St. Louis native and creative powerhouse Terry Bams is a man on a mission—to entertain, inspire, and create impact through storytelling. As the founder of Cinematic Bams Films and the creator of Pop the Balloon / Find Love STL, Terry is proving that passion and purpose can coexist beautifully when driven by authenticity and vision.

We had the opportunity to interview Terry as he discussed his journey as an entrepreneur, filmmaker, and community builder, and to get an inside look at what’s next for his growing brands. Read on or more.

Delux: What inspired you to step into the world of filmmaking and entrepreneurship?

Terry: I’ve always loved to create and have a wild imagination. Honestly, it all happened by accident. My wife wanted to start a YouTube channel, which turned into a family channel and from there, we eventually opened a few brick-and-mortar businesses. Since I already knew how to edit videos, I started doing commercial work for our own projects, and before I knew it, that passion grew into Cinematic Bams Films. The rest was history.

Delux: As a filmmaker, how do you balance creativity with the business side of production?

Terry: It’s easy,my creativity is the business. Most of my clients give me full creative control, which allows me to deliver authentic, standout work. That trust keeps the passion for what I do alive.

Delux: What makes Cinematic Bams Films stand out in today’s film/media industry?

Terry: My work doesn’t compare to anyone else’s. I bring a cinematic style and energy that’s completely my own raw, engaging, and built on storytelling that connects with real people.

Delux: What sparked the idea for Pop the Balloon / Find Love STL?

Terry: I was watching a version of Pop the Balloon on YouTube one day, and my curiosity kicked in. I thought, “How would this play out in St. Louis?” and from there, we brought the concept to life in our own way.

Delux: What’s been the most surprising reaction you’ve received from participants or viewers?

Terry: People always think our contestants are actors or that the show is staged. We do have a dress code and structure, but what you see is 100% real reactions. The show must go on—no scripts, just energy and vibes.

Delux: How do you balance entertainment with authenticity when it comes to showcasing love and dating?

Terry: We just let the show be the show. Real people, real moments and that’s what makes it entertaining and authentic at the same time.

Delux: How important is it for you to build platforms that reflect and serve the St. Louis community?

Terry: It’s very important. I feel like we’re showing the world that St. Louis has its own market for love and dating. Our cast might not always be the most polished group, but they’re real and that’s the heart of St. Louis.

Delux will be at the filming of Episode 37 this Thursday! Expect real moments, raw and unfiltered conversations, and authentic St. Louis energy as contestants take a chance at finding love. #Staytuned

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