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But sometimes, even that may not be enough. Remember, that helium is expensive, because it is a rare element on Earth. Helium is such a small atom, that storing, processing, and transporting helium is a costly endeavor for gas suppliers. Adding to this, helium is also in a greater global demand by industry for uses ranging from MRIs to fiber-optic maintenance to super-conductivity. This has caused a significant rise in helium prices over the past two years, which is always passed on to the consumer.
Today, nearly a year after I first wrote this Gasbag, these issues continue, and my cost for helium has risen twice, averaging 15% each time. Many of my competing balloon artists are also suffering from price increases, and spot shortages. Some event centers and businesses that do their own balloons have now stopped, because they cannot get helium, or it has become too expensive for their budgets.
The only other lighter-than-air gas is hydrogen. And, anyone who knows aviation history will tell you that the Hindenburg crash some 60+ years ago ended the use of hydrogen in floating objects and flying machines.
So how can we continue to make our parties great for our customers and their guests?
Easy, we use air.
An example of this was a recent High School Homecoming I worked. The client wanted a balloon arch, and I have done this as a homecoming decoration several times. But I was low on helium, and so was my supplier. We did not have enough to take the job as an arch.
But there was another factor in play. The forecast called for windy conditions, and I knew that an arch would be difficult to keep stable for the festivities.
So instead of an arch, we built two air-filled columns, and set them on heavy bases.
Result: the columns held up to the wind, and the project was less expensive than a helium arch. The client was pleased, as were the student body for this special event.
Another helium alternative is the air-filled topiary, a 12-balloon sculpture that can be used as a table centerpiece, or hung from a ceiling. Topiaries can be decorated in many ways, add color and texture to a room, and are just stunning to look at. We can even use topiaries as an alternative to helium balloon bouquets for a new twist for delivered greetings.
You can also deliver a helium-free greeting to that special someone by ordering one of our unique stand-up characters.
If you still want a balloon arch, I suggest using Link-O-Loons. They use 75% less helium than a garland arch, which saves you money. And, Link-O-Loons can be air-filled for use as decorative swags in indoor venues, again a delightful alternative to the expense of helium. Link-O-Loon walls are also 100% air-filled, and provide impressive impact among party guests.
Holiday party season is coming soon, and we can help you there as well. For example, if you like to place helium balloons on chairs to decorate a room, try hanging an air-filled balloon ornament or a giant snowflake instead. In many cases, we can hang these directly over a banquet table. For dance floors, you can choose not to use a helium canopy, but opt to make the columns more inviting by turning them into lovely balloon Christmas trees.
