Today we’d like to introduce you to Hayley Ramsey.
Hi Hayley, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’m Hayley, the owner and creative behind Grace Nicole Designs. What started as a small creative outlet has grown into a full-time business that I’m incredibly proud of.
A few years ago, I was working in the corporate world when the pandemic hit and daycare closed. Like so many parents, I suddenly found myself at home full-time with my kids, and that season completely shifted my priorities. My husband encouraged me to find something that brought me joy while still allowing me to be home with our girls — and that’s really how Grace Nicole Designs began.
Creativity runs deep in my family. My Granny Mac was the original “craft queen” — she even had her own Christmas TV segment showing off her beautifully decorated packages — and my mom always made sure my sister and I were creating something, whether it was decorating, crafting, or painting. So, in a lot of ways, this business feels like carrying on that creative family legacy.
My journey with balloons and banners started right at home. I made my first balloon setup for one of my daughters’ birthdays and instantly fell in love with it. Shortly after, I created a custom banner for my niece, Scout, and from there, Grace Nicole Designs was officially born.
The name itself has a special meaning. “Grace” actually came from my mom — she used to call me that as a joke because I was always so clumsy growing up. I’d trip over air, bump into walls, and she’d laugh and say, “Nice going, Grace!” So when I had my first daughter, it only felt right to include “Grace” in her name.
And “Nicole” comes from my sister, Courtney Nicole. She was so upset that I didn’t name my oldest after her that I had no choice but to name my youngest after her — and honestly, it just fit perfectly. Together, “Grace” and “Nicole” became the heart behind Grace Nicole Designs.
What started as a simple passion project has grown into something I never imagined — a business that brings people joy, helps celebrate milestones, and allows me to share my creativity with others. My girls are my biggest inspiration, and my goal has always been to show them that no matter your age or circumstances, you can chase your dreams and turn them into something beautiful.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It’s definitely not always been smooth — but I think that’s what makes it so rewarding! Like most small business owners, I’ve faced my fair share of challenges, especially in the beginning. I started Grace Nicole Designs with no business background, no fancy equipment, and honestly, no idea it would ever become what it is today. There was a lot of trial and error — figuring out pricing, shipping, supply issues, social media, you name it.
And who knew that when you start your own small business, you also have to become a content creator?! I’ve learned how to style photos, shoot videos, write captions, and keep up with algorithms — all while trying to keep balloons from floating away and paint from drying too fast!
One of the biggest struggles early on was balance. I was learning how to grow a business while still being a full-time stay-at-home mom. There were many late nights painting banners after bedtime or inflating balloons in the middle of the living room while my girls played around me. It was chaotic at times, but also really special because they’ve grown up watching me build this from the ground up.
There were moments of doubt too — wondering if I was doing enough or if I could really turn this into something sustainable. But every kind message from a customer or every event I got to be a part of reminded me why I started in the first place.
Running a small business definitely comes with bumps in the road — learning curves, burnout, the pressure of wearing every hat — but it’s also given me so much purpose and flexibility. Every challenge has taught me something new and pushed me to keep growing both creatively and personally.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in creating custom balloon décor and hand-painted kraft-paper banners for all types of events — from birthdays and baby showers to weddings, holidays, and everything in between. My work is all about transforming spaces and making people smile. I love mixing creativity with personal touches, whether that’s through a giant balloon arch that fills a room or a hand-painted banner that feels completely one-of-a-kind.
I think what sets Grace Nicole Designs apart is the heart behind it. Every piece I create is personal — I truly pour myself into the details. I’m not just inflating balloons or painting paper; I’m helping people celebrate some of the most special moments in their lives. I always say I want everything I make to feel intentional and full of joy, because those moments deserve to be remembered. I genuinely care about each client and every event, and I’ll always go the extra mile to make sure it’s perfect — because that’s exactly what they deserve.
Over time, I’ve become known for my bright, bold color palettes, fun textures, and signature touches like giant bows and custom designs that reflect each client’s personality. I love that no two projects are ever exactly the same — every setup feels like its own little piece of art.
What I’m most proud of is how far this business has come — from painting banners at my kitchen table to now having clients who trust me to bring their visions to life for major milestones. It’s also been amazing to see my daughters watch it all unfold — they help with color choices, come to installs, and remind me why I started this in the first place.
At the end of the day, I think people connect to Grace Nicole Designs because it’s personal, heartfelt, and just a little bit “extra” — in the best way possible! I want everything I create to feel like it was made with love, because it truly is.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
I think the quality that’s been most important to my success is genuine passion — both for what I do and for the people I create for. I truly love bringing someone’s vision to life and seeing their reaction when it all comes together. That excitement and joy keep me going, even when things get chaotic.
Another big part of my success is my commitment to quality. I only use the best of the best materials in every setup. I never skip on quality because it not only shows my clients that I care, but it also ensures that every balloon stays inflated, in place, and picture-perfect for their entire event. Those little details matter to me — I want each design to look just as beautiful at the end of the celebration as it did the moment I finished setting it up.
And honestly, perseverance plays a huge role too. Running a small business takes long hours, flexibility, and a lot of learning as you go. But I’ve found that when you lead with heart, stay consistent, and genuinely care about the people you’re creating for, that’s when everything falls into place.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.gracenicoledesigns.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gracenicoledesignsllc/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gracenicoledesignsllc/
