shot of confidence. Plus, it helps potential clients see that I’m not just some balloon clown off the street — I’m the variety entertainer with a fan club!
I love the alert system and how leads are always relevant. I reply, even if I am in the middle of the street. You want to be the first. That works!
⬆️ Considering upgrading? Read more here: Benefits of a Featured GigSalad Membership
Expert Tips
GS: As a multi-talented entertainer, how did you decide which category to primarily focus on for your GigSalad profile?
IP: Deciding on a focus is a challenge, but I ultimately chose balloon art and face painting because those are the gigs that keep me the busiest. You have to be pragmatic and offer what clients want the most as your primary category. Then, you can add all your other talents to 19 additional categories.
GS: Do you have any techniques that have worked for you regarding responding to leads? (For example, do you respond in a specific time frame, call them, keep messages short, etc.)
IP: Speed is key! When I get a lead, I respond instantly. If you wait too long, they might find another entertainer who can do the job better.
I keep my messages short and sprinkled with humor. After all, if they’re looking for a clown, they probably want someone who can make them laugh, right? A little wit goes a long way in making a memorable first impression!
💡 More tips for responding to leads: How to Respond to a Lead from a Potential Client
Client Satisfaction
GS: You have such great reviews! How do you ensure your clients are satisfied and the event goes well?
IP: That’s easy! I always arrive early to set up and get a feel for the event. I read the room like a doctor reading an X-ray — quickly and accurately! If I see a bunch of kids bouncing off the walls, I know I need to bring my A-game.
I engage with the kids, ask them what they want, and then deliver. If a boy wants a balloon dinosaur, I’m going to make the best dinosaur he’s ever seen!
I also follow up after the event to thank the parents for a great time. It’s true — I genuinely enjoy the time I spend with the families. What’s not to love? Positive emotions, laughter, and rainbow colors are great for your well-being!
🔄 Follow-up is the key to success: Why the Work Doesn’t Stop When the Gig is Done
Words of Wisdom
GS: What is ONE thing you would say to someone on the fence about joining GigSalad? Any advice?
IP: Just do it! GigSalad is a fantastic platform to showcase your skills. Be passionate about what you offer; it shows. Let your personality shine. You never know where this journey might take you. Who knows? You might become the next superstar of your neighborhood — or a global sensation!
🌟 Looking for more inspirational success stories? Check out last month’s Member Spotlight: Meet Saxophonist Alex LiveSaX.
We’re inspired by Irina’s passion, creativity, and willingness to take risks for happiness. We hope this month’s success story encourages you to make some bold decisions, maybe even try something new, and ultimately pursue more of what you love. 💙
Matt Holland is a Customer Happiness Agent at GigSalad. With 10+ years of experience performing as a jazz drummer, he has gained insights into the life of a gigging musician as well as what makes an event go off without a hitch. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, hiking, reading, cooking, and watching the newest TV shows with his wife.