The vast majority of the time that I work an event I have a long line of people willing to wait to receive a balloon. Most of the time (unless Elmo is there) I have the largest group of people, of all ages, surrounding me.
So why is that? Is it really because what I’m making is really that cool? I don’t think so. Don’t get me wrong I make some pretty amazing sculptures and love make new ones off the top of my head, but that isn’t the main reason.
The reason people really wait up to two hours at large events for customized balloons (yep, that has really happened) is because it creates an emotional connection.
For kids it is fun and mysterious. For adults it is a reminder of their childhood imaginations.
Usually the goal is create happy and joyful emotions. Even balloon decor helps bring about those emotional responses of grandeur and elegance.
Last week though I had a goal to bring about a different emotion, fear. I have a friend that is on the very scared of spiders. Now it isn’t to the point of arachnophobia (then it’d be cruel) but she freaks out quite a bit about them.
So another friend had the idea of wearing a giant spider costume for a party. We looked around, but couldn’t find one so instead I told him I would make one. He wasn’t hesitant as first about whether I could actually make it scary, but I convinced him.
I ended up designing and building him a giant black widow costume. It was a lot of fun to make and it turned out great. I loved it and our friend was definitely creeped out about the costume.
I must admit that I was quite proud of myself. It is rare that I get to invoke fear and tears. I guess you’d say it is like the thrill of horror movies. Hmm maybe Stephen King will call me for his next film. 
If you’d like invoke some intense emotions for your next event then call (314) 346-2241 today!
