Sue Bowler: The Balloon Expert

  With its elegant lines, the Flat-Pack technique is very different from the usual cluster method that is often used to make Columns and Arches. I enjoy using this style for Columns and Arches and have used it a number of times for different events.  If you have never tried it, let me show you how!   Here are two Columns that I created for an awards ceremony. Incorporating the 9" Stars was easy and very effective; I simply added them where the front facing balloon would usually go. Here is a Halloween column design that I made recently to display the fabulous Qualatex® 50" Glitzy & Glam Bat! The whole design is air-filled, which makes it even more appealing. Halloween Bat Column by Sue Bowler, CBA. To use this technique to create an Arch, you simply change the size of the balloon that follows the inner line to create the curve. To create the Arch below, I inflated the outer balloons to 4.5" and the inner balloons to 3.5 inches, and the small balloons are all inflat...

If I had to name one latex balloon that exudes the 'WOW' factor every time, it would definitely be Qualatex SuperAgate balloons! These triple dipped balloons are available in both 11" and 3' sizes and are the perfect accent balloon for all different themes and occasions.  I love working with these incredibly trendy balloons! Each balloon has its own unique pattern from the dipping process, creating wonderful rippling swirls that delivers a high value and eye catching design!  Pink Violet Rainbow Super Agate 11" 91543 3' 63758 Chelsea Flower Show, London, England saw its first ever balloon inspired design in 2017. This creative installation showcased Qualatex® latex balloons, included Pink Violet Rainbow SuperAgates, and greenery in an organic style. The design was named the "Chelsea Jungle." This fabulous installation was the collaboration between two artists, garden designer Catherine Chenery of Catherine Chenery Garden Designs , and balloon stylist...

Running a balloon company or being a balloon artist may not seem risky at first. However, in case things don't go as planned, remember that it's your livelihood or business that will be affected. Rest assured, much of it boils down to common sense. Taking care of health and safety is just one aspect of effectively managing a business. In the UK, the law applies to all businesses, large or small. If you’re self-employed or an employer then you are responsible for the health and safety of your business. The law is in place to make sure you have a safe working environment and cut down the risk of you, your staff (if you have any) or your customers getting ill or injured.  You must consider and manage any risks both where you work or that may come in connection with what you do.  This is a straightforward process known as ‘risk assessment.' It involves thinking about what you do in your business that could harm people – you, your staff (if you have them) or your customers – ...