Today we’d like to introduce you to Courtney Sanders.
Hi Courtney, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started a small party Instagram account in 2015 after my son was born. I have always loved celebrating and hosting parties, and it was just something fun to do. I planned a couple of weddings, a medspa opening, a corporate Christmas party, and a retirement party. I had my daughter in 2016 and another daughter in 2017, so it was all hands on deck at home.
Fast forward to Covid, May 2020. I had one of those balloon garland kits that I had ordered but never used from a past baby shower, and out of boredom, I made my first garland! It was one of my best friend’s birthdays and drive-by birthdays were all the rage! My friend posted it on our neighborhood Facebook page. Within 48 hours, I had about 10 orders for graduation parties: many drive-by ceremonies or families wanting something “extra” to celebrate at home. I am wide awake ’til 2 am figuring it all out, and now I don’t even do the garlands the same way anymore!
I also introduced party boxes during the summer of 2020. A lot of people were still at home or celebrating with close family and friends. I decided I would streamline that for people by giving them all the materials they need to have a successful celebration! Whether it was a family birthday party, outdoor graduation, or celebrating a milestone – I put together the plates, napkins, cups, decor, etc. I packed it all in a box and dropped it off at their front door.
That summer, I planned a swoon-worthy 21st birthday surprise brunch for a Vanderbilt student whose parents lived in Seattle and couldn’t come down for the big day to celebrate with their daughter. I also did a perfect Covid-friendly outdoor baby shower for the 1st time mommy. I really have loved all the celebrations I have been a part of!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Ha! If someone had told me at the beginning of 2020 that I would have every extra space in my house filled with balloon bins or that I would have 18-wheeler trucks deliver helium tanks to my house, I would have laughed out loud!! It has been an adventure for sure, and I have definitely learned a lot through trial and error. I also love this job because I can do it on my time. I can still be a mom for my 3 young kids and work at night or on weekends.
We’ve been impressed with Franklin Celebrations, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Franklin Celebrations got its name in May 2020. I officially branded it in November 2020. I wanted my logo to be southern, classic, and timeless. I love the way it turned out! I have a fun holiday twist for it, and more seasonal changes coming soon.
I am not your average party planner. I say this because I want to help you throw a Target dollar spot ice cream party for your kids, AND I can plan your summer soirée! From my experience, party planners do not want to help with the little celebrations, and they have a budget requirement and lots of contracts. Those are the real challenges! Don’t get me wrong, huge, extravagant, over-the-top parties are enjoyable to plan and dream up, but I also love a good Dollar Tree and a small budget.
I recently brought on my best childhood friend to help me tackle balloon installs, and we love all the planning together! Amy and I are the perfect team as we are both moms of little kids who already know how to multi-task in our sleep! We also understand the balance and are here to help each other out while we do mom-life.
I got my name out there with balloons, and balloons are still the biggest part of my job but do not hesitate to ask about all things celebrations.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
Thank you to all my past clients for supporting my small business and helping Franklin Celebrations come to life!
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: Coming Soon!
- Instagram: @Franklin_Celebrations
- Facebook: @FranklinCelebrations
Image Credits
Pictures by: Darling Clementine by Christie Brace; Brooke Kelly Photography Marquee Letters: Letter Bright Nashville Cake: Almost Perfect Cakes Paper goods: Hester and Cook
