A How-To Guide for Event Planners
That’s a lot of balloons – 100,000, to be exact. Or rather 200,000. Despite all of their many differences, the Republicans and Democrats have one thing in common — they both like to end their conventions with a massive 100,000 strong balloon drop from the ceiling.
Balloons are inflated on-site at the convention center starting two days before the convention, according to a Democratic National Convention official. But the prep work starts months in advance and requires a team of more than 100 volunteers and staffers to make sure every balloon is positioned perfectly for maximum impact.
A well-executed balloon drop can turn any event into an unforgettable spectacle. Whether it’s a political convention, a corporate celebration, or a private party, a cascade of colorful balloons adds a touch of magic and excitement. However, orchestrating a successful balloon drop requires careful planning and execution. Here’s a comprehensive how-to guide to ensure your balloon drop goes off without a hitch.
Planning
Quantity: The number of balloons you’ll need depends on the size of the venue and the desired impact.
Type: Choose between standard 9-inch balloons and larger sizes for variety.
Colors: Select colors that match the event’s theme or create a patriotic display.
Material: Opt for biodegradable latex balloons to minimize environmental impact.
Inflation: Inflating a large number of balloons is time-consuming. Consider hiring a professional balloon artist or recruiting volunteers well in advance.
Rigging: Determine the best method for suspending the balloons. Netting is commonly used for large-scale drops.
Placement: Plan the placement of the nets to ensure even coverage and maximum impact.
Safety: Ensure the rigging is secure and won’t pose a hazard to attendees or equipment.
Execution
Setup: Start the setup well in advance, especially for large-scale drops.
Inflation: Inflate the balloons on-site or at a separate location and transport them carefully.
Rigging: Securely attach the balloons to the nets and hoist them into position.
Testing: Test the release mechanism to ensure it works smoothly and reliably.
Cueing: Coordinate the drop with the event’s program and have a clear signal for release.
Cleanup: Have a plan for collecting and disposing of the balloons after the drop.
More Tips
Volunteers: Enlist a team of volunteers to help with inflation, rigging, and cleanup.
Professional help: Consider hiring a professional balloon artist for large or complex installations.
Choreography: Synchronize the drop with music or other visual effects for added impact.
Photography: Capture the moment with professional photography or videography.
Any thoughts, opinions, or news? Please share them with me at vince@meetingsevents.com.
Photo by Adi Goldstein on Unsplash
