Nicole Torres, the owner of Zats Décor, is a self-taught balloon artist and entrepreneur.  She was born and raised in Puerto Rico and studied Office Technology Management. In 2012, Nicole and her family decided they wanted more for their future, so they moved to the mainland. Nicole had her oldest son in March 2019, and in November 2020, she left her corporate job because it was the best choice for her family. Nicole had her second son in July 2021 and returning to the corporate world seemed further away.

While attending local events for children, Nicole met a group of other stay-at-home moms and it was the breath of fresh air she needed. The children were all close in age and so were all the moms, so they all just clicked! They would get together a few times a month for playdates or to celebrate birthdays, and each parent would bring something to contribute to the party. One mom was a baker who would bring cakes; another mom loved crafts and made personalized goodie bags; and Nicole decided to bring balloons.

The more she practiced the more she fell in love with the art of balloons and event décor and became known as the “balloon mom” of the group. In September 2022, one of the moms asked if Nicole could decorate a party for her daughter–separate from the birthday group celebrations. Even though Nicole was hesitant and didn’t feel confident, it was her first paid job. But her confidence soared afterward, and by 2023– with the support of family, community, and friends– she was fully booked! Nicole grew her business very quickly and now does entire events including centerpieces, linens, backdrops, and sweets table. 

Alongside growing her business and live streaming several times a week– where she also teaches and educates other artists– Nicole now inspires other mothers to connect with their inner selves and not be afraid of what they can become.  

“Sometimes being a mother can take away your identity and you become just ‘so and so’s mom’, but we are still ourselves. Yes, we change, and we adapt for our children, but we can also get lost in the role of mom. It is so important to find your passion and just like it was for me, it might be something you don’t even see coming. I absolutely and undoubtedly found my passion, and there is no limit. Balloons have become my dream and I am living my dreams come true and loving every second of it! I cannot wait to see what the future holds.”