Allison Dunning of Merry Makers, LLC has been putting smiles on the faces of kids of all ages for more than 24 years. As a mother of toddlers, she was first introduced to balloon art by a cousin who wanted to secure a place in the hearts of Allison’s children by creating balloon sculptures. Immediately intrigued, Allison began absorbing all she could about learning the craft of balloon art. Within weeks of her newfound love, she was twisting balloons for tips at a local IHOP. She attempted to further her reach by interviewing with a company to become one of their balloon artists, but when confronted with their no-compete contract, Allison was spurred on to create her own empire in Northern Colorado, and Merry Makers, LLC was born. About a year into twisting balloons, she began exploring balloon decor, where her true passion landed. At the same time she was raising her children, she was growing her business with a baby in a sling and toddlers underfoot. Merry Makers was a family affair from the start.
Allison is an icon in Northern Colorado, and her impact continues to shape the spirit of celebration throughout the community. Widely recognized for her talent not just as a balloon artist, but also a balloon decor designer, face painter, and character entertainer, she’s often booked well in advance for major events where she and her balloon art are the main attractions.
In addition to her balloon talent, Allison and her husband, Brian, have brought so much joy through their character work. Their characters have included Cinderella, clowns, fairies, pirates, and, of course, Santa. But who is Santa without Mrs. Claus? After all, we know she is the one who really runs the show. To take on a persona comes naturally to them, and Allison shares that being Santa and Mrs. Claus is the ”coolest job ever.” They love to represent that magical time of the year when people are at their happiest. Recognizing it as a joyous season with lights, snow, festive aromas, and glowing trees, they consider being ambassadors of joy and merriment the greatest gift, and they take it very seriously.
Every day that Allison gets to do what she does, she is reminded of why she does it. Kids and adults alike are so responsive and grateful for everything Merry Makers does, whether it’s face painting, being Santa and Mrs. Claus, creating a balloon animal, or crafting intricate balloon decor to complement any occasion. As a creative artist, she wholeheartedly accepts her calling to create, have fun, and make people happy. To watch a creation come to life in front of someone and see them walk away as if that was everything they never knew they needed brings immeasurable joy to Allison.
Today, the business includes two distinct branches:
- Merry Makers LLC, which provides family-friendly entertainment, including face painting and beloved characters like pirates, and the ever-popular Santa and Mrs. Claus.
- Balloon Art by Merry Makers, the specialized decor arm that creates stunning balloon installations for grand openings, proms, galas, graduations, and corporate celebrations across Colorado.
An added blessing and a dream realized is working side by side with her daughter, Rowan, who came on board full-time in 2022 - something Allison didn’t even know she wanted until it became a reality.
To learn more or bring added joy to your next event, contact Merry Makers at info@makeitmerry.com or visit their website at makeitmerry.com. To elevate your event with unique and unmatched balloon decor, contact Balloon Art by Merry Makers at info@balloonartbymerrymakers.com or visit their website at balloonartbymerrymakers.com.