Things to Consider While buying Balloons for Party | Lifehack

When planning a party, buying balloons is an essential part of the decorations. But with so many different types and colors of balloons available, it can be difficult to know which ones to choose. In this blog post, we will discuss some things to consider while buying balloons for a party. We will also provide tips on how to select the right type of balloon for your event. So read on to learn more!

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Size of the Balloon

The size of the balloon is an important factor to consider while buying balloons for a party. The larger the balloon, the more air it can hold, which means it will be able to stay afloat for longer. If you're planning on using the balloons as part of a decoration, then you'll want to make sure they're big enough to be noticeable, but not so large that they'll be difficult to manage. You should also keep in mind that larger balloons will be more expensive than smaller ones. If you're on a budget, then you may want to choose a smaller size. Ultimately, the decision of what size balloon to buy will come down to your personal preferences and the needs of your event.

Shape of the Balloon

While you may not think about the shape of the balloon when buying balloons for a party, it can actually be quite important. Depending on the event, you may want to choose a balloon that is round, oval, heart-shaped, or even shaped like a star. Of course, you will also want to take into account the size of the balloon. For example, if you are buying balloons for a child's birthday party, you'll probably want to choose smaller balloons. On the other hand, if you are buying balloons for an adult birthday party or another type of event, you may want to choose larger balloons. No matter what shape or size you choose, make sure to buy enough balloons so that everyone at the party can have one!

Material of the Balloon

There are many factors to consider when purchasing balloons for a party. The most important factor is the material of the balloon. Latex balloons are the most popular type of balloon, and they come in a variety of colors and sizes. They are also very affordable. Mylar balloons are a bit more expensive, but they are much more durable and can be reused multiple times. If you are planning on using helium, make sure to get helium-grade mylar balloons, as regular mylar balloons will not float. Another factor to keep in mind is the size of the balloon. If you want your guests to be able to take home the balloon as a party favor, make sure to get smaller balloons. Larger balloons can be used as decorations, but they will need to be tethered down so that they don't float away. Finally, make sure to buy enough balloons to cover your party area. A good rule of thumb is two or three per person. With these guidelines in mind, you'll be sure to choose the perfect balloons for your next party!

Color of the Balloon

When planning a party, it is important to consider the colors of the balloons you will use. Different colors can create different moods, so it is important to choose wisely. For example, red is a bold color that can create an energetic atmosphere, while blue is more calming and serene. Yellow is perfect for a cheerful celebration, while green is ideal for a more relaxed gathering. With so many options available, it is easy to find the perfect shade to set the tone for your event. So when you are planning your next party, be sure to keep the color of your balloons in mind. It will make all the difference in creating the perfect atmosphere for your guests.

Design of the Balloon

When you buy birthday balloons, there are many factors to consider in terms of design. The most important factor is the intended purpose of the balloon. For example, if the balloon is meant to be used as part of a decoration, then it should be chosen for its color and pattern. If the balloon is meant to be used as a toy or prop, then it should be chosen for its size and shape. In addition, the material of the balloon is also an important consideration. Latex balloons are more durable than Mylar balloons and can last longer, but Mylar balloons are often more visually appealing. Ultimately, the best balloon for a party will be one that is well-suited to the party's theme and that meets the needs of the guest list.

The Price

There are many factors to consider when purchasing happy birthday balloons. One of the most important considerations is the price of the balloons. It is important to compare prices from different vendors before making a purchase. Another factor to consider is the size and shape of the balloon. Some people prefer larger balloons, while others prefer smaller ones. It is also important to decide whether you want plain balloons or ones with designs on them. Once you have decided on these factors, you can start shopping around for the best deal on balloons. By taking the time to compare prices and options, you can ensure that you get the best possible value for your money.

That is a great question, and one we often see asked in social media forums.  Indeed, where is the best place?  And how do you define “best”?  Fastest? Best price? Best quality?  Best selection? So many questions.

Customers Order Last Minute

If you’re starting a new business doing balloon decorations, you already know how important it is to get balloons in your hands fast and that don’t pop, and come in the right colors.  So often, customers call at the last minute.  Do they think you have a huge inventory in a giant warehouse?  I don’t blame them for thinking that, since Amazon has conditioned the world into thinking we can buy anything with one click and it arrives the next day or two.  Sometimes on the same day.  And if you don’t like it, or it comes broken, you simply return it for a new one or for a full refund. Easy peasy.

So what is a balloon artist to do?  Let’s talk it through.

Benefits of Ordering Balloons on Amazon

Amazon is an option, of course. I will start here since many people buy just about everything from Amazon, it’s only logical that they would buy their balloons and supplies there too.  The pros of buying on Amazon is of course selection.  Balloons from all over the world are at your fingertips. Price is another reason to shop Amazon, as they are known for their very competitive prices.  And with Prime, who can beat free delivery?

Why Quality of Balloons is Important

So let’s look at the downsides.  First is quality.  If you have installed balloons only to have them start popping immediately, you know how important good balloons are.  You’ve learned that they are not all created equal.  You have learned how your reputation can be destroyed if balloons are popping. 

So why do balloons pop?  One reason is the quality of the balloon itself.  To be clear, I am talking only about latex balloon(th,ar,de)s, not foil (mylar), plastic or other types, only latex here.  Some people think balloons are made of plastic, stretchy plastic, but they are not.  Latex is actually a natural substance.  It’s the sap from rubber trees grown in tropical climates.  Like maple syrup from maple trees. 

Think of balloons in two grades - DIY grade and Decorator grade.  The common stuff and the good stuff.  A DIY grade balloon is one you can buy at a big box store like Walmart or Target, or even the Dollar Store.  They look the same, inflate mostly the same, but will feel thinner, may have a funny smell to them, and break more easily.  They are often made with plastic fillers to bring the cost down. 

A Decorator grade balloon, on the other hand, is primarily made of latex.  There aren’t fillers added to bring the cost down and causing the balloons to be weaker.  I say primarily because there are pigments and chemicals added to get the beautiful colors, as well as mica for certain sheens, and other chemicals in trace amounts to ensure elasticity and shelf life (more on that later). But for the most part, Decorator balloons are made of latex. 

Balloon professionals spend extra (sometimes double or triple what Amazon sells them for) for their latex balloons for important reasons.  One is performance.  When you have a balloon job requiring thousands of balloons, and the balloons have to stay inflated for many hours or even several days, you can’t afford to have balloons popping or leaking out slowly.  The balloon manufacturers that specialize in Decorator grade balloons have strict quality control measures in place, testing balloons for consistent inflation, color, and other performance measures.  We think the extra we pay is definitely worth it.  It is our reputation after all.

You Want Balloons to be a Consistent Color

Never thought about colors being consistent? If you have ever bought several skeins of yarn to make a blanket, you know how important it is to buy them from the same dye lot.  Sunshine yellow can vary from dye lot to dye lot.  Imagine if you had to ensure all your yellow balloons came from the same run to ensure consistent color throughout your party.  Unless you are buying by the case, it’s unlikely that will happen.  Especially if you’re having to buy bags from several sources to get enough for your party.    An no, Amazon is not “one source”.

You Want Balloons That are Freshly Made

When balloons are manufactured and bagged, there is a label with a barcode and numbers as well as the color and size of the balloon on that label.  The major Decorator balloon manufacturers include a date code or date of manufacture on that label, so when you buy balloons, you know if they were made a month ago or 10 years ago.  Balloons actually have a shelf life. Remember when I said they are made from latex?  Over time, latex breaks down.  It actually matters how you store them and that you are intentional about always using up your old stock first to ensure your inventory is being rotated and kept fresh.

When you buy balloons off Amazon, do they arrive in a clear plastic bag with nothing printed on the bag?  That’s a problem.  You could be buying balloons that were made years and years ago.

You Want Balloons That Don’t Stink

Have you noticed a gassy smell coming from balloons you’ve ordered from Amazon?  Yeah, that isn’t good.  Balloons are not supposed to smell like that.  Who knows how or where they were made, or what chemicals are in them to make them smell so badly.  I personally would not want to touch them with bare hands, let alone inflate them with my mouth.  Ew.

Great Time are exported all over the world and different industries with quality first. Our belief is to provide our customers with more and better high value-added products. Let's create a better future together.

I had a friend who bought a balloon kit from Amazon.  When it arrived, it didn’t come with a hand pump to inflate them.  She called me up, embarrassed that she didn’t order from me to begin with, and begged me to help her out.  Because she was my friend, I said yes.  When I opened up the unmarked, clear plastic bag of balloons, I was immediately hit with a strong, gassy smell.  It filled my balloon studio.  It lingered for a few days. Whatever was on those balloons made my cuticles bleed.  The only times my cuticles would bleed from doing balloons was when I had to tie thousands of individual balloons.  There was less than 200 balloons in her kit. 

I shared my experience with my balloon decorator colleagues so they could decide for themselves if they wanted to help a customer out with an Amazon balloon kit like I did.

So Where Do I Buy Balloons?

That is the question.  Like any other industry, the Balloon Industry has manufacturers and distributors. Distributors buy the balloons in huge quantities from the manufacturers.  The distributors know how to properly store and ship the balloons to keep the quality at its best.  Did you know balloons don’t like to be stored in hot, humid places?  That speeds up the latex breaking down.  Sure, you may have to pay for shipping.  Sure, the choices won’t be as broad as Amazon.  But, more important than selection and free shipping is quality of product. You know the balloons being sold at the distributor came directly from the manufacturers.  You know they are will have the date codes on them so you know how fresh they are.  You know they are being stored properly to maintain freshness. 

Sure, you pay extra for that, but what is your reputation worth?

Where do I find Balloon Distributors?

I don’t recommend googling. I do recommend visiting top balloon manufacturer’s websites and looking there for distributors.  Here are some links to get you started.  The distributors may need proof that you are in business, so be prepared for that.  I recommend you develop good relationships with 3 or 4 distributors in case one is out of stock of what you need, another can help you out.  Always treat them with kindly and with respect; they can be your biggest ally when you need balloons and supplies expedited, or immediate help if there is anything wrong with your order.

https://anagramballoons.com/find-anagram/

https://ballooniausa.com/blogs/news/find-a-distributor

https://gemarusa.com/united-states/

https://kalisanballoon.com/our-distributors/

https://us.qualatex.com/en-us/purchase-qualatex-balloons/qualatex-balloon-network-distributors/

https://en.sempertex.com/pages/global-distributors

https://tuftexballoons.com/distributors

Step Up Your Game

I hope this expands your thinking on where you get your balloons, and how sourcing them can make you break your business, and your reputation.  As a Balloon Professional, using professional grade balloons as well as professional supplies and decorator equipment is an important part of being in business for yourself.  The distributors can supply you with almost everything you need to improve the quality of what you sell to your customers.

Rachel Porter is a business coach and very experienced balloon decor business owner. She offers her services through MyBizBrain.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Where Is The Best Place To Buy Balloons?

  The best location to buy balloons merges various considerations: quality, cost, and variety. While many individuals default to Amazon for its convenience, those in the know, especially professionals in the balloon industry, lean towards specialized distributors connected to established manufacturers. These distributors guarantee balloons that are stored correctly, clearly dated for freshness, and crafted from superior latex material. Although purchasing from these distributors might be slightly more expensive, the assurance of quality, longevity, and vibrant color far outweighs the initial price difference.

• What are the best balloons for balloon art?

  Balloon art demands the best materials for optimal results. The favored choice for this craft is decorator-grade latex balloons. Distinct from the typical balloons one might find at big box stores, these are predominantly crafted from natural latex, devoid of cheap fillers. This guarantees a robust and consistent balloon, ideal for intricate designs. Their unparalleled elasticity and wide range of colors render them indispensable for balloon artists, ensuring creations that not only look stunning but also last longer.

• What is a balloon decorator called?

  Typically, a balloon decorator is termed a "balloon artist" or "balloon designer." These professionals possess a unique set of skills that enable them to transform simple latex balloons into intricate designs, sculptures, and displays. Their work often graces events, parties, and celebrations, adding a touch of magic and whimsy. Balloon artists continuously train and update their skills, ensuring they remain at the forefront of design trends and techniques in the ever-evolving world of balloon artistry.

• What balloons do the professionals use?

  Professional balloon decorators are discerning about their materials, consistently choosing decorator-grade latex balloons. These balloons stand out for their unmatched color consistency, resilience, and performance metrics. Unlike their inferior counterparts, professional-grade balloons are free from unpleasant odors and offer a higher success rate in terms of inflation and longevity. It's not just about aesthetics for balloon professionals; using top-quality balloons protects their reputation, ensuring client satisfaction and enabling them to create masterpieces that leave lasting impressions.

How To Improve Sales

Growing balloon decor sales is an important way to keep you engaged as an owner in your business. Rachel Porter of Biz Brain provides one on one business coaching if you are looking for a trusted advisor. She founded and operated a very successful decor business for over 20 years.

If you need a one-stop-shop for all your marketing and sales process needs, have a look at Balloon Suite plans and choose one that will help you grow your sales.