5 Things That Annoy Me About the Balloon Business

As someone who’s been in the balloon industry for a while, I’ve seen a lot - the good, the bad, and the frustrating. While balloons are a source of joy and celebration, there are a few things that frustrate me about the balloon business. Here are five of the most annoying things I’ve noticed over the years:

1. New Decorators Spreading Misinformation

One of the most frustrating things I encounter is new decorators sharing incorrect or incomplete information. The balloon industry is a mix of creativity and technical skill, and it takes time to understand how to make balloons last, how to create safe structures, and how to execute professional designs. However, when newer decorators give advice without fully grasping the technicalities, it can mislead others and hurt the overall reputation of the industry. We’ve all been there as beginners, but misinformation can cause real issues - whether it’s about balloon materials, safety, or design practices.

2. Egos in the Industry

Ego can be a huge issue in any creative field, but in the balloon business, it can be especially damaging. Some people in the industry act as if they know it all, which creates unnecessary competition, tension, and even a lack of collaboration. Balloons are about bringing people together and creating fun experiences. We should be supporting each other, learning from one another, and pushing the boundaries of creativity, not letting inflated egos get in the way.

3. How It Changed the Way I Look at the Industry

When I first started in the balloon business, I was excited by the endless creative possibilities and the joy that balloons could bring to any occasion. Over time, however, I started to see some aspects of the business that were less about artistry and more about quick profit. Some people view balloons simply as a money grab rather than as a craft. This shift in focus made me question the industry’s true values and how we can balance business with creativity.

4. Money Grab Mentalities

The balloon business can be incredibly profitable, but it’s also a business that requires skill, dedication, and a love for what you do. Unfortunately, some individuals approach it solely as a way to make quick money. This “money grab” mentality often leads to cutting corners on quality, underpricing services, or neglecting customer care. When profits become the only focus, the passion and creativity that should define the balloon business take a backseat. It's important to maintain a balance between running a profitable business and providing a great service with top-quality products.

5. New People Teaching Too Soon

While it's fantastic to see excitement and passion for teaching within the balloon community, there’s a trend of new decorators who have only been in the business for a short period of time before starting to offer classes and workshops. While enthusiasm is important, teaching requires a deep level of experience and knowledge. It takes time to master the intricacies of balloon design, safety, and techniques. It can be frustrating to see people who haven’t yet fully developed their skills positioning themselves as “experts” too soon, potentially passing on incomplete or inaccurate information to others.

The balloon industry is full of opportunity, creativity, and joy, but like any field, it has its fair share of annoyances. While these things can be frustrating, I believe they also present an opportunity for us to improve, grow, and make the balloon business a better place for everyone involved. Let’s work together to spread the right information, stay humble, and focus on our craft rather than the quick fixes or fast money.