Business owner celebrates 22 years

TIFFIN-- Baskets and Balloons by Deborah will celebrate its 22 anniversary on June 10. Deborah Hale, owner and operator, said she got involved with balloons after seeing a TV commercial for a balloon convention. Baskets and Balloons specialize in different balloon displays, including arches, table arrangements, ceiling clusters, bouquets and more. "I told my husband back then that I thought they looked pretty neat and wanted to try it," Hale said. "Then I attended my first balloon convention in Chicago, and since then, we have attended several balloon training events." She designed the Columbian High School prom ballroom Saturday, which she has been doing for about 5 to 6 years. "Each month, my events very generally, the winter months are slow, and spring and summer are always busier; we do a lot of baby showers and graduation parties as well as special events such as grand openings and anniversary parties," she added. Hale has worked for companies like MARS, where she did displays for IAMS and Crave at a pet convention. "Occasionally, I get calls for last-minute balloons, but most people give plenty of notice," Hale said. "As for gift baskets, I stopped doing those several years ago. I still do an occasional candy bouquet, however. My favorite events to do are proms because that is when most of my creativity comes out." For more information about Basket and Balloons By Deborah, contact basketsandballoonsbydeborah@yahoo.com or call 419-937-2451.