Business owners have gone above and beyond including sacrificing wages to ensure they are the one-stop shop for parties in the city and surrounding areas.  

Helen Kerton and Julie Wentworth have been owners of Balloons and Bakes since October 2021 and - just 18 months after opening - they have won a ‘retailer of the year’ award.  

The shop in the heart of old Catton provides all types of celebration cakes including allergy-friendly cakes, helium balloons, badges and banners.

Norwich Evening News: The company has become well known for being able to cater to all tastes The company has become well known for being able to cater to all tastes (Image: Balloons and Bakes)

But what is it really like being surrounded by parties all year round?  

Julie said: “It is an exciting job, and we are grateful to be part of significant milestones in people’s lives. 

Norwich Evening News: Following the shortage of helium the business has introduced balloon stacks which use air filled balloons. Following the shortage of helium the business has introduced balloon stacks which use air filled balloons. (Image: Balloons and Bakes)

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“We particularly love being on the journey with our customers, providing for their gender reveal, baby shower, christening, first birthday - it’s lovely.” 

The shop aims to make each party unique - even offering a personalised balloon service. 

Norwich Evening News: The pair say they are still overwhelmed following their win at the awards The pair say they are still overwhelmed following their win at the awards (Image: Balloons and Bakes)

Helen said: “We can make balloons even more special by personalising them or adding extra touches like butterflies or flowers” 

Julie is also an expert when it comes to fondant and has made some incredible things including a pork pie, Pokémon characters and a highland cow.  

Julie added: “I loved making a traffic cone cake, it’s always exciting to do something a bit different” 

Norwich Evening News: Julie is an expert in fondant and has even been able to make a traffic cone birthday cake Julie is an expert in fondant and has even been able to make a traffic cone birthday cake (Image: Balloons and Bakes)

Most recently the pair have sacrificed some of their wages to ensure the shop is full to the brim with things to cater for every party.

All this has helped them win retailer of the year at the Broadland and South Norfolk Business Awards.  

Helen said: “Our feet haven’t touched the ground since we won, it is quite overwhelming to think that little old us could win something so amazing.” 

Norwich Evening News: The pair are even able to help with balloons and decorations for last minute celebrations. The pair are even able to help with balloons and decorations for last minute celebrations. (Image: Balloons and Bakes)

To find out more follow Balloons and Bakes on Facebook and Instagram.