What type of balloon artist do I need for my event?
So, you're planning a special event, maybe a birthday party or wedding reception, and you want to incorporate balloons in some way. In our this and our next two blogs, we'll cover the different types, including balloon modeller, balloon decorator and the emerging art of deco-twisting!
Along the way, we'll try to help you understand the different skills involved and give you some pointers to help you decide what type of balloon artist would best suit your special event or celebration.
How to choose?
If you didn't realize there are different types of balloon artist, then you are not alone, as most people don't.
The type of artist you need will very much depend upon what you want them to do and, broadly, this will fall into two categories: balloon modelling or balloon decor.
In this blog, we're going to look in more detail at the balloon modeller.
Hiring a balloon modeller
It really doesn't help that there are so many terms to describe this form of balloon art, from balloon modeller, to balloon twister, balloon sculptor, and even, balloon bender.
Broadly speaking, a balloon modeller creates balloon models, often known as 'balloon animals', from the long, specialist modelling balloons or 'entertainer' balloons. A balloon modeller tends to perform live, interacting with guests at an event or with an audience whilst creating balloon models. The balloon modeller is a popular addition to the entertainment for parties, wedding receptions, corporate events, fetes and festivals.
Skill level
Some balloon artists specialize in balloon modelling and have taken this art form to a high standard. These artists are likely to be members of professional associations, such as The Balloon Artistes' Guild, a UK-based membership organization of balloon modellers from across the globe whose aim is to promote professional standards and encourage members to take their art to ever higher levels.
It is not uncommon for other entertainers, including clowns, magicians, stilt walkers and children's entertainers, to include balloon modelling in the list of entertainment they are able to offer.
All balloon modellers tend to begin by learning how to make a simple one-balloon dog. Some are happy to stay at this level, whilst others are eager to push the boundaries and achieve ever more impressive designs.
How to select a balloon modeller
When considering hiring a balloon modeller, it's important to think about the audience for your event and what they are likely to find most fascinating.
In our experience, the more detailed the balloon models are, the more fascinated people are to watch them being made - and this holds true for both children and adults.
To help you select the ideal balloon modeller for your event, we've come up with a handy checklist of things to look out for and questions to ask to make sure you get someone with the right level of skill, experience and professionalism.
About the author
Melanie Allen is a balloon artist and the owner of Balloon Artworks, the Derbyshire-based balloon business specializing in high-quality balloon modelling and balloon decoration for parties, weddings and corporate events.
