Entries tagged with: Balloons
Social media and its influence on the balloon trend
“Doin’ it for the ‘gram.” This sentiment is echoed in so many Instagram users, and the notion of posting things on social media includes Facebook and Twitter as well. Balloons are so much more than a last-minute get-well-soon gift or the marker attached to a mailbox to signify the party house. They evoke a classic cheerfulness, and now they add an artistic touch to some amazing Instagram accounts. “Like the cupcake before it, the balloon… » Read moreBalloons on the (campaign) trail
As Republicans, Democrats, Green Party and other Independents face off during the final days of the election campaign, there is one thing most parties will have in common when the results come in: balloons. For over fifty years, balloons — particularly those in red, white and blue — have been used on the campaign trail, at political conventions and most memorably on election night to celebrate victory. Some of the earliest images of campaigns and balloons can be found… » Read moreSteadying Structure
Balloon It centerpiece system aims to make life easier for consumers, retailers By Zeke Jennings | Managing Editor The Wilke family had always included balloons for family celebrations — they have four children — but as the kids began graduating the parties got bigger and moved outdoors, patriarch David Wilke decided balloons weren’t worth it anymore. In 2012, getting the necessary helium was starting to become a hassle, and even then, the finished balloon centerpieces weren’t… » Read moreWorld Balloon Convention dates announced on heels of CBS News feature
The next World Balloon Convention will be in Orlando, and it’s nearly three years from now, not two. Pioneer Worldwide announced Monday, Oct. 1, that the next installment of the WBC will be March 25-27, 2021, in Orlando, Florida. The WBC had previously been held in even-numbered years since its inception in 2010, including this year in San Diego. Pioneer will announce more details on its website and the WBC Facebook page. The announcement comes on… » Read moreGeorgia governor proclaims ‘Balloon Month’ in honor of international initiative
For the eighth year in a row, Maxine Burton, president and founder, and Bob Burton, CEO, of burton + BURTON have spearheaded the initiative to coincide “Balloon Month” in the State of Georgia via a balloon proclamation issued by Georgia Governor Nathan Deal. International Balloon Month seeks to raise awareness of the joy of balloons as well as to spotlight the economic impact the multi-billion dollar balloon industry has on the state of Georgia and the… » Read moreReader poll: More than half having trouble getting helium
By Zeke Jennings | Managing Editor Balloon retailers are well aware of the helium market’s volatility. Demand for the gas continues to rise as its uses in the medical and scientific fields grows. Meanwhile, the U.S. government is in the process of depleting the Federal Helium Reserve in Texas, putting pressure on private distributors to find alternative sources. While there was a noticeable shortage of helium approximately five years ago, balloon retailers haven’t had too… » Read moreCelebrate International Balloon Month with #LiftUpSomebody contest
Sharing smiles and Smart Balloon Practices are the focus of this year’s #LiftUpSomebody campaign which is part of the International Balloon Month celebration. The #LiftUpSomebody campaign inspires people around the world to “thank” someone special in their community by giving them balloons, and then share those moments of joy on social media. The campaign also encourages people to promote and follow the motto: “Don’t let go: Inflate. Weight. Enjoy.” “Giving balloons to important people in… » Read moreThe Balloon Council shifts stance on balloon releases: Don’t do it
From The Balloon Council: After years of thoughtful consideration, monitoring national and international trends and getting feedback from our diverse audience of balloon related businesses and balloon friends, TBC has decided to revise our stance on balloon releases. "In the past TBC didn't advocate for or against balloon releases, we advised people on the best practices to minimize environmental impact such as only using latex and not adding strings," said TBC Chairman Dan Flynn. "Over… » Read morePeer Perspective: Stuart Davies, Beyond Balloons
Stuart Davis Owner, Beyond Balloons Tonyrefail, Wales, UK When the family business fell on hard times, Stuart Davies saw opportunity in balloons. After intense study, Davies has achieved amazing results in just four short years. That includes designing a 45,000-balloon drop at this year’s World Balloon Convention welcome ceremony. He’s designed work for a Beyoncé label launch celebration on Oxford Street, for Walt Disney International on numerous projects and won an award for a 13,000-balloon… » Read moreAnother New England coastal community bans balloons
Yet another New England coastal community has banned the sale and release of balloons. Residents of Chatham, Massachusetts, voted Monday, May 14 to outlaw balloons, with the exception of for research purposes, citing them being hazardous to marine life and the environment, reported CapeCod.com. Chatham is located at the southeast corner of the hooked-shaped Cape Cod peninsula. Chatham joins fellow Cape Cod area communities Nantucket Island and Provincetown in banning balloons. Also, Block Island, Rhode… » Read moreEuropean balloon and party organization: No more balloon releases
The Balloon and Party Industry Alliance, a European trade organization based in the UK, is encouraging its members to no longer practice outdoor balloon releases. BAPIA’s official stance on balloon releases stems from feedback of its members. A May 15 Facebook post read: “BAPIA has taken the decision to no longer support the release of balloons into the environment. This decision has been taken based on the feedback from our members who have told us… » Read moreBalloon community’s best descend on San Diego for 2018 World Balloon Convention
(Click image for more photos) By Matt Cerre, Pioneer Balloon Co. Building on the success of the World Balloon Convention (WBC) 2016, nearly 900 delegates attended the highly anticipated WBC 2018, held March 14-17, in San Diego. Hosted by Pioneer Balloon Company, the event showcased balloon artists and balloon creations from all over the world, with delegates representing 52 countries. “We were overwhelmed by the enthusiastic response of the delegates,” said Ted A. Vlamis, president of Pioneer… » Read morePrivate helium distributors facing pressure as scientific demand for gas continues to rise
Increased demand for helium for scientific use, including by NASA, is putting further pressure on private distributors to meet demands for the natural gas. Samuel Burton, the field manager for the U.S. Bureau of Land Management’s helium reserves, recently told Chemical & Engineering News, that the bureau “is seeing increased demand by federal agencies,” NASA included, and added those agencies will be served first in terms of helium allocation. The Federal Helium Reserve is expected… » Read moreBlock Island latest New England community to ban balloons
The last balloon has popped on Block Island, at least legally. The five-member New Shoreham Town Council — the governing board on Block Island, a small island off the coast of Rhode Island — voted unanimously to outlaw the sales and use of all balloons on the island. The law went into effect on Monday, April 9. According to the ordinance, per the Block Island Times: “The purpose of this ordinance is to protect the… » Read moreWhat latex balloons look like after three months of biodegradation
Perhaps you recall reading about the Australian party store retailer that is conducting an experiment to see how biodegradable latex balloons really are. The Party’s Here recently posted an update of that experiment, which is now three months along. The update noted the hot summer sun has certainly had an effect on the state of the balloons. “Balloon colours have faded even more, particularly the Pearl Pink and Pearl Lime Green. The Ruby Red, Pearl… » Read moreProduct Picks: Balloons & Accesories
1. Weight with confetti from SKD Party by Forum 2. Flamingle Tropical Drink 41” from Rainbow Balloons 3. New Unicorn MyOwnPet by burton + BURTON 4. Pink or blue tissue confetti from Beistle 5. Spider MyOwnPet by burton + BURTON 6. Emoji balloons from Havercamp 7. The Party’s Here from CTI Industries 8. Unicorn Fun Stick Balloons from CTIPeer Perspective: Tiffany Burley, CBA, A Pop of Color Balloons
Tiffany Burley, CBA A Pop of Color Balloons Spring, Texas As a 10-year professional balloon artist, Tiffany Burley has experienced more than a few customers who think what she creates isn’t all that tough. Burley embraces the public education part of things, however. Could you share a little about your background and why you got into balloon design? My love for balloons started when working at my mother’s gift shop back in the ‘90s. She had… » Read moreBalloon ban could be on the way for Block Island, Rhode Island
Government officials on Block Island off the coast of Rhode Island are taking steps to ban the sale balloons there. Block Island is home to about 1,000 people and is a popular spot for tourism and events. It is also home to a national wildlife refuge. The Block Island Town Council will hold a public hearing on Monday, April 2 to discuss the banning of non-biodegradeable balloons on the island. The council, at the urging… » Read moreChatting with balloon instructor Sue Bowler
Balloon artist and instructor Sue Bowler tells us what question she hears most By Zeke Jennings | Managing Editor Sue Bowler is among the most dedicated, passionate and knowledgeable people in the balloon industry. The United Kingdom native’s career started in 1990 with a small home-delivery company. She’s since gone on to work for Conwin and Pioneer, become a Certified Balloon Artist and won countless awards. Through personal instruction and as a blogger, Bowler has… » Read moreFifty balloon artists gather in Richmond to honor dying friend with a massive twist
Fifty balloon artists descended upon Richmond, Virginia, to help a fellow artist and friend make her final twist something extraordinary. Deb Fellman, 54, battling Stage 4 endometrial cancer, inspired the group to create a 20,000-balloon sculpture in a Richmond mall over the weekend as her final gift to the city. Fellman’s story was beautifully captured by Julie Zauzmer of the Washington Post. Zauzmer detailed how Fellman's history and how she left her job as a compliance… » Read moreAre latex balloons really biodegradable? Australian retailer conducting its own experiment
Are latex balloons really biodegradable? An Australian party retailer is conducting its own experiment to find out firsthand. The Party’s Here, a brick-and-mortar and online party supply retailer based in Padstow, is documenting the decomposition process of several latex balloons through blogs on its website. “As members of the Pro Environment Balloon Alliance (PEBA), concerned with the protection of the environment and how we can help, we have started conducting our own experiments to see… » Read morePioneer MasterBow’s new IncrediBow Pull Bow ribbons proving to be a hit
Everyone is getting tied up in the excitement of new IncrediBow Pull Bows by Pioneer MasterBow from Qualatex, available in 16-, 20- and 24-inch sizes in six colors. Car dealerships are catching customers’ attention with the iconic 24-inch Red bow to be placed on top of the hood of the new car. Pink bows of all sizes can be seen everywhere from breast cancer awareness events to bachelorette parties and baby showers. Double-sided lamination provides… » Read morePeer Perspective: Sue Bowler, Certified Balloon Artist
Sue Bowler Certified Balloon Artist (CBA), instructor Henley-On-Thames, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom Sue Bowler is among the most dedicated, passionate and knowledgeable people in the balloon industry. The United Kingdom native’s career started in 1990 with a small home-delivery company and it's only grown since then. She’s since gone on to work for Conwin and Pioneer, become a Certified Balloon Artist and won countless awards. Through personal instruction and as a blogger, Bowler has influenced balloon… » Read moreProduct Picks: Balloons
1. Sonic the Hedgehog balloons are moving fast at Rainbow Balloons! 2. Don't be afraid of this friendly face. CTI Industries’ Glow Ghost comes in two sizes — 24 inches for helium or 12 inches air-filled on a stick. 3. Balloon It Yourself! Centerpiece is a new DIY balloon decoration the consumer can assemble and decorate with air-filled balloons. No helium required. Comes in a 36-inch tall size and 24-inch small size. 4. New from CTI… » Read moreHelium experts: Demand for gas will increase 9% over next three years
Canada NewsWire Bruin Point Helium Corp. (the "Company" or "Bruin Point") (TSX Venture: BPX), Mr. Frank Jacobs, CEO, is pleased to provide an overview of the helium industry as well as forecast targets made by industry analysts and experts. Our goal here is to offer a compilation of third-party information for shareholders and potential shareholders. The price of helium has doubled over the past decade (1) and experts predict demand for the gas will continue to grow. According to research firm, Technavio,… » Read moreFoil balloon causes outage that leaves 6,000 without power near Cincinnati
A recent power outage in the Cincinnati area is another reminder why releasing Mylar balloons is a no-no. Cincinnati.com reported on an outage that was caused by a Mylar balloon coming in contact with a power line that left 6,000 people without power in Covington, Kentucky. Earlier this year, The Balloon Council (TBC) started a “Meet Faraday” campaign that is designed to help spread the word on its list of Smart Balloon Practices. Always tying… » Read moreThe Balloon Council announces winners of the #LiftUpSomebody campaign
Thank you to all our balloon friends and businesses that participated in the International Balloon Month 2017 #LiftUpSomebody Campaign! More than 70 companies registered to participate, and the hashtags #LiftUpSomebody and #BeBalloonSmart appeared all over Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, helping to spread the message about the positive power of balloons and Smart Balloon Practices. The goal of the campaign was to inspire people to connect with -- and “lift up” – members of their community… » Read moreFive balloon products cited in dangerous toys report
The U.S. Public Interest Research Group conducted its annual “Trouble in Toyland” report, which cites toys in the market that pose safety hazards to children. CBS News detailed the findings, which featured five balloon products. The report language called out the products for “missing or misleading warnings.” "But US PIRG found a number of balloon-based games on toy store shelves this year with missing or misleading warnings. Five balloon sets were cited in this year's… » Read moreHouse of Representatives passes helium legislation designed to spur private production
H.R. 3279, the Helium Extraction Act, was introduced to the U.S. House of Representatives by Rep. Paul Cook (R-California) in July. Similar legislation, S. 1572, has been introduced in the U.S. Senate by Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-Utah). On Nov. 1, The House brought up and passed H.R. 3279. There was overwhelming support with very little debate. The purpose of these bills is to increase the domestic supply of helium by providing new incentives and new authority for helium… » Read morePioneer acquires Northstar in balloon industry merger
Pioneer Balloon Co. has acquired Northstar Balloons LLC the two companies announced on Oct. 27. The companies will be working with customers for a smooth transfer of business and timelines, Pioneer said in a press release. “We’re excited to be adding Northstar’s products and capabilities to the Pioneer family,” said Ted. A. Vlamis, Pioneer’s longtime president. “They have developed a unique product personality and sharp sense for trends, and their line further strengthens our complete… » Read moreburton + BURTON founder Maxine Burton recognized by University of Georgia
In 2017, Maxine Burton, president and founder of burton + BURTON, was recognized in the University of Georgia, College of Education Insider publication. She obtained her bachelor of science in elementary education and master’s degree in education, but she found her true passion when she left teaching and began working with her husband, Bob Burton, CEO, in the floral industry. Around this time in the early 1980s, Maxine saw the opportunity to capitalize on the… » Read moreCentennial Celebration for Pioneer
Pioneer Balloon Company turns 100 years old in 2017 By Zeke Jennings | ppredit@partypaper.com Pioneer Balloon Company is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year right where it’s always been — at the forefront of the industry. Pioneer’s success stems from innovation, customer service and leadership. That starts at the top with longtime owners Ted and Betty Vlamis, who bought the company Aug. 27, 1979. “It’s a very exciting time for us,” Ted Vlamis said.… » Read moreburton + BURTON celebrates 35th anniversary with largest Ballooniversity to date
(Click on photo for a gallery) In conjunction with burton + BURTON's 35th anniversary, the company celebrated with Ballooniversity in Athens, Georgia, from Aug. 9-12, 2017. The theme was Sunset Safari. Ballooniversity is a world-class celebration that only happens every five years, and 2017 was the largest yet. Decorators’ Workshop is two days of hands-on training for décor that is showcased Saturday night. The following two days is Ballooniversity educational classes that allow attendees to learn from top balloon, floral,… » Read moreUse balloons to #LiftUpSomebody this fall during International Balloon Month
Spread smiles and goodwill this Fall by taking the #LiftUpSomebody challenge during International Balloon Month this September. The Balloon Council sponsors the #LiftUpSomebody campaign to inspire people to use balloons to lift up someone in their community who could use a smile or a special “thank you.” Then, people are asked to spread the joy by posting a photo of the person receiving the balloons on the BalloonsLiftUp social media sites using the hashtag #LiftUpSomebody.… » Read morePeer Perspective: Tiffany Morrisett, CTI Industries
Tiffany Morrisett Project Manager, CTI Industries Barrington, Illinois As a big fan of art and a painter in her own right, Tiffany Morrisett takes an artistic approach when creating a balloon column. Her approach is to put balloons in unconventional positions and then let them guide her. PPR: How long have you been with CTI? I have been with CTI Industries for just over two years. When I was looking into the company, CTI seemed… » Read moreCalifornia governor: Balloon law ‘not the solution’
California Gov. Jerry Brown feels stronger balloon restrictions are not the answer. On July 31, Brown vetoed a California Assembly bill that would have made releasing foil balloons — or Mylar — into the air a criminal act, reported the Sacramento Bee. Assemblyman Bill Quirk, D-Hayward, the author of the bill, also introduced a bill during the 2015-16 congressional session that would have outlawed the sale or distribution of any balloon filled with helium. That bill never… » Read moreburton + BURTON’s Ballooniversity coming in August
Hop aboard for an adventure you’ll never forget! burton + BURTON® presents Sunset Safari Ballooniversity 2017! Join friends old and new at one of the country’s longest-running balloon conventions/seminars. Located amongst the rolling hills of Athens, Georgia, where Southern Hospitality meets an energizing music and arts scene; Ballooniversity® is the pinnacle of balloon and floral education! This world-class celebration only happens every five years so don’t miss your chance to learn from top industry leaders and celebrity… » Read moreHelium Extraction Act introduced to U.S. House of Representatives
The proposed Helium Extraction Act of 2017 took a step last week as it was introduced to the U.S. House of Representatives, reported the Allentown Morning Call. The act, which was introduced by California Rep. Paul Cook (R), would add two dozen words to the nearly century-old Mineral Leasing Act. Helium distributors hope the amendment will encourage domestic helium production by loosening federal land leasing requirements. An executive of one of those helium producers and distributors,… » Read moreReaders react to proposed balloon ban efforts in California, Massachusetts
Last year, a bill was introduced in the California state assembly that would have banned the sale or distribution of helium-filled balloons due to the reported high number of power outages caused by foil balloons. The bill never reached the assembly floor for a full vote, as it was declined by committees. A proposed bill currently in the Massachusetts House (Bill H.2136) would ban the sale of helium-filled balloons in that state. The release of… » Read moreAssociated Press highlights clash between balloon industry and environmentalists
A recent article by the Associated Press’ Bruce Shipkowski detailed the ongoing fight between the balloon industry and environmentalists who say released balloons are a hazard to wildlife and power lines. “When hands release helium-filled balloons and send them into the sky, they’re doing more than marking a wedding, graduation or death. They’re also stirring the pot in a clash between the balloon industry and environmentalists seeking to deflate a tradition they say harms wildlife,”… » Read moreburton + BURTON adds balloon artist Edward Munoz to education team
burton + BURTON has announced the addition of Edward Muñoz to its education team. Taking on the role of Education Balloon Specialist and Visual Designer, Edward will use his creative talents to teach burton + BURTON customers and employees about balloon décor and balloon art as well as working with the visual team. Ballooniversity returning to Athens In celebration of the 35th anniversary of burton + BURTON, Ballooniversity is returning to Athens this August. This year’s… » Read moreNew Jersey state senator looking to ban release of helium-filled balloons
There is currently a bill in the New Jersey state senate that would criminalize the outdoor release of helium-filled balloons. The bill (S3177) was introduced in May by Sen. Jim Whelan, D-Atlantic, and would make the release of balloons filled with gas lighter than air punishable with up to a $500 fine. The bill grants exceptions for balloons released for scientific or meteorological purposes and hot air balloons. The Balloon Council (TBC) — a nationwide collection… » Read moreMassachusetts looking to pop balloon sales
The Massachusetts state legislature is the latest looking to crack down on balloons. If passed, a proposed state house bill would ban the distribution or sale of any balloon filled with gas lighter than air. House Bill No. 2136 was introduced by Rep. Sarah K. Peake (D-Provincetown) earlier this year and is currently in committees. It is unknown when a vote will take place. The Balloon Council (TBC) — a national collection of balloon retailers,… » Read moreBalloonify Your First Birthday Party
A first birthday is a momentous occasion. It’s the first time in your life the party is all about you. Because of this, parents have begun making their children’s first birthday parties more and more elaborate. Social media sites like Pinterest have empowered DIY designers to create and share their birthday party designs. If you own a party store, you have inevitably seen an increase in requests for extravagant first birthday decor supplies. If… » Read moreQ the lights with Qualatex’s new LED balloons
By Matt Cerre | Special to Party & Paper Retailer In order to be a successful party-store owner, you must understand and stay ahead of party trends. Two current trends to watch are glow parties and lavish first-birthday parties. Balloons are a wonderful option for customers looking to take their party decor to the next level. Qualatex has new products that will make sure your customers’ parties are top-notch. Glow and black light… » Read moreThe Balloon Council hosting Smart Balloon Practices awareness event at California state capitol
The Balloon Council is proud to announce, and invite you to participate in, the nationwide launch of the revitalized Smart Balloon Practices Education Campaign, and the introduction of our new SpokesBalloon "Faraday." The Education Action Day event will be at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 30 on the grounds of the California State Capitol Building (Area 22), 1315 10th St., Sacramento, California. Faraday will meet and take photos with legislators, the press and the public. The… » Read more
Best of Balloon Recipes
A few of our most popular balloon recipes from the past few years. Follow the links below to download. Listed from left to right in the image above. Monkey Buddy It's a Girly-Girl Sparkling Birthday Tower Balloon Dog Birthday For our full archive of balloon recipes, click here.Becoming a Certified Balloon Artist
Breaking down Qualatex's CBA program and what it could mean for you By Peter Mussatto | Special to Party & Paper Retailer There’s an old proverb from Chinese philosopher Laozi that says, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” The Qualatex Balloon Network (QBN) and Certified Balloon Artist (CBA) programs are a great way to begin your journey. Some of the major benefits of becoming a CBA include: Value. Add value… » Read moreGeorgia Gov. Nathan Deal proclaims September Balloon Month
Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal has issued a proclamation declaring September as Balloon Month. Maxine Burton, president and founder, and Bob Burton, CEO, spearheaded the initiative to coincide with this month’s International Balloon Month. International Balloon Month seeks to raise awareness of the joy of balloons as well as to spotlight the economic impact the multi-billion dollar balloon industry has on the state of Georgia and the world. This marks the sixth year in a row… » Read moreValentine’s Day Balloons
Click on picture to view entire gallery. From September 2016 issue.Party Line: Balloon ban avoided, for now
Last month, I wrote about California Assembly Bill 2709, which would have banned the distribution of foil balloons in that state if passed. The previous sentence is in past tense because the bill was voted down by the assembly’s appropriations committee before it ever got to the floor for a full assembly vote. AB 2709 went the way of hundreds of other pieces of proposed legislation in the California Assembly — 448 others, to be exact,… » Read moreProposed bill banning foil balloons in California voted down
The proposed law that would have banned the sale of foil balloons in California is dead before a full assembly vote could even take place. California assembly bill 2709, which would have banned the distribution of foil balloons starting in 2018, has been was voted down by the California Appropriations Committee on Friday, May 27, the Balloon Council (TBC) posted on its Facebook page and through an email blast. Assembly Member Bill Quirk (D-Hayward) authored… » Read moreParty Line: A Sinking Feeling
What would happen to your business if you could no longer sell foil balloons? That’s a scenario California retailers are facing, as there is a bill currently in the state assembly that, if passed, will ban the distribution of such balloons. The reason California lawmakers want to ban selling foil balloons is because they can cause power outages if they come into contact with power lines. Two major electricity distributors cited more than 1,300 outages… » Read moreWorld Balloon Convention 2016 draws professionals, artists from around the world
Photo Gallery The recent World Balloon Convention truly was an international affair, as it drew more than 900 delegates from 58 countries to New Orleans for the eye-popping celebration of balloons. Staged every other year by Pioneer Balloon Co., this year’s event took place April 6-10 at the Hilton Riverside overlooking the Mississippi River. Attendees converged on the Crescent City to share ideas, learn new balloon techniques and, most importantly, to reinvigorate their passion for… » Read moreCalifornia lawmaker wants to ban foil balloons
Bill currently in state assembly would prohibit distribution by 2018 By Zeke Jennings | ppredit@partypaper.com A bill currently in the California Assembly would ban the sale of foil balloons in that state if passed into law. Assembly Bill 2709 would prohibit the sale of “metallic balloons after 2018,” stated Assembly Member Bill Quirk (20th-Hayward), the bill’s author, on his official website. “This will lead to a reduction in power outages resulting from the release of the balloons,” Quirk… » Read moreTank Talk: Helium distributor addresses industry
Helium supplier addresses state of turbulent industry By Zeke Jennings | ppredit@partypaper.com The words “helium shortage” are all too familiar to balloon retailers. Although some stabilization has occurred the past couple of years, availability and cost are still concerns going forward. The Helium Stewardship Act of 2013 was designed to boost market competition by deregulating the price of helium sold from the National Helium Reserve to private companies by implementing an auction system instead. The… » Read more