Original Story Posted Here: Balloon Artist Goes Big
Balloon artist Stephanie Cofield-Mixon of Celebration Creations and the Balloon Boutique in Manahawkin was one of 80 selected out of hundreds of applicants for the annual Big Balloon Build in northern Indiana. Cofield-Mixon has been selected for the second time to join a team of the world’s best balloon artists to create a “balloon wonderland” installation, with proceeds to benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities of Michiana.
DO-GOODERS: Stephanie Cofield-Mixon (right) meets Ronald McDonald House Founders Kathleen and Dave Sparks in her travels. (Supplied Photo)
“I count it a privilege to do what we are doing,” Cofield-Mixon said. “I love being a balloon artist, and this (event) gives me the opportunity to give back to a very worthwhile cause.”
She continued, “I’m in Indiana now, and on my way to get here, I was wearing my balloon gear. The founders of The Ronald McDonald House, Kathleen and Dave Sparks, spotted me and began to tell me how grateful they were for all we are doing.
“That was the most amazing feeling to see how my love for playing with balloons can make such a difference. I’m told so far we’ve raised over $250,000, with over 5,000 tickets sold and the largest amount raised in the history of balloon builds so far.
“The other bonus,” she added, “is seeing a group of ‘Type A’ personalities/artists put aside their egos to work cohesively on this huge collaboration.”
The Big Balloon Build is an international balloon event created with over 150,000 biodegradable balloons. This week Cofield-Mixon is working with other balloon artists to transform the Northern Indiana Event Center into a larger-than-life, fully immersive balloon carnival.
The exhibit includes tightrope walkers, Ferris wheel and clowns, all made of balloons, created in four days before opening to the public, according to Build Director Stuart Davies.
“We are thrilled to have Stephanie be a part of the team, helping us create this massive event and raising important funds for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Michiana,” he said.
Cofield-Mixon and her fellow artists are donating their time and talents as balloon artists, bringing joy and aid to children.
Her balloon decorating company, Celebration Creations, was started in 1989 in northern New Jersey; 25 years ago she moved to Ocean County, where she operates the Balloon Boutique in Manahawkin.
Cofield-Mixon said she enjoys opportunities to give back to the community whenever she can. Her dream is to bring the Big Balloon Build to New Jersey to offer a unique way for her community to raise important funds and awareness for a local children’s charity. Dedicated to creating magical and immersive balloon experiences, every Big Balloon Build is unique. Learn more at bigballoonbuild.com.
Follow the fun on Facebook and Instagram @celebrationcreations.