New Haven – Celeste Coleman, the founder of Connecticut Balloons, was the centerpiece of the first annual Black Summer festival held on the grounds of the stately 1804 mansion on Townsend Avenue. As she scaled an eight‑foot ladder to perfect a cascading balloon garland, a staff member from The Estate asked, “Are you okay with heights?” Coleman answered with a smile, confident in the skill she has honed over five years of entrepreneurship.
From Hospital Hallways to Balloon Heavens
Before launching her balloon business, Coleman worked as an oncology technician at St. Raphael’s Hospital, a job she described as “a way to support my family.” While caring for patients, she would often give them flower arrangements she crafted at home. One patient told her, “You have a gift. Life is short, you need to go follow your dreams.” Inspired by that encouragement, Coleman began taking classes in balloon design and event décor, eventually leaving the hospital to pursue her own venture.
Starting with small weekend gigs for birthday parties and fundraisers, Coleman’s reputation grew quickly. A turning point came when a hired balloon vendor failed to appear for an event; she stepped in, completed the installation herself, and realized she could run the entire operation. Since then, she has taken courses in New York, New Jersey, and Georgia, investing in her own education and expanding her skill set.
Black Summer Celebration Highlights Local Talent
The Black Summer festival, described by co‑coordinator Angel Dahfay as “centered around rest and a celebration of Black culture,” featured a curated lunch by Luke’s Chef Vincent Chirico, craft cocktails from Anchor Spa, cigars from Broadleaf Collective, and live music on the impeccably manicured grounds. Coleman’s balloon installations added a vibrant visual element to the Gatsby‑esque affair, with rich brown tones that complemented the historic setting.
Local business owners praised Coleman’s work. Renee Brown, owner of Trachouse Beauty Salon and Black Summer co‑coordinator, said she first noticed Coleman’s talent at a baby shower and immediately recognized her potential. “Right away, I knew she had it,” Brown recalled.
Award‑Winning Entrepreneur and Mentor
In June, Coleman received the Business Award at the Freddy Fixer Awards gala for “transforming ordinary spaces into extraordinary experiences,” recognizing her contributions to corporate events, upscale weddings, and landmark birthdays. She also launched “The Balloon Blueprint,” an educational program designed to help aspiring entrepreneurs turn their creative talents into profitable businesses.
Coleman is passionate about mentoring other women. “I mentor a lot of ladies that are pursuing this career,” she said, noting that she welcomes questions and offers guidance without acting as a gatekeeper. She highlighted mentee Twonisha Wright, who now decorates her medical practice with balloon arrangements for special occasions.
Faith‑Like Commitment to Service
Recently, Coleman was asked to create an installation for a funeral repast. She described the experience as “like a ministry,” weaving flowers through balloons to honor the departed. Attendees praised the work, calling it “spectacular.” Coleman reflected on the opportunity, saying, “What a beautiful canvas. To be able to do this is a gift.”
Celeste Coleman’s journey from hospital technician to celebrated balloon entrepreneur exemplifies the power of hard work, community support, and a willingness to invest in one’s own talents. Her story adds a bright note to New Haven’s vibrant cultural scene and underscores the city’s growing reputation as a hub for innovative small businesses.
Original reporting: New Haven Independent — read the source article.
