As one of the world’s largest special shape hot air balloon businesses, some of the buoyant designs at this year’s Bristol International Balloon Fiesta will most likely have come from MJ Ballooning.

In anticipation of this year’s event, Bristol 24/7 met with owner Matt Joyce, 25, from Fishponds, who has helmed the brand for six years. As a child, Matt was inspired by gazing at the balloon-filled ...