whimsy and WILD

26/06/2024

Please share and donate 💕

A Meal Train page is active for Kristin Shaffer. MealTrain.com simplifies the process of giving and receiving meals and more.

04/06/2024

I have been eagerly, and warily, anticipating this day for months. The chaos, stress, the strain on my body, and the constant creative and logistical demands have come to an end. The long hours and time spent away from Quinn are behind me. Shouldn’t I be feeling happy now?

Last week in the span of 24 hours, I unexpectedly encountered three people who were among the first to take a chance on me years ago. I vividly recall their names, the locations of their events, even the color of their balloons. Five years later, those memories still linger.

Reflecting on the lives and experiences I’ve been fortunate enough to be a part of is truly overwhelming. I believed I was prepared to say goodbye, the benefits of closing up shop undoubtedly outweigh the drawbacks. However, the truth is, I’m not entirely ready or at peace with this decision. I feel very emotional about it.

You welcomed me into your lives.
You took a chance on me.
You entrusted me with your visions, your money, and your lifelong memories.
You supported me and my family during challenging times.
Your kind words and unwavering support for my art have meant the world to me.
You and your children even referred to me as the “balloon lady”.
You made me feel like my true self.

As I write this, tears flow freely for the joyful memories of past years and the future celebrations I will miss out on. No more bridal showers, weddings, baby showers, birthdays, or other significant events to be a part of. The thought of no longer being a part of these milestones for my customers is truly heartbreaking.

It has been an absolute honor and privilege to celebrate with each and every one of you. Thank you for embracing whimsy and WILD. Thank you for believing in me.

I am grateful to my support system for lifting me up and keeping me going.

I am forever thankful for my balloon besties. Thank you for being a source of support and inspiration that I will always remember.  (Besties are tagged ♥️)

Last night, I said to Quinn: “You know I’m closing my business this week?  I’m sad.” His response: “I’m not sad. More time with you now.”  This is my reason. My why.  My everything.

On to a new chapter in life.

Thank you,
Kate

25/04/2024

This display will never not take my breath away. 🤍

25/01/2024

It's that magical time of the year once again! The holidays have come to an end and the cold has taken up residence in Central Pa. And guess what? Harrisburg Magazine Simply The Best is back in action! I would truly appreciate your support by nominating (and eventually voting for) both of my amazing businesses. (Link below)

Over the past five years, I've poured my heart and soul into creating stunning displays and working hard to make your celebrations extraordinary and memorable. Although I've had to slow down a bit due to injury, I'm determined to bounce back and create even more spectacular displays for each and every one of you! 🥳

The support I’ve received from all of you throughout this journey has been nothing short of overwhelming. Thank you for making this insanely impulsive idea I had five years ago of quitting my job to make balloon displays for a living worth it. ♥️

•NOMINATE•

https://harrisburgmagazine.com/simply-the-best-2024/ #//

Category: Weddings & Events
whimsy and WILD Balloon Design:
Birthday Party Services
Alpha Lit Central Pa Marquees:
Party Rentals

23/01/2024

Just popping in to hello! I’m slowly but surely beginning to use my right arm again. I can hold items weighing less than 1lb and kind of put my hair in a low bun and I can ALMOST touch my face with my right hand (helpful for face washing, makeup, scratching itches, etc). I’m headed to the doctor this morning and hopefully starting physical therapy asap. In the meantime, enjoy this photo of me showing off using my right arm. 😂

11/01/2024

Four years ago on a very cold day I trekked to Philly in a Uhaul and made this huge af wall. Looking back now, it’s not that huge and wouldn’t take me nearly as long as it did then, but that day, it was a massive undertaking for me. I’m so thankful for my bestie for coming and helping. There’s no way I would’ve been able to construct that alone! And fyi, that whole 20ft wall is hanging from a bar on the ceiling… no command hooks on the wall behind and back in the day before I discovered the magic of 260s. 😭 but also 🙌🏻

08/01/2024

New year, more baby showers. 🤍

02/01/2024

NOW BOOKING weekends beginning March 9! Elbow recovery, vacation and shop moving will be out of the way and I’ll definitely be looking for a creative outlet. 😜

Link in bio! ⬆️

01/01/2024

Making an entrance since 2019 ✨

14/12/2023

Corporate vibes at Deloitte 💚