372. Why Cheap Tape Could Be Costing You Clients

If you’ve ever wondered what actually happens at a balloon convention—or whether it’s worth the investment—this episode is for you. I recorded this recap live from the Sempertex International Balloon Convention while the event was still in full swing. I share what the experience was like, how it compares to other conventions, and why I left feeling more energized than ever. I talk about: The new Sempertex color launch and matching decor Why I loved the preset class schedules What made the instructor lineup so unique Vendor highlights (including latex dog toys!) The MBP (Master Balloon Professional) certification process, now available in the U.S. How it felt to be truly welcomed by the Sempertex team Whether you're brand new to balloon decor or a seasoned pro, this episode will help you decide if attending this convention is right for you. In the UGlu Hotline, hear what one listener wishes she had purchased earlier to relieve some of the work at installations.   Unlock three free bonus episodes!    RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats (get 50% off your 1st year)  Other sponsors & resources: Havin' A Party Wholesale (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) Courtney Lynette Creative Co.  UGlu by Pro Tapes (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST)  DM @thebrightballoon on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! Balloon Boss Mastermind & Summit  - - - - On the Bright Side (Apple) On the Bright Side (Patreon) 50 Ideas for Email Marketing | Join the Bright Balloon email list  @thebrightballoon  The Bright Balloon on YouTube 

If you’ve ever had a balloon installation fall (or had to refund a client because it didn’t hold), this episode is for you. In this conversation with Steve and Nicole from ProTapes, we dive deep into the adhesives balloon artists rely on—and how using the wrong tape could be costing you money, time, and clients. We cover: Why ProTapes products are different from big-box tape The right tape for rigging, balloon adhesion, and framework How ProTapes has found a home in the balloon industry  The many other industries they make product for You’ll walk away with a better understanding of how to use the right tools to build stronger, more professional installs—every single time. In the UGlu Hotline, hear how I use a leaf blower in my business!   Unlock three free bonus episodes!    RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats (get 50% off your 1st year)  Other sponsors & resources: Havin' A Party Wholesale (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) Courtney Lynette Creative Co.  UGlu by Pro Tapes (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST)  DM @thebrightballoon on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! Balloon Boss Mastermind & Summit  - - - - On the Bright Side (Apple) On the Bright Side (Patreon) 50 Ideas for Email Marketing | Join the Bright Balloon email list  @thebrightballoon  The Bright Balloon on YouTube 

If your balloon business feels chaotic, it might be because you’re missing one key ingredient: systems. In this episode, I sit down with balloon artist and business coach Danielle, aka Coach Danni D, to talk about how to simplify your business with smart, repeatable processes that save time, reduce stress, and create freedom. We discuss: The PACE framework for building systems that actually work Why you need systems before you hire help How to document your process (even if it’s messy at first) The core systems every balloon pro should have Why syncing your business calendar with your personal life is non-negotiable How personal growth impacts business success Danielle’s insights are exactly what balloon professionals need to shift from burnout to balance. In the UGlu Hotline, hear one listener’s great tip for tracking and ordering balloon inventory.   Unlock three free bonus episodes!    RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats (get 50% off your 1st year)  @nolapartyboutique  coachdannid.com Other sponsors & resources: Havin' A Party Wholesale (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) Courtney Lynette Creative Co.  UGlu by Pro Tapes (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST)  DM @thebrightballoon on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! Balloon Boss Mastermind & Summit  - - - - On the Bright Side (Apple) On the Bright Side (Patreon) 50 Ideas for Email Marketing | Join the Bright Balloon email list  @thebrightballoon  The Bright Balloon on YouTube 

Are you stuck in the day-to-day chaos of running your balloon business—constantly reacting, never really moving forward? In this episode of, I sit down with business coach Andrea Liebross, who helps creative entrepreneurs stop spinning their wheels and start thinking like CEOs. Andrea shares strategies for: Shifting from a reactive to a CEO mindset Using her TRUST process to take massive action Becoming a “big thinker” Setting weekly and daily “Big 3” lists to stay focused on what matters Tapping into your future you Knowing when it’s time to hire a coach Whether you're overwhelmed, underbooked, or just unsure of your next move, Andrea’s advice will help you reclaim your confidence. In the UGlu Hotline, hear why one listener puts everything in her shop on wheels!   Unlock three free bonus episodes!    RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats (get 50% off your 1st year)  andreaslinks.com Other sponsors & resources: Havin' A Party Wholesale (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) Courtney Lynette Creative Co.  UGlu by Pro Tapes (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST)  DM @thebrightballoon on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! Balloon Boss Mastermind & Summit  - - - - On the Bright Side (Apple) On the Bright Side (Patreon) 50 Ideas for Email Marketing | Join the Bright Balloon email list  @thebrightballoon  The Bright Balloon on YouTube 

Brittany and Patrick of Main Street Balloons turned a $300 side hustle into a full-time balloon business—and they did it while navigating new parenthood and while also working in their healthcare careers. In this episode, they share their inspiring journey, how they manage their roles as a couple in business, and what it really takes to grow a profitable balloon company without burning out. You’ll learn: Why they finally stopped talking themselves out of starting How they’ve grown the business with zero debt The way they divide work between admin and installs How social media (and a little Disney magic) fuels their brand What they did to prepare for maternity leave Why working in healthcare actually helps them run a balloon business This candid conversation is full of insight, humor, and practical advice—especially for balloon artists who are trying to grow while balancing family life. In the UGlu Hotline, hear what one listener wishes he had implemented earlier in his business.    Unlock three free bonus episodes!    RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats (get 50% off your 1st year)  @mainstreetballoons  Other sponsors & resources: Havin' A Party Wholesale (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) Gemar  UGlu by Pro Tapes (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST)  DM @thebrightballoon on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! Balloon Boss Mastermind & Summit  - - - - On the Bright Side (Apple) On the Bright Side (Patreon) 50 Ideas for Email Marketing | Join the Bright Balloon email list  @thebrightballoon  The Bright Balloon on YouTube 

In this episode, I chat with Blenda, the powerhouse behind Balloon Construction Company that's scaled to multiple employees, multiple buildings, and massive goals — all without burning out. Blenda shares how she transitioned from inflating balloons herself to leading a full team — while keeping the creative vision and client experience intact. Whether you're just starting out or already booked every weekend, this episode breaks down the exact roles you’ll need to hire (and in what order) to finally step out of the day-to-day. You’ll Learn: The first role Blenda hired — and why she went full-time after her employee did How to structure a sales team that sells without you The system her production manager uses to run events like clockwork Creative strategies for scheduling installations and strike teams How Blenda keeps her team motivated (and insured — hello, dental!) Why she believes entrepreneurs should hire earlier — and better If you’re ready to run your balloon business like a business — not a side hustle — this episode is for you. In the UGlu Hotline, hear one listener's tip for helium negotiation.   Unlock three free bonus episodes!    RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats (get 50% off your 1st year)  @balloonconstruction iheartballoons.com Other sponsors & resources: Havin' A Party Wholesale (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) Gemar  UGlu by Pro Tapes (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST)  DM @thebrightballoon on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! Balloon Boss Mastermind & Summit  - - - - On the Bright Side (Apple) On the Bright Side (Patreon) 50 Ideas for Email Marketing | Join the Bright Balloon email list  @thebrightballoon  The Bright Balloon on YouTube 

What does it really take to work with celebrities, luxury brands, and global companies as a balloon professional? It’s not just about the balloons. In this episode, I sit down with Sean Edwards — “The Balloon Guy” of Los Angeles — to uncover the customer service secrets and creative mindset that have helped him land jobs with Porsche, Soho House, Hollywood premieres, and more. You’ll hear: The role of communication and flexibility in winning high-end clients How Sean turned small-town balloon twisting into a big-city balloon decor business Lessons learned from installs gone wrong (and how to fix them on the fly) Why great customer service is your most powerful marketing tool Whether you’re looking to break into luxury events or simply serve your clients better, Sean’s story will inspire you to raise the bar in your own business. In the UGlu Hotline, hear a tip about branding and labeling your rental items for piece of mind.   Unlock three free bonus episodes!    RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats (get 50% off your 1st year)  @balloonguyla  Other sponsors & resources: Havin' A Party Wholesale (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) Gemar  Stay Booked  UGlu by Pro Tapes (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST)  DM @thebrightballoon on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! Balloon Boss Mastermind & Summit  - - - - On the Bright Side (Apple) On the Bright Side (Patreon) 50 Ideas for Email Marketing | Join the Bright Balloon email list  @thebrightballoon  The Bright Balloon on YouTube

This interview with Carolina is jam-packed with not just corporate sales strategies, but also actionable tips and resources for how you can up your corporate sales game. Carolina has it mastered… so much so that she no longer takes private / social parties and only works with corporate!  I was so motivated to seek out more corporate relationships after this conversation and I think you’ll feel the same way. We covered: Niching down and the “risk” How to get started and let it be messy Carolina’s secret sauce Conquering self-limiting beliefs Job titles and industries to look for What types of decor her corporate clients are choosing Then Carolina shared her exciting new offer to help us get more corporate - and even government - jobs. Don’t miss her mindset tip at the end and how she helped me find a positive affirmation for myself! In the UGlu Hotline, hear why black sand bags are the preferred choice for one of our listeners.   Unlock three free bonus episodes!    RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats (get 50% off your 1st year)  Balloon Element  thecorporatecashflow.com Ep. 302 - Business credit | Sheila of The Balloon Squad  Other sponsors & resources: Havin' A Party Wholesale (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) Gemar  Stay Booked  UGlu by Pro Tapes (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST)  DM @thebrightballoon on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! Balloon Boss Mastermind & Summit  - - - - On the Bright Side (Apple) On the Bright Side (Patreon) 50 Ideas for Email Marketing | Join the Bright Balloon email list  @thebrightballoon  The Bright Balloon on YouTube 

In this episode I’m chatting with Natalie of Illiano Events and she’s dishing out tons of ideas and advice for us to network in a way that feels organic and natural. Networking is not something that comes natural to me so I was so happy to have her on and hear her ideas. Natalie shares the specific ways this approach has grown her business, the time commitment involved and so much more. She offers great advice for working your way up to commitments like the Chamber of Commerce, for example, as well as conversation starters that help you and your business get involved.  I was sure to ask about donations, and when or if there’s ever a conflict of interest through participating in these groups, and Natalie shared helpful pointers on those things as well. We go on to cover ways that you can utilize your own personal network, or even start your own group, too! Huge thanks to Natalie for sharing so many tips that make networking (now also known as friend-making) feel so much more approachable!  In the UGlu Hotline, hear a tip that Dante of Dream Factory Balloons shared at Balloon Boss Summit 2024 that made a big difference for me in my huge Balloon Adventure installation. Unlock three free bonus episodes!    RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats (get 50% off your 1st year)  @illianoevents  Other sponsors & resources: Havin' A Party Wholesale (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) Stay Booked  UGlu by Pro Tapes (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST)  DM @thebrightballoon on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! Balloon Boss Mastermind & Summit  - - - - On the Bright Side (Apple) On the Bright Side (Patreon) 50 Ideas for Email Marketing | Join the Bright Balloon email list  Courses  @thebrightballoon  The Bright Balloon on YouTube 

In our final interview recorded live at The Tuftex Experience, I’m chatting with Michelle and Sean of Lush Balloons about growth, efficiency and taking care of clients. We kick off by talking about the efficiencies they’ve incorporated into their business in order to reduce their number of staff and get higher profit margins… inflation and production, material organization, limiting offers and more. Then I always have to ask how people are able to come to conferences while their business stays home, and Sean and Michelle share how they’ve trained their employees to handle production and deliveries while they’re away. They also share some nuggets about the class they taught at Tuftex - Cracking the Corporate Code; and we chat about how you just never know whether a small birthday bouquet could turn into a huge corporate referral. It was really neat to hear their story about market timing, standout designs, social media presence and client appreciation - thanks to them both!         In the UGlu Hotline, hear a tip for using White-Out on your marquee letters.   Unlock three free bonus episodes!    RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats (get 50% off your 1st year)  @lushballoons  Other sponsors & resources: Havin' A Party Wholesale (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST)  Save $50 on FLOAT 2026 registration with code SARA Stay Booked  UGlu by Pro Tapes (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST)  DM @thebrightballoon on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! Balloon Boss Mastermind & Summit  - - - - On the Bright Side (Apple) On the Bright Side (Patreon) 50 Ideas for Email Marketing | Join the Bright Balloon email list  Courses  @thebrightballoon  The Bright Balloon on YouTube