How to Start an Event Décor and Balloons Business in Kenya
Introduction
The event décor and balloons business in Kenya is one of the most exciting and creative hustles with strong growth potential. From birthdays and baby showers to weddings and corporate events, Kenyans love well-decorated spaces that make celebrations memorable. Balloons, ribbons, flowers, and themed setups are in high demand, and event organizers are willing to pay well for professional decoration services. With creativity, basic supplies, and low startup capital, you can start small and grow into a full-scale event décor company.
Startup Costs 💰
The capital varies depending on how big you want to start.
- Capital Needed: KES 8,000 – 25,000
- Key Expenses:
- Balloons, ribbons, and decorative materials — KES 3,000 – 8,000
- Scissors, stands, tapes, and glues — KES 1,000 – 3,000
- Chairs, tables, and tents (if hiring out) — optional
- Transport costs — KES 1,000 – 5,000
- Branding and marketing — KES 1,000 – 2,000
💡 Tip: Start with balloon décor for birthdays and small events, then expand into weddings and corporate setups as you gain experience.
Why This Business Works ✅
- High Demand: Birthdays, weddings, and baby showers happen every week.
- Creative and Fun: You get paid to design beautiful spaces.
- Low Entry Cost: Start with balloons and ribbons before scaling.
- Repeat Clients: Families and corporate customers hire decorators often.
- Scalability: Grow from small parties to full event planning services.
Step-by-Step Setup 🛠️
1. Learn Basic Décor Skills
- Balloon arches, garlands, and table setups.
- Color themes and event styling.
- Practice through YouTube tutorials or short courses.
2. Buy Supplies
Start with balloons, ribbons, banners, and simple backdrops. Invest in a balloon pump for speed.
3. Identify Your Market
- Birthdays in estates.
- Baby showers and bridal showers.
- Weddings and graduations.
- Corporate events and product launches.
4. Set Prices
- Birthday balloon setup: KES 3,000 – 7,000
- Baby shower/bridal shower décor: KES 10,000 – 20,000
- Wedding décor: KES 30,000 – 100,000+ (depending on size)
5. Market Your Services
- Showcase your décor on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.
- Partner with event planners and photographers.
- Offer discounts to first-time clients.
Profit Breakdown 📊
Example:
- Small birthday setup costs KES 3,000 to prepare (balloons, ribbons, labor).
- Charge KES 7,000.
- Profit = KES 4,000 per event.
If you handle 3 events per week:
- Profit = 3 x 4,000 = KES 12,000 weekly.
- Monthly = KES 50,000 – 70,000.
👉 With weddings and corporate events, profits can reach KES 100,000+ monthly.
Challenges & How to Overcome Them ⚠️
- Competition: Many decorators in urban areas.
- Solution: Build a unique style and focus on customer service.
- Seasonal Demand: Fewer weddings in rainy months.
- Solution: Diversify into birthdays and corporate décor.
- Transport & Logistics: Carrying items to venues is costly.
- Solution: Start small and reinvest into a van or pickup.
- Client Expectations: Some clients want luxury décor on a small budget.
- Solution: Offer tiered packages (basic, standard, premium).
Tips to Grow 🚀
- Specialize in themed events (cartoon themes, elegant weddings).
- Rent out extra items (chairs, tents, backdrops).
- Train others and earn through workshops.
- Partner with cake makers and photographers for complete packages.
- Brand your business with a catchy name like “Elegant Touch Events Kenya.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) ❓
Q: How much do I need to start an event décor business in Kenya?
A: With KES 8,000 – 25,000, you can buy basic balloon and décor supplies to start.
Q: How profitable is this business?
A: Profits range from KES 4,000 per small event to over KES 50,000 monthly for bigger setups.
Q: Do I need training?
A: Not mandatory, but short courses or online tutorials help sharpen your décor skills.
Q: Where can I get clients?
A: Social media, estate WhatsApp groups, referrals, and partnerships with event planners.
Conclusion
The event décor and balloons business in Kenya is a creative, fun, and profitable hustle with constant demand from birthdays, weddings, and corporate functions. With KES 8,000 – 25,000, you can start with balloons and ribbons, build your reputation, and expand into large-scale décor packages. With creativity, good marketing, and professionalism, this hustle can grow into a successful event planning company.
👉 Explore more hustler-friendly opportunities in the Business Ideas Hub — with over 50+ small businesses you can start today.
