Today we’d like to introduce you to Janet Gast.
Hi Janet , can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My Journey: From Passion to Purpose
For as long as I can remember, I’ve had a deep love for creating beautiful spaces and unforgettable moments. Event planning and decor have always come naturally to me — from family birthday parties to small gatherings with friends, I found joy in turning the ordinary into something truly special. What began as a passion I nurtured in my spare time quickly became more than just a hobby. On weekends, I poured my heart into helping loved ones bring their visions to life — not for profit, but for the pure satisfaction of seeing their faces light up with joy.
The name Bombas actually came from those early days, when I was known for crafting bold, colorful balloon garlands that brought life to every space. But the name stuck — and it grew with me. In Puerto Rican culture, Bomba is a traditional folkloric music genre that represents joy, family, rhythm, and unity. It felt fitting to carry that spirit into my business, because that’s exactly what I strive to create at every event: joy, connection, and moments that bring people together.
At the beginning of this year, life threw me an unexpected curveball — I was laid off from my 8-to-5 job. In that moment of uncertainty, I had a choice: return to the safety of working for someone else, or take a leap of faith and build something for myself, grounded in love and purpose. I chose to go all in.
What started as a side hustle turned into a full-time, full-service events company — and while the path hasn’t been easy, it has been deeply gratifying. Every event I design is more than just decor; it’s a reflection of the heart, heritage, and passion that fuels Bombas.
This isn’t just work for me. It’s joy. It’s culture. It’s love made visible.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Building a business from the ground up requires more than just passion — it demands unwavering commitment and dedication. I wear many hats: from answering every inquiry and designing every detail, to sourcing materials, coordinating logistics, and executing each event with precision and care. There are long days, sleepless nights, and moments of doubt — but through it all, I’ve learned the importance of staying grounded and true to myself. Every high and low has taught me something valuable, and it’s in those tough moments that I’m reminded why I started. This business is not just about events — it’s about resilience, authenticity, and creating meaningful experiences that last far beyond a single day.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
At Bombas, I specialize in creating custom, one-of-a-kind events for all types of celebrations — from birthdays and baby showers, to mitzvahs, weddings, and everything in between. Every event I design is tailored to tell a unique story, with meticulous attention to detail and a focus on delivering exceptional customer service. It’s the little things — the personal touches, the thoughtful planning, and the flawless execution — that truly set me apart. Over the past few months, I’ve been proud to see my business grow, thanks to the power of networking, building meaningful connections, and putting myself out there. What I’m most proud of, however, is the relationships I’ve built with my clients. Their trust and connection is everything to me, and it’s what inspires me to bring their visions to life in the most beautiful, authentic way possible.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
For anyone just starting out, my advice is simple: persistence and resilience are everything. There will be days when you feel like throwing in the towel, when the road ahead seems impossible. On those days, take a step back. Refocus, reset, and remember why you started. Then, come back the next day with a fresh perspective. I wish someone had told me, early on, just how important meaningful connections are. Not every inquiry or contact will turn into a client, and that’s okay. Be selective, be intentional, and stay true to the values of your brand. Build relationships with people who align with your vision — those are the clients who will appreciate your work the most and who will help you grow.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bombasevents.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bombas_events/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bombasevents
Image Credits
Golden Palm Photography
Momentos by Camille
