Showing posts with label Chris Adamo. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chris Adamo. Show all posts

Friday, May 5, 2023

Are you Ready for the Corporate Market? Tips for Building a Corporate Client Base as a Small Business Owner

Many Balloon Business Owners start out by offering balloons for birthdays and parties. Over time, we develop our skills and grow in confidence, and now we want take that next step - the corporate market! 

This stage decor was created by Sue Bowler in collaboration with Ali Welsh of Ali Welsh Events for Christmas corporate event.
Each letter stood over 10' tall and was perfect for this DISCO theme party! The room was also filled with one hundred and thirty 3' Silver Confetti Balloons that represented Disco Balls! 



So what is a corporate client?

The term "corporate client" typically refers to a business or organisation that seeks and purchases goods or services from another business or organisation for the purpose of fulfilling their own business needs. It is easy to think that corporate clients are all huge corporations that typically wouldn't hire a balloon decorator for an event. However, this is untrue, as corporate clients come in all types and sizes and can operate in various industries such as finance, healthcare, retail, and more.


In the context of a small balloon decorating business, a corporate client might be a business that wants to decorate their office or host a corporate event, such as a product launch, trade show, or company party. Building relationships with corporate clients can be beneficial for a small business as they can provide regular and potentially large orders, as well as referrals to other businesses in their network.


My Journey into the Corporate World: When I first dipped my toe into the corporate decor world, my initial projects were designing seasonal window displays for a local jewellery store, and creating wedding displays for a bridal shop. For the latter, I collaborated with the owners and they promoted my services in exchange for the decor I created for their shop displays. This proved to be a successful arrangement, as I received regular bookings from brides. As my confidence and portfolio grew, I secured decorating contracts with the local council, designing for all their events and functions, and even worked for a local brewery who hosted regular events for their pub owners and landlords. My list of corporate clients continued to expand. However, I eventually stopped my decorating business to become an industry instructor. A few years on, an old ballooning friend who had started her own events company offered me many incredible opportunities to create decor for various events for her clients, and these fit perfectly into my teaching schedule. This fruitful partnership lasted for years and once again demonstrated the power of collaboration.



Here are some amazing examples of decor that was created for corporate events.


This stunning entrance arch was created by designers: Alexander Solomatin, CBA, Moscow, Russia, Dmitry Novikov, CBA, Moscow, Russia


This Car Showroom Decor was created by Chris Adamo, CBA of the Balloon Crew, Sydney, Australia.

These Striking Balloon Arches are by Dianna Glandon, CBA, of 
Above the Rest Event Designs,  
Knoxville, TN , USA.

Vodafone Store Decor was created by
Chris Adamo, The Balloon Crew, Sydney, Australia

So how can you find corporate clients to work with?

1. Attend networking events and trade shows to connect with potential clients - Start by searching for "Networking Events near here (your location)" on your preferred search engine. You will be surprised at how many organisations hold these events. The meetings can be held in person or remotely through virtual channels. Choose events that are most relevant to you. The cost is usually minimal, and it's an excellent opportunity to connect with other local businesses while participating in discussions on various topics.




2. Utilise social media platforms, such as LinkedIn, to showcase your work and connect with decision-makers in companies.  Fact - Linkedin is the most effective B2B marketing tool, it is a lot more powerful than Facebook and Instagram for reaching the people who matter!

If like me, you do not really use Linkedin, here are some tips for using LinkedIn to connect with other businesses:

  • Optimise your profile: Before you start connecting with other businesses, make sure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date and professional. This will help establish your credibility and make others more likely to accept your connection request.
  • Identify relevant businesses: Use LinkedIn's search function to find businesses that are relevant to your industry or niche. You can search for companies using keywords, industry, location, and other criteria.
  • Personalise your connection request: When sending a connection request, make sure to personalise it and explain why you want to connect. This can help increase the likelihood of your request being accepted.
  • Engage with their content: Once you've connected with other businesses, engage with their content by liking, commenting, and sharing. This can help establish a relationship and increase the chances of them engaging with your content in return.
  • Offer value: If you want to establish a deeper connection with other businesses, offer them something of value. This could be sharing an article or resource that you think would be helpful, or offering to introduce them to someone in your network.
  • Attend industry events: LinkedIn can also be a great tool for finding industry events. This can be a great way to meet other businesses in person and establish a deeper connection.

3. Offer special promotions or discounts to businesses to entice them to try your services. For example you could approach your local car dealership and recommend decor for their showroom for a seasonal event such as Valentine’s Day or Christmas, and you could give them an introductory discount for using your service. Fact - Always think outside of the box when it comes to ‘finding’ your leads, car dealers often use decor to create interest in their showrooms, think of what other businesses could use your decor to enhance their business and products! 



This car showroom St Patrick's Day Decor was created by
Colin & Jeannie Stewart of STEWART's Baskets & Balloons,
 in Ontario, Canada



This car showroom St Patrick's Day Decor was created by 
Colin & Jeannie Stewart of STEWART's Baskets & Balloons,
 in Ontario, Canada

4. Partner with event planners or other businesses in the event industry to expand your network. Building a good relationship with an Event Planner was probably my greatest tool when growing my corporate work. Event planners and other businesses won’t necessarily find you, you will need to find them! Search on Instagram and Linkedin, follow them, like and share their posts. It could be a local hotel or events venue, not necessarily a person, your aim is to make contact without being a stalker! 


5. Create a professional website that highlights your portfolio and services, and make sure it is optimised for search engines.


Here are some tips for creating a professional website that showcases your portfolio and services and is optimised for search engines:


  • Choose a clean and modern design that reflects your style and brand.
  • Use high-quality images and graphics to showcase your work.
  • Clearly list your services and pricing.
  • Include client testimonials to build trust and credibility.
  • Optimise your website for search engines by using keywords that are relevant to your business and industry.
  • Ensure that your website is mobile-friendly and easy to navigate.
  • Make it easy for potential clients to contact you through a contact form or clear call-to-action buttons.
  • Regularly update your website with new content to keep it fresh and engaging.
  • Integrate your social media profiles to increase your online presence.
  • Consider hiring a professional web designer or developer to ensure that your website is of the highest quality.


6. Attend local business events and seminars to meet potential clients and learn about their needs.  - check out and join your local Chamber of Commerce.


7. Send out email newsletters to past clients and potential clients to keep them informed about your business and services. Make sure that you adhere to GDPR rules, you cannot just send out emails to past clients unless you have agreed to be ale to do this. This is generally done through a tick box system in your previous marketing with them.


8. Build relationships with local hotels and event venues to become their go-to balloon decorating business.


9. Collect testimonials and reviews from satisfied clients to use as social proof and to help build your credibility with potential clients - Don’t feel afraid to ask for a testimonial or review from a satisfied customer. If you have a Google profile for your business (Google My Business https://www.google.com/intl/en_uk/business/) then you can send a direct link to your customer, making it easy for them to do there and then! 


https://www.google.com/business/

Remember to tailor your approach to each potential client, taking into consideration their specific needs, budget, and industry. With a little bit of effort and persistence, you can find and attract corporate clients for your small balloon decorating business. Develop good research skills, create a strong professional image and a good network, which is essential for growing your corporate market.


And finally...

  • Growing a corporate client base can be a time-consuming process, unless you have strong connections from the beginning.
  • Remember that every interaction counts, from the way you present yourself to how you communicate with customers.
  • Taking steps in the right direction, no matter how small, can help you achieve your goal.
Good Luck! 

Happy ballooning! 

Sue
Follow me: @suebowler



Tuesday, April 11, 2023

The Wonders of Balloon Arches for Event Design


Arches are a fantastic way to create a certain vibe or ambiance by drawing the eye and introducing colour to an event. They are particularly ideal for outdoor occasions such as sporting events, grand openings, and as indicators to signal where an event is taking place. Indoors, they are frequently used as entrance decor, intending to greet guests and setting the tone for the function. At themed parties, arches make a big splash and usually look great for backdrops and photo opportunities to create memorable moments.

Organic Style Balloon Arch by Anne McGovern, CBA of Elegant Balloons in  Pearl River, New York, USA.

Before beginning a balloon arch project, it is important to determine which style of arch to create. There are two main styles of arch when working with latex balloons: Classic and Organic. 

Classic Balloon Arch by Zoe Adam-Jones, CBA of JAZ Trading, Gold Coast. Australia

Classic Balloon Décor is typically the starting point for most decorators and balloon artists. Classic style balloon Arches are constructed using balloons that have been inflated and sized to a specific dimension These balloons are then added to an arch frame or line to create the arch. 
Classic balloon arches are a popular choice for corporate events due to their versatility and ability to suit a variety of themes and colour schemes. They are a cost-effective way to create a statement piece that are used to highlight an entrance, stage, or photo backdrop. Balloon Arches can be customised to match a company's branding and logo colours, creating a cohesive look and feel throughout the event. They are also a great way to add visual interest to a space without taking up too much floor space. Additionally, balloon arches are easy to set up and take down, making them a convenient option for event planners and organisers.

Fabulous Race Arches by Dave Saker, Balloon.co.uk


Organic décor embodies the beauty of nature through balloon styling. When different sizes of balloons are placed strategically throughout a design, an elegant and cohesive look is achieved, setting the mood for any event space.
It is important to note that organic décor isn't simply a matter of using a variety of different sized balloons. Rather, it requires intentional sizing and arrangement of balloons to create a natural flow while adhering to the principles and elements of design. This ensures that the design maintains rhythm, balance, and harmony. 
An organic balloon arch is the ideal decorative addition for weddings, birthdays, and other festive events. These arches are soft and whimsical in appearance, and they add a touch of charm to any setting. One thing is for sure, organic balloon arches create a stunning backdrop for photographs and are a popular choice for social media posts.

Organic Balloon Arch by Sarah Courtney, Belle Balloons, Melbourne, Australia

Typically, an Arch is freestanding, meaning it can be strategically placed for maximum impact. For a freestanding Arch, heavy base plates and an Arch form are necessary to secure the balloons, whether it's a Classic or Organic Arch.

A lot of balloon companies often design their own Arch frames utilising metal or plastic conduit, while the bases are made from materials like steel, concrete, or other dense substances. This process requires technical expertise to create an Arch that is user-friendly. For indoor Arches, lighter materials can be used, but safety must always be prioritised. Be mindful that in the event of an Arch collapsing and causing damage or injury, you are accountable for any harm it may have caused.

The Aeröpole system was specifically designed for the balloon professional to help them achieve the perfect Arch. The system is flexible, it will perform (move) outside in the same way a helium filled arch would,  and it is not ridged like an arch that is built on a conduit frame.

What Makes the AeroPole System Stand Out?
  • The AeroPole System uses lightweight, flexible poles made of composite fiberglass to create both outdoor and indoor Arches and Columns without the need for helium.
  • Different sizes can be achieved by adding or removing poles, which are so flexible that they bend dramatically in strong winds without breaking.
  • The AeroPole System is the only product that can achieve this level of performance in the market.
  • The base plates of the AeroPole System are 24" squared, weigh 28 pounds each, have raised feet, and a powder-coated finish that gives them a clean and professional look.
  • Each base plate has a center hole for the 6" steel pin to attach, and they are stackable for outdoor jobs on windy days.
  • The combination of the unique base plates and poles allows you to create various sizes and shapes of Arches and Columns ranging from 5' to 15' tall.
  • This system is quick and easy to set up, and is well worth the price. By using an AeroPole System to make a 35' arch, you can save on helium costs in just 2-3 uses.

Black & Gold Embellished Balloon Arch by Avital & Nir Shechter, CBA of Balonir, Israel.

White and Coloured Embellished Balloon Arch by
Avital & Nir Shechter, CBA of Balonir, Israel.

AS a final touch enhance the look and value of your arches by adding extra details.
Mastering the basic principles of creating arches is just the beginning. Elevate your arch designs to new heights by incorporating extra details. These additional features not only enhance the appearance of your arches but also increase their perceived value to potential customers.

If you are looking to design your own special balloon Arch, whether Classic or organic style, check out this fabulous design tool from Balloonpro.co

A must have for any balloon professional, this digital design tool gives you everything you need to create and calculate balloon décor, giving picture perfect digital renders to quote and market your next sale!

This awesome tool will help you to design: Organic Balloon Décor, Arches, Columns, Duplet Square Pack, Alternate Size Pack, Linking Walls, Volume Calculators, and so much more. 

You can test out this tool for 7 days FREE! https://balloonpro.co/


To conclude:

  • Balloon arches are a festive and fun way to add color and excitement to any event.
  • They are perfect for creating a photo backdrop or highlighting a special area of your event space.
  • Balloon arches can be customised to match your event theme or colour scheme.
  • They are great for creating a grand entrance, framing a stage or dance floor, or adding visual interest to a plain wall.
  • Balloon arches can be made in a variety of sizes and shapes, from simple single arches to more complex designs featuring multiple arches and layers.
  • They are a cost-effective way to add a big impact to your event decor.
  • Balloon arches are perfect for birthdays, weddings, baby showers, corporate events, and more.
Happy Ballooning! 

Sue
Follow me @suebowler

Wednesday, February 22, 2023

Old MacDonald had a Farm... NEW, Fun Farm-Themed Qualatex Balloons

I would like to start this post with a little farm barn trivia! Do you know why farm barns are always red?



The practice actually started in the late 18th century with New England farmers applying a protective varnish to barn surfaces. The varnish usually contained some mixture of linseed oil, lime, or iron oxide, which, under the sun, would then turn to the red ochre hue that we have become so familiar with.

Children absolutely adore farm animals, and creating farm theme party decor is a colourful and fun way to appeal to children of all ages! 

Earlier this month, I created a range of window displays to showcase some of the new Qualatex balloons that were launched at the Spring Fair at the NEC Birmingham. When I saw the new Birthday-Farm range I knew exactly what I wanted to make and immediately started designing a Red Barn! 

To design the barn, I used Chris Adamo's Balloon Pro.co Design Tool. If you have never used this tool I strongly recommend that you have a little play using the 7 day free trial. I absolutely love it and use it on a regular basis, it helps me to work out what style of wall that I need to make to ensure that I get the end result I am looking for. This definitely makes it very worth the minimal monthly fee! 



The barn is made using the Alternate Size Pack technique, with my balloons sized at  3" and 4". The Bran is built in columns, and then linked together using the "paperclip and elastic band" method. To give the barn greater stability, I added in two poles and bases and also secured it to the top of the window using 50lb monofilament line just in case someone decided to try and move it - you will be amazed what people will do to get a good photo! 

The window display design was designed around this new 18" Birthday Barn balloon. Look at this balloon and now look at my window display to see the similarities!

18" Birthday Barn
#26549


You will see that in my window display, I have added in other elements such as the mini Pig and Cow sculptures and some of the new 14" Retro Daisies to bring this window to life and to re-create the scene from the balloon as accurately as possible.

Here are all the other new products in this range:

28" CUTE HOLSTEIN COW #26540
14" MINI CUTE HOLSTEIN COW #27311


18" BIRTHDAY HOLSTEIN COW PATTERN
#26553




And don't forget these other great farm theme balloons! 

Holstein Cow
11" White #11633
Another bit of trivia, this is Qualatex's  No 1. selling printed balloon! 


34" Farm Tractor
#16468




30" Playful Pig #16202
14" Playful Pig #41799

32" Hilarious Horse #16210 (Limited Availability)
14" Hilarious Horse #41796

Here are a few more Farm theme ideas! 



Don’t have a cow!
This cow creation makes a big impact!
Designer name: Cam Woody, CBA, Pioneer Balloon Company, Wichita, KS, USA



Mooooove over for birthdays!
Adorable cows and pigs make for a fun birthday!
Designer name: Cam Woody, CBA, Pioneer Balloon Company, Wichita, KS, USA

If you are unsure how to make the Alternate Size Balloon Wall, check out my previous post: Balloon Wall Part 2



Creating something fun and new is always very rewarding! Though I am very familiar with creating balloon walls. this Red Barn presented new challenges for me, especially when creating the sloping roof! 

Happy Ballooning! 
Sue
Follow me @suebowler




Tuesday, April 19, 2022

Out of this World - Space Theme Decor Ideas and Inspiration

One of the biggest trends for theme parties is an out-of-this-world spacetheme, and not just for children! 

The outer space theme offers many ideas and creative opportunities to transform a room into a magical journey through space.

This adorable spaceship will launch your outer space party into the stratosphere!  Designer name: Vadim Shushkanov, CBA, Moscow, Russia

Blastoff! Rocket
This adorable spaceship will launch your outer space party into the stratosphere!
Designer name: Vadim Shushkanov, CBA, Moscow, Russia

If you would like to learn how to make this awesome space rocket, a free step-by-step recipe is available on www.Qualatex.com or click HERE

Welcome guests with cool space-theme signage for the entrance or outside.

Not everyone considers decor outside a venue. Therefore you need to sell the benefits to your clients! 
Let everyone know where to find the fun with cool space-themed signage. For example you can use directional signs and personalise them to point to different areas or a space-themed welcome board set on an easel with the guest of honour’s name and celebration.
 

Photo credit: 

Throw a Space Themed Birthday Party that’s Out of This World

Party Backdrops and Balloon Walls

Nothing can make a bigger or better statement than a Balloon Wall! Perfect for transforming a room and making those Instagram worthy photos! 

The Best Party in the Universe This accent wall is perfect for any spaced-themed occasion. Designer name: Avital and Nir Shechter, CBAs, Balloney Nir, Katsrin, Israel

The Best Party in the Universe

This accent wall is perfect for any spaced-themed occasion.
Designer name: Avital and Nir Shechter, CBAs, Balloney Nir, Katsrin, Israel


A futuristic and a space theme is not just for children's parties. It can be for adult parties too! 

Here is a fabulous balloon installation by Chris Adamo, CBA, from Balloons Online in Sydney, Australia. Chris really knows how to transform a room. These 3' latex balloons with balloon lights really help to set the scene! 


Balloon Decor by Chris Adamo
Balloons Online and The Balloon Crew-Balloons.net.au in Sydney, Australia

These painted balloons are something else and very much out of this world! I really think we need a tutorial on these, Chris 😊

Balloon Decor by Chris Adamo
Balloons Online and The Balloon Crew-Balloons.net.au in Sydney, Australia


How about this elegant 'spacey' centrepiece... 

Nothing But Awesome!
Here’s a perfectly accented centrepiece to compliment your space-theme celebration.
Designer name: Eve Antonello, CBA, Pioneer Balloon Company, Wichita, KS, USA


The space theme does not just translate well to parties, it is also a fabulous theme for many other occasions! 


Adventure Starts Now!
Say congratulations with an outta this world design!
Designer name: Eve Antonello, CBA, Pioneer Balloon Company, Wichita, KS, USA

Here are some more great decor ideas to inspire and impress your clients! All these fantastic images are available online for you to use for your marketing purposes - thank you, Qualatex! Click HERE for a direct link.









I don't know about you, but this has certainly inspired me to create some space theme decor! So if you have designed something fabulous for a space theme party or delivery using Qualatex balloons, we would love to see it! Please post it on the Qualatex Facebook Group  and tag me. I look forward to seeing it! 

Happy Ballooning! 


Sue
Follow me @suebowler