7 Tips For Creating Professional Outdoor Decor
Outdoor balloon decor is not for the faint at heart. The truth is that creating professional outdoor decor adds many elements that you must account for, and there are so many more things that can go wrong compared to creating indoor designs.
But this doesn’t mean you should be scared of making outdoor balloon decorations. It simply means you have to understand the challenges and know how to overcome them. Not to worry, though! Check out our 7 tips for creating professional outdoor decor below.
#1 Avoid Helium Balloons in Centerpieces
One of the biggest no-nos in creating professional outdoor decor is using helium balloon bouquets on outdoor tables. Even the smallest breeze will blow the balloons around and cause their ribbons to tangle.
Another consideration for avoiding helium is that its availability and cost can vary substantially. For example, in 2022 suppliers were avoiding selling their supply to decor companies.
Instead, use an air-filled balloon centerpiece with a stand. These work great with most designs and allow you to combine balloon quads with foils for a gorgeous centerpiece.
#2 Add Wow Factor with Balloon Walls
Does your outdoor party include a photo backdrop? Rather than opt for a traditional design, add some great wow factor by creating an outdoor balloon wall. Your wall should use colors that match the theme of the event.
So, regardless if the party is centered around a tropical theme, shades of pink, or rainbow colors, grab some latex and double-stuffed balloons and make your vision a reality.
#3 Avoid Outdoor Balloon Releases AT ALL COSTS and Consider Drop Alternatives
Whatever you do, don’t organize balloon releases or dops at any outdoor event. Mass balloon releases are illegal in many communities, cities, and states worldwide. They also harm the environment and will attract environmental protection attention that you likely want to avoid at your business.
It is correct that latex balloons are biodegradable, but latex takes years to completely decompose. And when balloons are released into the outdoors, they can travel far distances and eventually end up in the ocean.
Once in the ocean, they are mistaken for food by sea turtles and eaten, eventually leading to death from starvation. Likewise, balloon strings can end up around the necks of sea animals and birds, preventing them from moving and increasing their risk of dying.
Consider joining PEBA and displaying their logo on a page about the environment on your website.
Regarding Drops, the trouble with medium to large outdoor drops is the ability for those balloons to get away from the event if there’s any wind which can bring the same environmental and publicity harms to your business as well as your client.
#4 Secure Balloon Garlands
Balloon garlands work really well for professionally decorating outdoor spaces. Just be sure that you secure the garland to a sturdy structure such as a wall, doorframe, fence, pergola, or railing. For a unique look, try to embellish the trees with balloon garland.
#5 Reinforce Balloon Columns
This tip is essentially the same for creating balloon columns and arches. The most effective way to do this outdoors is to use a base plate and sturdy pole. If you’re constructing the stand yourself, use conduit that is at least ½ inch in diameter and a heavy gym plate or something to add extra weight to the base.
It’s also worth noting that if you are using aluminum or darkly colored frames and poles, it’s best to wrap them with duct tape or white modeling balloons. This will prevent your design from getting too hot.
#6 Include a Balloon Sculpture
If you are creating balloon designs for a themed event, it’s creative to include a large balloon sculpture. Just consider pop culture characters, balloon numbers, props, bride and groom sculptures, and more. Throwing a tropical-themed party? Consider creating palm trees or cocktails out of balloons.
#7 Expect the Unexpected
As we mentioned, creating professional outdoor decor from balloons is not for the weak-willed. Mentally prepare yourself for all of the challenges you will have to overcome. And don’t forget to account for each of these elements:
- Wind
- Sunlight
- Heat
- Cold
- Temperature Changes
- Rain
- Sharp Objects
Because there are so many challenges outdoors, it’s common for balloon businesses to add disclaimers to outdoor balloon creations. These disclaimers explain to clients that balloons may pop when exposed to sunlight, will oxidize, and the decor may not keep its sharp appearance throughout the day.
#8 Experiment And Learn
The outdoor elements in your community will be different from others, so YouTube and decor trainers will provide many great tips and a starting point but going out in your backyard and experimenting is an exceptional way to improve your outdoor game.
If your neighbor has a pool, ask to try different decor on and near the pool.
If it’s going to be very hot for a few days, experiment with options for outdoor decor that can survive the heat.
Ultimately, creating professional outdoor decor is a ton of fun! So, don’t let the challenges of working with balloons in the great outdoors scare you from offering these services. Focus your time and energy on learning what to avoid and various hacks to make it easier, and you’ll be creating stunning professional outdoor balloon decor in no time.
