The Bright Balloon
Welcome to The Bright Balloon, a podcast where Sara Meyer shares bright ideas for your balloon business! I want you to make more money, eliminate stress and learn along with me as we grow our creative businesses together! Welcome to The Bright Balloon
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358. Organically connecting | Natalie of Illiano Events
09/02/2025
358. Organically connecting | Natalie of Illiano Events
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. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats () Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (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! - - - - (Apple) (Patreon) | Join the Bright Balloon email list
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356. Living the dream | Michelle and Sean of Lush Balloons
08/26/2025
356. Living the dream | Michelle and Sean of Lush Balloons
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. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats () Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) Save $50 on FLOAT 2026 registration with code SARA (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! - - - - (Apple) (Patreon) | Join the Bright Balloon email list
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354. Just try it! | Patricia of StickUp Artistry and Design
08/19/2025
354. Just try it! | Patricia of StickUp Artistry and Design
Get ready for some positive, infectious energy from this episode’s guest, Patricia of StickUp Artistry and Design! I had the opportunity to sit down with her live at the Tuftex Experience and she’s sharing how she believes adding some deco-twisted elements in your decor can really impress your clients and make you stand out in a crowded market. She walks us through her decision-making process for incorporating deco-twisting into her offers and shares how there’s room for everyone’s style and preferences in the industry. She’s also a big proponent of being willing to try anything because you just never know when you’re going to need to use a particular skill or method. Lastly, Patricia shares her thoughts on how and why it’s important to avoid burnout and practice community over competition. In the UGlu Hotline, I’m sharing my little “insurance policy” tip about leaving some extra supplies behind. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats () Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) Save $50 on FLOAT 2026 registration with code SARA (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! - - - - (Apple) (Patreon) | Join the Bright Balloon email list
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352. Behind the scenes at Tuftex | Meg of Tuftex
08/12/2025
352. Behind the scenes at Tuftex | Meg of Tuftex
In this interview recorded live at the Tuftex Experience, I get to hear from Meg some of the really cool behind the scenes info about their products, the event and more. I always love how transparent Tuftex is and this interview is no different! Meg actually ran a balloon decor business of her own at one point, and you’ll hear why her other background experiences make her the right fit for her role at Tuftex. Then we chat a little bit about: Their Canadian factory How they evaluate the Tuftex Experience What it’s been liking getting into the twisting side of balloons And how some balloon color names are literally part of the family! It was really fun to hear how they plan the event and how it’s already evolved and changed in its second edition. In the UGlu Hotline, I’m sharing my foil storage system that works with my organizational type. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats () Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) Save $50 on FLOAT 2026 registration with code SARA (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! - - - - (Apple) (Patreon) | Join the Bright Balloon email list
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350. Building a million dollar business | Chris of Balloon Masters
08/05/2025
350. Building a million dollar business | Chris of Balloon Masters
If you want to hear what it’s like to grow to $1M in sales, this episode is for you! I interviewed Chris of Balloon Masters at the Tuftex Experience and he’s sharing so many golden nuggets about what he and his wife Marlene did to grow their business over the last several decades. I really appreciate Chris’ generosity of all the knowledge he shares with our industry, and respect how humble he is in the process. This interview is definitely one of my favorites! We talk about: How their business started and the techniques used years ago His #1 tip for finding a location once you move your business out of your home What to look for in employees, when to hire them and how to best use their time Charging appropriately for your time while making the most of it Working smart and hard Investments to take your business to the next level Systems and marketing strategies We finish up with a series of new get-to-know-you questions, and I’m guessing you’ll feel the same after listening… but I was buzzing with info and ideas after this conversation! In the UGlu Hotline, I’m sharing a tip about keeping your installation kits organized and fully stocked through the use of laminated cards. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats () Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) Save $50 on FLOAT 2026 registration with code SARA (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! - - - - (Apple) (Patreon) | Join the Bright Balloon email list
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348. Negotiating tips and tricks | Nikki of Violet Pineapple Balloons
07/29/2025
348. Negotiating tips and tricks | Nikki of Violet Pineapple Balloons
If you struggle with negotiating, or even the idea of negotiating, this episode is for you! Nikki of Violet Pineapple Balloons comes on the show to share some really helpful tips about negotiation, specifically for a rental space. We’ll hear about what she was looking for in a space, the listing price, what she’s actually paying for it and all the things to think about as part of your negotiation. I was also curious about her lease length and the strategy she shared to negotiate that was brilliant! Nikki is going to give you a whole new way to think about not just negotiation but also leasing in general. She now has an opportunity to move into a larger space so we get to hear about her active negotiation and willpower to wait for what she wants. This conversation really opened my eyes to some negotiating strategies I didn’t know existed. Thanks to Nikki for sharing! In the UGlu Hotline, hear how I’m using pants hangers for my favorite organizational upgrade of the past few years - something I picked up from Bri of Elevated Impressions. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats () Curated Month by: Kalisan Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (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! - - - - (Apple) (Patreon) | Join the Bright Balloon email list
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346. Decorating for Hallmark movies | Jenny of Simply Jenny Designs
07/22/2025
346. Decorating for Hallmark movies | Jenny of Simply Jenny Designs
This interview was a total treat! We’ll get to hear from Jenny of Simply Jenny Designs all about her experience decorating for Hallmark movies, including how she landed the first job, what she’s learned since and what it’s like to be on set! She shares with us how quickly into running her business that she got her first movie set opportunity, the booking and decor details as well as how much air time her balloons got. We’ll also hear about the other movies she’s decorated for, as well as her latest opportunity for a movie airing this Christmas! Of course we also talk about her general business growth as well, plus how she juggles balloons with her full-time job and some of her favorite marketing tactics. It was so nice meeting Jenny and hearing about her unique experiences! Then in the UGlu Hotline, hear my favorite way to frame square arches. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats () Curated Month by: Kalisan Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (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! - - - - (Apple) (Patreon) | Join the Bright Balloon email list
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344. Small town, big business | Tricia of Noree Events
07/15/2025
344. Small town, big business | Tricia of Noree Events
In this conversation, Tricia of Noree Events shares her journey of building a successful balloon decor business in a small community. She discusses the challenges and advantages of operating in a small town, the importance of community support and the strategies she employs to network and grow her business. She emphasizes the significance of personal connections, the role of local businesses in fostering a supportive environment for entrepreneurs and the importance of staying true to herself. Before we wrap up Tricia shares her business expansion goals with us as well. I find her situation so relatable, her personality so friendly, and I think so many in our balloon industry will, too! Then in the UGlu Hotline, hear how one listener uses hooks to attach her foils. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats () Curated Month by: Kalisan Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (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! - - - - (Apple) (Patreon) | Join the Bright Balloon email list
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342. Shiny object syndrome
07/08/2025
342. Shiny object syndrome
In this episode, I’m walking you through the exact steps I take to help determine whether my constant business ideas are worth pursuing. I’ll share some of the most recent things I’ve considered, what I almost immediately scrapped and what is still a possibility. I’m talking about: Gut checks on passion and ease Profitability Time, energy and bandwidth Business compatibility Then I’ll share a few actual tactics I use if an idea passes all of those marks: soft launching, asking fellow balloon artists to borrow content and getting insight from industry contacts. I wrap up with a bit of “homework” that you can do to further explore your ideas, or maybe get past them. Then in the UGlu Hotline, hear about an item that one listener wishes she bought sooner. >> RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats () Curated Month by: Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (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! - - - - (Apple) (Patreon) | Join the Bright Balloon email list
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340. Balloons as fine art | DJ of Balloons in Bold
07/01/2025
340. Balloons as fine art | DJ of Balloons in Bold
We’re excited to have Kalisan curating another month of episodes for us, and to kick things off this time is DJ of Balloons in Bold. He is a fine artist who uses balloons as his medium, so it was cool to get yet another take on balloons as a form of art! He had worked as a balloon twister before turning to fine art as a form of emotional expression. Little did he know how much it would take off and get noticed in the way it did. Before he knew it he was the feature of a gallery show and by using a medium that is usually associated with fun and joy to display darker imagery, it really grabbed people’s attention. We’ll hear about his strategy for making the balloons last during gallery prep and throughout the show, including how he found a way to put balloon dogs into a pattern and what products he used. DJ also shares more about what influences his art and describes several of his show exhibits. I appreciated him being willing to share his story! And in the UGlu Hotline, hear about one of my own favorite inflators! RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats () Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (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! - - - - (Apple) (Patreon) | Join the Bright Balloon email list
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338. Nightmare installations | Rachel of Evansville Balloon Company
06/24/2025
338. Nightmare installations | Rachel of Evansville Balloon Company
If you’ve ever forgotten about a job, left your U-Haul door open when driving or gotten robbed at an installation… you’re going to relate to what Rachel shares in this episode! She and I talk about some of our worst installations to date and, more importantly, how we handled them and kept moving forward. Even though the topic feels negative, Rachel and I couldn’t help but laugh our way through this episode as we commiserate in things that only balloon professionals would understand. Before we dive into the hilarity, Rachel offers some tips for those managing their full-time jobs alongside their balloon business, including customer management, time management, boundaries and product offerings. Then we get into it. Hear about her forgotten job and the absolute scramble to make it happen… tons of broken bases on her first 5-digit job… balloon bags flying across the highway… and stolen bags with hundreds of dollars of equipment inside. I chime in with my related stories, too, and we wrap up by sharing some final thoughts about how to turn crazy things like these into learning opportunities. I’m so grateful to Rachel for being willing to come on the show to talk about the kinds of mistakes that we all make… or almost certainly will make. In the UGlu Hotline, hear about one of my favorite inventory tips to date! RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats () Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (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! - - - - (Apple) (Patreon) | Join the Bright Balloon email list
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336. High-end clients | Chris of Balloon Design Studio
06/17/2025
336. High-end clients | Chris of Balloon Design Studio
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like working with and attracting high-end clients, this episode is for you! Chris of Balloon Design Studio shares with us how he goes after the big jobs, his pricing and more. Before we get into those details, hear about his first balloon arch job he did in the sixth grade! He continued running his business through college, then eventually knew it was time to dive into his dream of doing balloons full-time. Now, he loves tackling new design and installation challenges with mostly every job he does in New York City for his high-end clients. We’ll hear about his: networking approach branding plans marketing strategy why he wants to be known for having the highest prices when he hires extra hands and how / when he actually locks in these clients. Then in the UGlu Hotline, hear why one listener suggests having everything in your shop on wheels. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats () Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (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! - - - - (Apple) (Patreon) | Join the Bright Balloon email list
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334. Rebranding | Tracy of Joyful Party Co.
06/10/2025
334. Rebranding | Tracy of Joyful Party Co.
In this episode I’m learning from Tracy of Joyful Party Co. (formerly From Me 2 You Creations) about what it’s like to rebrand after being in business for almost 20 years. She shares with us everything that was involved in the process, including the financial impact it had. Learn about the services her original business started with, how her initial run with balloons was stopped short, how eventually her balloon business was propelled forward and how many aspects are now part of Joyful Party Co. Then we dig into the specifics of the rebrand. We’ll hear about what compelled her to go through the process, how it was stalled and how eventually she knew she had to do it. She also shares an awesome AI prompt that helped her fully develop Joyful Party Co. Tracy goes on to mention how the rebrand impacted her banking, taxes, website and domains, social media, physical assets like shirts and signs, logins with distributors, etc… and how it was all worth it in the end. And in the UGlu Hotline, hear one listener’s tip on what they wish they would have known earlier. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats () - Family business and rebranding | Delloons Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (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! - - - - (Apple) (Patreon) | Join the Bright Balloon email list
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332. How I hit my sales goal 6 months early
06/03/2025
332. How I hit my sales goal 6 months early
In this episode I’m sharing how I track my numbers so that I know what’s coming in and how I’m making my way towards my financial goal. Hear what keeps me focused, how I reverse-engineer all of my numbers to make a realistic plan and how I honed in on the exact type of customer I need to focus on. Then I’ll talk through some of the main pieces of getting customers to rebook, what I’ve pulled back from automation and the surprising insight I’ve gotten thanks to my new tracking system. I wrap up by sharing how I move my money so that I’m able to count down to my goal with excitement. This strategy eliminates so much financial stress for me and I’m so passionate about it! I hope that these tips and insights will help you set yourself up for success, too. In the UGlu Hotline, hear about how one listener saves on her helium. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats () Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) Call into the UGlu Hotline to ask a question or leave advice! (262) 221-8514 - - - - (Apple) (Patreon) | Join the Bright Balloon email list
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330. Simple ways to add value | Noeli of So Pretty Balloons
05/27/2025
330. Simple ways to add value | Noeli of So Pretty Balloons
If you struggle with standing out in a saturated market, this episode is for you! Our curated sponsor HiFloat chose Noeli of So Pretty Balloons to come on the show and talk about how she’s found a way to stand out in the crowded and very talented Miami market. Before we get into those specifics, we’ll hear how she followed signals for what direction to take in her business. I find it so admirable how she’s let her business be fluid around her different seasons of life! Then, hear how distorted flowers were the first element that drew attention to her work (despite her avoidance of learning the technique initially). Now, she’s known for the delicate and elegant embellishments that make So Pretty Balloons, and we’ll hear what those key elements are. In the UGlu Hotline, hear how one listener earns business by interacting with other local businesses on social media. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats () Curated Month by: Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) Call into the UGlu Hotline to ask a question or leave advice! (262) 221-8514 - - - - | Join the Bright Balloon email list
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328. Staying Lean | Elisabeth of Pop of Color Balloon Design
05/20/2025
328. Staying Lean | Elisabeth of Pop of Color Balloon Design
In another curated episode by HiFloat, we have another returning guest - Elisabeth of Pop of Color Balloon Design. Her and I are kindred spirits in the way that we want to build our businesses around our lives (and not the other way around). So in this episode, we’re chatting about putting limits on our businesses as well as the advantages and disadvantages that come along with. We talk about how we keep our businesses lean… including overhead expenses, vehicles and hiring help; and the freedom available to us because of those choices. We also discuss the viability of ever selling our businesses, the FOMO that creeps in and the recurring comparison trap that we’re all always struggling with. Another similarity we found is that if we ever find ourselves angry about a piece of decor we have to set up… it simply means we didn’t charge enough! This conversation was such a good reminder and refresher for me to stay the course, and I hope it’ll inspire you just as much! And in the UGlu Hotline, hear about how one listener hides her binder clips and clamps. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats () Curated Month by: | - Double-stuffing, revisited | Elizabeth of Pop of Color Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) Call into the UGlu Hotline to ask a question or leave advice! (262) 221-8514 - - - - | Join the Bright Balloon email list
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326. Shifting strategies | Jam of Garden Place Balloons
05/13/2025
326. Shifting strategies | Jam of Garden Place Balloons
In another curated episode by HiFloat, we’re reconnecting with Jam of Garden Place Balloons to hear how he’s pivoted away from the huge, luxurious installs and into deliveries… which have become the bread and butter of his business! He’s still got local balloon friends who have been and continue to be a major support for him when the big jobs do come up, but we’ll hear more about this intentional adjustment he’s made based on the latest demand, as well as the mindset shift he needed to go along with. Jam was kind enough to share specifics about what’s working and what’s not working with his new strategy - including actual product offerings, e-commerce effectiveness, pickups vs. deliveries, boundaries and what the new strategy has meant for his lifestyle. Then of course we hear how the HiFloat products are essential to his business, too. I picked up quite a few little nuggets that I’m planning to integrate into my business after chatting with Jam and I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did! In the UGlu Hotline, hear about how one listener makes water weights. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats () Curated Month by: Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) Call into the UGlu Hotline to ask a question or leave advice! (262) 221-8514 - - - - | Join the Bright Balloon email list
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324. Dos and Don’ts of HiFloat & HiShine | Phillip of HiFloat
05/06/2025
324. Dos and Don’ts of HiFloat & HiShine | Phillip of HiFloat
In our first curated episode by HiFloat, we get to hear from the COO himself, Phillip… who is also a chemist! He shares with us some tips and tricks about using HiFloat and HiShine which I definitely didn’t know before having this conversation. Learn how humidity, proper inflation size, transport bags and even 60/40 valves impact HiFloat performance. And for HiShine, Phillip has two big tips for using it properly, plus offers considerations for when to use the trigger sprayer versus the aerosol version. I also asked him to talk about the products’ safety for us when we use it. Before we get into all of that, though, we’ll learn more about the HiFloat story, which is really neat, as well as some of the changes that have occurred in their 40-year history… including formula changes, the addition of HiShine and external impacts like the pandemic, manufacturer bankruptcy, helium pricing and Party City closing its doors. It was a fascinating and fun conversation and I look forward to more guests hand-selected by HiFloat! In the UGlu Hotline, hear a tip for protecting any marquees you might be renting. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats () Curated Month by: Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) Call into the UGlu Hotline to ask a question or leave advice! (262) 221-8514 - - - - | Join the Bright Balloon email list |
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322. Pricing transparency | Courtney of Courtney Lynette Creative Co.
04/29/2025
322. Pricing transparency | Courtney of Courtney Lynette Creative Co.
I LOVED this interview with returning guest Courtney! We’re talking about pricing transparency and all of the objections and fears that might come with. But that’s not all… we’re also talking about website design, customer behavior and more. It was such a good interview with a bunch of nuggets like: Ways to pre-qualify your leads Why brand shoots matter If e-commerce really works for our industry Planning for a website build How many pages you really need How FAQ sections help The conversation boosted my confidence in some of the ways I operate and I hope it does for you, too! Then in the UGlu Hotline, listen for a tip about utilizing the Profit First method. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats () Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) Call into the UGlu Hotline to ask a question or leave advice! (262) 221-8514 - - - - | Join the Bright Balloon email list |
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320. Balloons at school | Darren of SoCal Balloons
04/22/2025
320. Balloons at school | Darren of SoCal Balloons
In another curated episode by Kalisan, I’m reconnecting with Darren of SoCal Balloons and (among lots of other things) learned about a very cool arrangement he’s involved in with some local schools to go in and teach balloon twisting to the kids! Darren twisted his first balloon dog when he was four. You’ll hear how he started his business with his sister, branched off on his own, added decor into the mix and now runs his business while also working another position and being a dad. Of course we also talk about his drive-through videos that have been popular on social media, and we have a fun little tangent about how the idea could be replicated with decor businesses. I ask him the same question that I asked Mauricio in the last episode, too, about how decorators could start to experiment with twisting and he offers some helpful resources. Then we hear more about the program in the schools, including who got him into it, how much refinement it needed before approval and what exactly the program includes. If you’re in his area - know that they’re looking for more twisters! Then in the UGlu Hotline, you’re going to hear a tip about participating in parades. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats () Curated Month by: Kalisan | Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) Call into the UGlu Hotline to ask a question or leave advice! (262) 221-8514 - - - - | Join the Bright Balloon email list |
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318. So many ways to grow | Mauricio of Today's Balloons / Balloons 2 Go
04/15/2025
318. So many ways to grow | Mauricio of Today's Balloons / Balloons 2 Go
Mauricio knows our industry from multiple angles, so I was really happy when Kalisan chose him as one of the guests in their curated month. In this episode, he shares with us where he found help in growing his business, how he made his pivots and more. We’ll hear about his rapid growth as a twister, which included doing some jobs for celebrities in Miami. He also shares a fun story about how balloons can soften up almost anyone… and then a sad story that became part of the reason he expanded into decor. After a big life change and receiving some coaching and mentoring, Mauricio hit the ground running when fully incorporating decor. So much so that he’s become a “sub-distributor”, which we’ll hear all about. Then I ask him for some advice on how decorators might dip their toes into twisting and he shares some practical tips for doing just that. This was such a fun interview with a bunch of good little tips! Over in the UGlu Hotline, we got a tip for water weight replacements! RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats () Curated Month by: | Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) Call into the UGlu Hotline to ask a question or leave advice! (262) 221-8514 - - - - | Join the Bright Balloon email list |
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316. Beating burnout | Katy of Bloom Inflatables
04/08/2025
316. Beating burnout | Katy of Bloom Inflatables
In another curated episode by Kalisan, we get to meet Katy of Bloom Inflatables. She takes us through some of the things that previously led her to burnout and what she’s doing now to stay ahead of it. But before we get into all of that, you’ll hear how an impulse purchase of a bounce house quickly turned into strategy and profitability for her company. She also walks us through the transition away from that bounce house and into balloon decor, partially in thanks to the Kalisan balloons she was introduced to. Then when we move on to chat about the main topic, you’ll hear us discuss things like: Setting boundaries for ourselves during different seasons of life Understanding social media influence versus local brand awareness Giving your business a reset How a business can be built entirely on grab and go options with the right processes Factors that we weigh before saying yes to a job I found a lot of experiences in common with Katy and I’m betting you likely will, too. In the UGlu Hotline, hear a tip about a trusted Amazon balloon vendor. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats () Curated Month by: Kalisan Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) Call into the UGlu Hotline to ask a question or leave advice! (262) 221-8514 - - - - | Join the Bright Balloon email list |
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314. Kalisan Intro | Kirstin of Create and Cherish Events / Kalisan
04/01/2025
314. Kalisan Intro | Kirstin of Create and Cherish Events / Kalisan
Kicking off this curated month by Kalisan is an interview with Kirstin of Create and Cherish Events / Kalisan! I met Kirstin quite a while ago at a Big Balloon Build, so it was so nice to have this opportunity to reconnect with her and hear about how she’s still running her own decor business while supporting the folks at Kalisan as well. We’ll hear how her business scaled and dialed back, as well as how she grew into her role at Kalisan. I asked about her thought process as she considered what the new role would mean for her decorating business, too, and she shared how Kalisan was always supportive of her keeping her own business while working with them. Then we dig into why artists should consider Kalisan. Multiple times in the interview, Kirstin mentions her favorite thing about their balloons, but we’ll also hear more of her thoughts on the different sizes, their shipping practices and colors / prints. Then in the UGlu Hotline, we’ll hear a tip for getting foils to stick to one another. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats () Curated Month by: Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) Call into the UGlu Hotline to ask a question or leave advice! (262) 221-8514 REGISTRATION OPENS TODAY! - - - - | Join the Bright Balloon email list |
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312. B Wise About Your Future | Bri of Elevated Impressions / BWise Consulting
03/25/2025
312. B Wise About Your Future | Bri of Elevated Impressions / BWise Consulting
In this final curated episode by Bri of Elevated Impressions / BWise Consulting, I’m so honored to host her as she announces the launch of her new small business product! I know I’ll be using it for my business and I hope you’ll consider doing the same. We get straight to it and hear about why she’s developed her new product, plus more about her background that has been ingrained within it. It’s centered around very tough situations, so as hard as it is to talk about, I’m so happy that she’s making something like this available to us. You’re going to hear how she’s thought of everything, too. If you’ve discovered some gaps within your business along the way, she’s got more resources readily available and in the works for you. Congrats to Bri, and what a great month it’s been with her and her guests! In the UGlu Hotline, hear how one listener uses rubber bands to save time. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats () Curated Month by: Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) Call into the UGlu Hotline to ask a question or leave advice! (262) 221-8514 - - - - | Join the Bright Balloon email list |
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310. Inquire & Uplift | Bri of Elevated Impressions / BWise Consulting
03/18/2025
310. Inquire & Uplift | Bri of Elevated Impressions / BWise Consulting
In this curated episode by Bri of Elevated Impressions / BWise Consulting, she is answering tons of questions that listeners wrote in with! We’re talking about mistakes, retail, growth, organization and a whole lot more! We end with some rapid-fire questions and rapid-fire answers. Here are some of the highlights: What she’d do differently Pricing transparency & calculations Inventory management Handling the business, instructing & her home life The best investment she’s made in the business How to get large jobs Where she’s teaching next And in the UGlu Hotline, we’ve got a tip for balloon stuffing! RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats () Curated Month by: Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) Call into the UGlu Hotline to ask a question or leave advice! (262) 221-8514 - - - - | Join the Bright Balloon email list |
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308. Elevating the Industry, Together | Bri of Elevated Impressions / BWise Consulting & Jenny of Three Sparrows Balloons
03/11/2025
308. Elevating the Industry, Together | Bri of Elevated Impressions / BWise Consulting & Jenny of Three Sparrows Balloons
In another curated episode by Bri of Elevated Impressions / Be Wise Consulting, we are talking about teamwork and friendship! Let’s face it, sometimes we can get lonely, frustrated and feel isolated in this industry, so these two guests came on to share how they’ve created a support system in one another and how their different personalities prove that opposites really do attract. We’ll hear where they met and how their friendship developed, then Bri shares how Jenny was the first person she went to for advice when she got her initial opportunity to teach. We chat about teaching a lot, in fact, and how well they teach together despite their strong relationships with different manufacturers. Then, before we hear about the list of events these brilliant women are teaching at, Bri, Jenny and I also talk about what types of jobs need extra support from your balloon friends and what those dynamics should and should not include. Lastly, don’t miss the hint they drop at the end about a very special project that they’re working on together to benefit our industry! Then in the UGlu Hotline, hear a nice tip for removing UGlu dashes from your backdrops. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats () Curated Month by: | Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) Call into the UGlu Hotline to ask a question or leave advice! (262) 221-8514 - - - - | Join the Bright Balloon email list |
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306. The Preferred Path | Bri of Elevated Impressions / BWise Consulting & Jamie of Cape Cod Celebrations
03/04/2025
306. The Preferred Path | Bri of Elevated Impressions / BWise Consulting & Jamie of Cape Cod Celebrations
In this first curated episode by Bri of Elevated Impressions / Be Wise Consulting, we hear from her and her friend Jamie about creating mutually beneficial relationships with other vendors in the event industry. It’s an episode full of tips like: How to initiate a connection What kind of traits stand out to event planners Industry research & immersing yourself in your community Requesting tours of local venues Getting other vendors to sell your services Preferred vendor lists & which ones you actually want to be on There is SO much to digest from this conversation and I know there’s something for you to take away from it no matter where you are in your business or what kind of region you live in. You’ll hear Bri and Jamie each give their perspectives on what they would look for in each other’s roles, their preferred payment processes and a couple of clear action items you can implement right away. And in the UGlu Hotline, hear about another very cool way to be involved in your community! RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats () Curated Month by: Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) Call into the UGlu Hotline to ask a question or leave advice! (262) 221-8514 - - - - | Join the Bright Balloon email list |
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304. What’s up at Anagram! | Molly, Kristen and Jill of Anagram
02/25/2025
304. What’s up at Anagram! | Molly, Kristen and Jill of Anagram
I love any time a manufacturer comes on the show to share some insight into what they have planned to help our industry! This episode was recorded live at Fulcrum 2025, and we hear about the new products, new people and new things happening with Anagram! My ears definitely perked up when they mentioned the number of new foil designs and new formats they have coming for us this year… but we’ll also get to hear more about their launch into latex. Learn about what “better together” means for them; how many latex colors are on the way; how they perform with helium, Hi-Float and Hi-Shine; and the size range. Then we wrap up by talking about the kinds of opportunities balloon decorators have with the closing of Party City. Anagram is investing in everything from innovation, to engineering, to industry education and their confidence in their quality is well deserved. And in the UGlu Hotline, hear a tip for getting yourself some video content for social media. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats () Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) Call into the UGlu Hotline to ask a question or leave advice! (262) 221-8514 - - - - | Join the Bright Balloon email list |
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302. Business credit | Sheila of The Balloon Squad
02/18/2025
302. Business credit | Sheila of The Balloon Squad
I knew nothing about business credit before this interview, so if you’re in the same boat - listen in on how you can essentially grow your business using other people’s money! Sheila and I also talk about retail, multiple locations, growth, advertising classic decor and so much more. I’ve met Sheila at Balloon Boss Summit but haven’t been able to attend any of her sessions so I was thrilled to finally have her on the podcast. Hear about how she was inspired to start her business, how quickly it expanded and some of the things that she and The Balloon Squad are exploring now after so much growth. Then she practically knocks my socks off when she shares how her balloon subscription program works! We wrap up by talking about the business credit and you’ll hear why she considers it “good debt”, the cute story that introduced her to the idea, how utilizing business credit is a part of her everyday life and what it’s allowed her to introduce at her Columbia, SC, headquarters… The Business Bestie Retreat! And in the UGlu Hotline, hear a tip for building community over competition. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats () | | Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) Call into the UGlu Hotline to ask a question or leave advice! (262) 221-8514 - - - - | Join the Bright Balloon email list |
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300. Freelance balloons | Jules of Party Perks
02/11/2025
300. Freelance balloons | Jules of Party Perks
If you’ve ever wanted to hire a freelance balloon artist, or be hired as a freelance balloon artist, this episode is for you! I get all the details about how Jules travels and country and helps other balloon businesses while managing her own balloon business, too. We cover everything you need to know about this new perspective of balloon decorating, including details about the kinds of tasks she’s helped with, accommodations, travel, food and how to actually get known as a freelancer. It was so fun to hear about yet another way to make balloons (and your balloon business) work for you and your life! Then in the UGlu Hotline, hear a tip for having your QR code readily available. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats () Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) Call into the UGlu Hotline to ask a question or leave advice! (262) 221-8514 - - - - | Join the Bright Balloon email list |
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