160 Twisting in Belgium and at Weddings

by Linda Berman

A huge round of applause to Leo Verlinden of IBS and his tireless staff and volunteers who produced an awesome balloon event in Belgium last month. I urge everyone to attend TMJ 2002 next June.

The jamming was wonderful with all balloons provided. Many languages were spoken but the most important language was that of sharing ideas, techniques and taking the sculptures to a new level. The competitions were incredible and very difficult to select winners. The small category allowed only 1 balloon and many of the competitors used a 160 for their entry. Please check Balloon HQ and the TMJ website to see the entries in detail.

I had the wonderful opportunity of encouraging participants to sculpt with 160s. Many participants were very excited to see how fast and easy it is to make marvelous miniature designs. For miniature multiple balloon designs, you can quickly inflate the balloons to 2/3 of their inflated length since you will trim each balloon to the necessary size.

While in Belgium, I visited a Belgian family. They held a barbecue for all their friends and family members who had children. As Heart Throb The Clown, I entertained everyone with miniature sculptures. Most had never met a clown and they all loved their first balloon sculptures. Several are interested in learning how to twist. I've attached a photo of Heart Throb and her new Belgian balloon fans.

Balloons and weddings are a great combination

Our own Lorna Paris was married last month in the Zorro Garden at Balboa Park in San Diego. Lorna carried a bouquet of balloon fantasy flowers she designed including a daisy made with yellow smiley balloons.

At the reception, I twisted miniature sculptures for all the guests. They loved the small designs. Shansu Elwood attended with her family and she and her husband also twisted for the attendees. Sandi Masori and her new balloonist, 5 week old Shor, helped make the event very special.

I've attached some photos of Lorna and Jim and their guests with their miniature balloons.

Entertaining with balloons at weddings is a wonderful addition to your service mix. I've entertained as Linda the Balloon Lady and as Heart Throb who dresses in her clown tuxedo and never tries to outshine the bride.

Next month, I'll include directions for some new miniature designs. In the meantime, try twisting your favorite design with only 160s and see how your customers react - people of all ages and sizes get very excited about marvelous miniature creations.

See you next month.