Bubble Bash Foam Parties for All - Kori Pelikan

In this episode of Discovering Grayslake, host David Woll sits down with Kori Pelikan, founder of Bubble Bash—a unique local business bringing foam and bubble party magic to families, schools, and events across Northeast Illinois and Southeast Wisconsin.

Corey shares how a simple birthday party for her daughter sparked the idea for a business that now brings joy to communities all summer long. From the excitement of foam-filled fun to her commitment to safety, inclusivity, and family-friendly entertainment, Corey opens up about what makes Bubble Bash more than just a party—it’s a movement of smiles, laughter, and local love.

Tune in to hear about Corey’s journey, her deep ties to Grayslake, and how she’s turning special moments into unforgettable memories—one bubble at a time.

Certainly! Here is your article with the names changed to David Woll and Kori Pelikan, keeping the same format, content, and context:

Bringing Joy to Grayslake: The Story and Secrets Behind Bubble Bash Foam Parties

By David Woll, Host of Discovering Grayslake

Grayslake is a town that thrives on community, creativity, and a little bit of hometown magic. In this episode of Discovering Grayslake, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Kori Pelikan, owner of Bubble Bash—a business that’s redefining how we celebrate, connect, and create memories in Northeast Illinois and Southeast Wisconsin. Bubble Bash specializes in foam and bubble parties, bringing laughter and excitement to backyards, parks, and community events.

Whether you’re a parent planning a birthday, a community organizer, or a fellow entrepreneur, Kori’s journey and insights offer a treasure trove of actionable advice and inspiration. Let’s dive deep into the main themes and expert tips from our conversation, so you can bring a little more joy—and a lot more bubbles—into your own corner of the world.

Table of Contents

The Spark: Turning a Fun Idea into a Thriving Business
What Makes Foam Parties So Popular?
Behind the Scenes: How Bubble Bash Operates
Safety First: Creating a Fun and Secure Environment
Building Community: The Power of Local Networks
Expanding the Fun: Beyond Kids’ Parties
Lessons in Entrepreneurship: Balancing Family, Passion, and Business
Actionable Tips for Hosting a Memorable Foam or Bubble Party
The Heart of Grayslake: Kindness, Connection, and Community
How to Book Your Own Bubble Bash Experience

1. The Spark: Turning a Fun Idea into a Thriving Business

Kori Pelikan’s story is a classic example of how a simple, personal need can ignite a business idea. When planning her daughter’s birthday, Kori wanted something unique. She discovered foam machines, bought one, and the party was such a hit that neighbors and friends immediately asked, “Can you do this for us?”

Key Takeaways:
Start with a personal need:** The best business ideas often come from solving your own problems.
Test the waters:** Kori’s first event was a low-risk trial that validated the concept.
Listen to your audience:** Immediate positive feedback from guests signaled a real demand.

Expert Advice:  
If you’re considering starting a business, look for opportunities in your own life. What do you wish existed? What gets people talking and asking for more?

2. What Makes Foam Parties So Popular?

Foam parties aren’t just a passing trend—they’re a sensory, social, and safe way for kids (and adults!) to let loose. Kori notes that the laughter and joy are infectious, and the novelty never seems to wear off.

Why Foam Parties Work:
Universal appeal:** Kids of all ages love the tactile, immersive experience.
Repeat business:** Many families and organizations book Bubble Bash year after year.
Social media gold:** The visual spectacle makes for shareable, memorable photos.

Pro Tip:  
Capture candid moments and share them with your guests. Kori sends photos to families after events, creating lasting memories and organic marketing.

3. Behind the Scenes: How Bubble Bash Operates

Running a foam party business is more than just turning on a machine. Kori’s approach is professional, efficient, and community-focused.

Logistics and Equipment

Foam Cannons:** Kori owns two, allowing her to serve multiple events or larger crowds.
Setup Needs:** Access to water and electricity is essential. Coordination with venues is key.
Duration:** Most parties last about an hour—enough for high-energy fun, then a smooth transition to food or rest.
Weather:** Rain doesn’t stop the party; kids are already getting wet!

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Hypoallergenic Foam:** Safe for kids, pets, and lawns.
Grass Care:** Kori rotates the foam area to prevent lawn damage.
Clean-Up:** The foam dissipates naturally, leaving no mess behind.

Actionable Advice:
Always do a site check before the event to ensure access to utilities.
Communicate clearly with hosts about what’s needed for setup and teardown.
Invest in quality, safe foam solutions from reputable suppliers.

4. Safety First: Creating a Fun and Secure Environment

Safety is at the heart of every Bubble Bash event. Kori’s background as a teacher shines through in her clear, consistent rules and her ability to manage groups of excited kids.

Core Safety Rules

No running or sliding:** Prevents slips and falls.
No diving or cannonballing:** The foam isn’t deep—remind kids it’s not a pool!
No sitting under the foam:** Ensures visibility and prevents accidental bumps.

Implementation

Rules Stand:** Kori sets up a visible sign at public events.
Active Supervision:** She keeps a close eye on the crowd and gently reminds kids as needed.
Inclusive Fun:** Even grandparents have joined in—one memorable guest navigated the foam with her walker!

Expert Insight:  
Safety doesn’t have to kill the fun. Set expectations early, use positive language, and model the behavior you want to see.

5. Building Community: The Power of Local Networks

Bubble Bash’s success is rooted in community connections. Kori leverages local mom groups, Facebook communities, and word-of-mouth to grow her business.

Strategies for Community Engagement

Join local groups:** Participate in online forums and neighborhood networks.
Collaborate, don’t compete:** Kori often refers clients to other foam party businesses when she’s booked, fostering goodwill.
Support local events:** Bubble Bash is a fixture at Grayslake’s Battle of the Bands, summer kickoffs, and more.

Pro Tip:  
Don’t underestimate the power of grassroots marketing. Authentic relationships and community involvement build trust and loyalty.

6. Expanding the Fun: Beyond Kids’ Parties

While Bubble Bash is best known for children’s events, Kori is open to new markets.

Adult and Teen Events

Glow-in-the-dark foam:** Black lights and colored foam create a nightclub vibe.
College and community events:** There’s untapped potential for older audiences.
Rebranding:** Kori is considering a separate identity to appeal to non-kid markets.

Actionable Advice:
Survey your audience to gauge interest in new offerings.
Experiment with themed events (e.g., “Foam Olympics” fundraisers).
Adjust your branding and messaging to match the target demographic.

7. Lessons in Entrepreneurship: Balancing Family, Passion, and Business

Kori’s journey is a testament to the power of reinvention. After 20 years as a teacher, she pivoted to entrepreneurship during the pandemic, seeking flexibility and joy.

Key Lessons

Follow your happiness:** Don’t let fear of judgment hold you back.
Seasonal balance:** Bubble Bash is full-time from May to October, allowing Kori to “hibernate” and recharge in the off-season.
Family first:** Kori proudly identifies as a mom above all, structuring her business around her children’s needs.

Expert Insight:  
Entrepreneurship is about designing a life that fits your values. Don’t be afraid to pivot, and keep your options open for future opportunities.

8. Actionable Tips for Hosting a Memorable Foam or Bubble Party

Ready to bring the Bubble Bash experience to your next event? Here’s how to make it unforgettable:

Planning and Preparation

Book early:** Summer weekends fill up fast.
Choose the right location:** Flat, grassy areas work best; ensure access to water and power.
Communicate with your host:** Share setup needs and safety rules in advance.

During the Event

Set clear rules:** Post them visibly and review with guests.
Capture the moment:** Take candid photos and share them with families.
Rotate the foam area:** Protect your lawn and keep the fun moving.

After the Party

Share your experience:** Post photos on social media and tag Bubble Bash.
Give feedback:** Let Kori know what worked and what could be improved.
Spread the word:** Word-of-mouth is the best marketing!

9. The Heart of Grayslake: Kindness, Connection, and Community

At the end of our conversation, I shared a reminder that resonates with the spirit of Grayslake: you never know what someone else is going through. A simple act of kindness—a smile, a compliment, holding the door—can make all the difference.

Let’s keep Grayslake a place where:
Neighbors support neighbors.
Local businesses lift each other up.
Every child (and adult!) gets a chance to play, laugh, and belong.

10. How to Book Your Own Bubble Bash Experience

Ready to add some bubbly fun to your next event? Here’s how to

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