NEWS
Summer 2014
In this Issue:
* Industry Interview: Luc Bertrand * World balloon Convention * GOSH Christmas Event 2014 * Christmas Card Competition https://www.facebook.com/balloonandparty
website: www.bapiaonline.com
THE BALLOON AND PARTY INDUSTRY ALLIANCE
is very pleased to announce that we have agreed 3 UK dates with
COLIN STEWART STEWARTCBA CBA COLIN
who will be offering his
Simply Amazing Air Filled Décor to increase your profits
Supermarkets, Shopping centres, Sports teams, Product Launches, Store Openings, Corporate Celebrations. How can you create cost effective but impressive designer décor for these clients?
Colin will be explaining his techniques for approaching clients and securing their business. Following this there will be a handson session building a sellable piece that everybody can make. The last session before lunch will be a master class in balloon drop skills with the Relia-Drop system developed by Colin. The afternoon session will continue on from the project started earlier in the morning - having made contact with the client and agreed the design - Colin will now take you through the construction, build, rigging and hanging process to complete the project. This course is a fantastic opportunity for any balloon business looking to grow their skills to take on the corporate market with confidence! This class is NOT suitable for beginners, all delegates must have previously attended a fundamentals or basic balloon skills class.
BAPIA members - £65.00
Others - £85.00
Light refreshments (Tea/Coffee & biscuits) will be included.
Lunch is NOT included
To register for any of these dates go to: www.bapiaonline.com/training
The dates for your diary are Glasgow – Tuesday 22nd July 2014 Castleford, W. Yorks – Tuesday 29th July 2014 (approx. 30 - 45 mins from Leeds, Doncaster, York, Huddersfield, Sheffield & Hull. Approx 1 - 1.5 hrs from Manchester, Middlesborough, Nottingham & Liverpool) Enfield, Middlesex – Wednesday 30th July 2014
John Bowler interviews Luc Bertrand CBA Luc Bertrand CBA is one of the most high profile and well-travelled designers and instructors in the balloon industry. With his wife Ines they run the very successful shop and décor business called WAW Balloons in Anzegem, Belgium. Was it you or your wife Ines who was first inspired to get into balloons and when did you open your shop? (what inspired this?) 19 years ago we were visiting a Fair in Belgium. One booth displayed balloons and promoted the idea to start a balloon shop. We had never worked with balloons or seen a proper balloon shop. We loved the idea and I challenged Ines to start such a shop. That was definitely not for me as I then was running a fairly successful business as an interior architect. Imagine, I was specialized in office design, dealing with very serious businessman on a daily basis. Shortly after we decided to start balloons we opened a 36m2 shop in our house. We had a half a day crash course and were convinced we knew everything about balloons. Reality struck after a few days when we learned the hard way that we needed more knowledge on hi float. (our client moved the balloons into a freezing cold room after we inflated them) Soon people came into the shop asking for personalized or special creations and Ines happily called me in to help them out, as I was the ‘creative’ one. After no more than three months we attended the European balloon symposium in Paris where we entered all the competitions “as we got the balloons for free to play with”. At that point Ines was asked to teach for the Belgian distributor. Horrified she came over to me and told me. My reaction was “Do so, I will help you and we will have a blast” and we did. We were asked again and my wife now gently handed over that towel to me. And that is how it all started, I then was asked by Pioneer and soon had to decide if I wanted a ‘glamorous’ balloon career or continue my settled life in the office branch. Note if I call it glamorous, then that is when I am with colleagues. Explaining to non-balloon mortals what I do for a living is, well let’s call it ‘challenging’. I do not regret for a second I went for balloons as they brought me many (international) friends, fine colleagues, joy and satisfaction What % of sales are balloons verses other products that you sell? We started out with balloons and a small range of pluche items. Later we added greeting cards and tried party products. We dropped these as they seemed not profitable in our region. A few years ago I monitored sales and we then had balloons representing 55% in sales, pluche 35% and greeting cards 10%. The sales of pluche has since dropped significantly. Customers now buy smaller (read cheaper) items. However sales of balloons increased. So you will not hear me complain: less inventory and bigger margins. What would you say is your top selling balloon? Without hesitation: that is the 20” clear Deco bubble. The balloon is magic and the stuffed latex balloon will make it personalized for any customer. How and when did you become an industry instructor? Which do you prefer most, running your shop or teaching? As answered above. I love the technical side of the shop. Both Ines and I have a very distinct role in the shop. Ines deals with retail clients, where I will deal with decor clients. Where do you get your inspiration for new designs and how do you go about creating a new design? I like to challenge myself, you will very seldom see me use somebody else’s
WELCOME
idea. I know I am at my best when I give myself a deadline. I know my approach will be technical first of all. In my mind every balloon will turn in any direction and will pass all possible techniques. ( not necessarily a classic balloon technique). My opinion on creativity is: being able to abstract yourself from any way that an object or technique is supposed to be used. Only in that way one will discover new ways of using them, resulting in new designs What is your favorite design (big or small) that you have made and why? I do not have one favorite design, I am happy with any design that serves its purpose. Often people think I will choose one of my competition pieces to answer this question… nope, I will be more thrilled seeing that perfectly executed wall or arch You have taught in a great number of different countries, how many to date? Where have you not been that you would like to go to teach? On my way to Istanbul as I am typing this. Up to today I have been teaching in exactly 40 countries and I have several new destinations in the pipeline. Some very exciting ones, which I probably am not allowed to mention yet. But now that you ask: Australia is tempting, any takers? Where is your favorite place on earth (apart from home)? Not sure one should see it as favorite places but rather as fond memories. Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s description is probably the most accurate: “Life is not what one lived, but what one remembers and how one remembers it in order to recount it”. But you wanted a place and it could not be home? Tempted to say “my mothers belly” but frankly, my memory is not THAT good. Other than that, it must be Japan. More precise? Niko, in between the temples (with friends) … ...or Tokyo, in that teahouse near the lake with jumping fish chasing dragonflies, ...or Kamakura, exploring the forest with in the background the mesmerizing squeaking sound of cicadas ...or Nara, sitting down in a magnificent garden with an old Japanese lady explaining me all about the lotus flower while it is opening, ...or…. When you are not working or traveling what is your favorite past time? (hobby) Do more work? If balloons were no longer an option for you, what would you most like to do instead? Guess by then, I will be retired, my kids will be married and It will be my greatest joy to take care of their kids. But if tomorrow balloons would no longer exist… back into architecture and building?
PRINCE GEORGE’S BIRTHDAY TO STIR UP EXCITEMENT AND SALES
Tiny Tatty Teddy first birthday display by Luc Bertrand, CBA, of wAw Balloons in Vichte, Belgium
First birthdays bring big opportunities for the party industry! One year ago on July 22, Prince George Alexander Louis was born to Prince William and Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge. The highly-anticipated arrival of the Royal Baby was cause for great celebration worldwide. With his upcoming first birthday, the party, card, and toy industries can also use this opportunity to increase their sales with promotional tie-ins. Royalty or not, first birthdays are among the most celebrated, with parents often planning elaborate parties for the special day. Balloons in particular can be a very important addition, making for memorable decor and photo opportunities. In between seasonal holidays, retailers will benefit from in-store promotions and window displays featuring first birthday ideas at a variety of price points. How to Enter: on related ballo Qualatex® offers a wide your all in in” conw “#iam Include the hashtag Twitter and Pinterest and selection of first birthday balloons posts on Facebook, Instagram, to win the latest Conwin you’ll automatically be entered including the new ‘Me To You’ at ted selec CONWIN’s ers will be Giveback Giveaway prize. Winn you more The m. n.co onwi line-up featuring Tiny Tatty Teddy, iamc at d random and announce r your chances are to win! bette the a lovable grey bear who is popular post Giveaways with young and old alike. These can Start Posting Today! be combined with British-themed Learn more at iamconwin.com balloons to create an eye-catching display leading up to the Royal of the most been very fortunate to work with some we’ve try, indus Birthday, which is sure to increase on ballo the ion of ept ” has kept Since theratorsinc, Twist opportunity to work with the “Best Retailers around the world. This and ers, be to mers custo excitement for this milestone in Deco our s ted talen equipment that allow enables us to design and produce us on top of industry trends and general. Visit qualatex.com tive. Successful, Professional, and Crea industry, we’ve created the mic dyna this up make that Call +44 (0)1279 501090 or 0800 talented individuals To Reward and Recognize the als around the world. us to give back to balloon profession 28 12 15 in the UK. #iamconwin campaign – a way for
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April 7th Winner! Designer Work Belt
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10ft Ext. Hose Combo Set
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Special Offer on 1st Birthday balloons from Qualatex - order a minimum of 5 items per design and receive 10% off. Quote “Bapia1” when you call 0800 28 12 15 to get your discount. This offer is valid until 18th July 2014. Minimum carriage paid order is £100
FACE
2nd-5th October, Copthorne Hotel, Dudley Are you going? We will be there and we are really looking forward to our first face/body art convention. We will have a space at this convention so if you have any questions about BAPIA or would like to know how membership can benefit you, please feel free to drop by and have a chat, we will be very pleased to see you and to answer any questions you may have. We are also sponsoring a class at the convention: ‘Have a Ballooning Christmas!’ - Balloon gift Ideas for the festive season – by Sue Bowler CBA.
&
Body Painting Convention 2014
If you love balloons then don’t miss this opportunity to join one of the balloon industry’s top instructors, for her class! With over 20 years, experience in the industry, Sue teaches at balloon events Worldwide. At the UK Face & Body Art convention Sue will be teaching a range of great techniques to create a selection of fantastic balloon gift ideas perfect for the festive season! This will be an intermediate level class in a demonstration format with a hands-on opportunity to create your very own festive character!
If you’ve ever thought about adding face painting to your business offering but have never tried it here are a couple of basic step by step designs very kindly given to us by The UK Face & Body Art Convention organisers. There are 2 more designs in the member’s area of the website (members simply log in and go to the member’s area) CATERPILLAR 1. Caterpillar With a medium sized brush paint green circles on one side of face. aHighlight the circles with 1: With medium-sized brush paint green yellow circles onpaint. one side of face. Highlight the circles yellowcraft paint. TOP with TIP: Round sponges on sticks can be used for making these Top Tip:circles. Round craft sponges on sticks be eyes, used antenna, for making thesefeet circles 2. canAdd mouth, and leaves to finish.
2: Add eyes, antenna, mouth, feet and leaves to finish
BUMBLE BEE 1.
With a medium sized brush and white face paint draw the shape of Bumble Bee the wings (see left), whilst the painted line is wet use a clean 1: With a medium-sized brush and white sponge to drag the paint inwards to facefillpaint draw the shape of the in wings shape. Paint yellow onwings (see left). Whilst the painted line is wet use nose and 2 white circles above for a clean sponge to drag the paint inwards, eyes. to fill in the wing shape. Paint yellow on
and around two white circles above, for eyes. 2.nose Draw yellow body and white eyes with black to form head and body, around paint antenna, legs 2: Draw yellow arms bodyand and white give black the Bee jumping pose. eyestowith toaform head and body. With a fine brush in legs pupilstoofgive the Paint antenna, arms fill and beeeyes a jumping With a finethe brush and flick pose. outwards around fill in pupils ofhead eyesforand edge of the the flick hair. outwards around the edge of the head for the hair.
The World Balloon Convention (WBC), a Qualatex event, took place in Denver, USA from March 26-30, attended by more than 800 balloon professionals from 54 countries! WBC is a fantastic event that has something for everyone in the balloon world; Incredible selection of classes, taught by some of the most inspiring and talented industry instructors, spectacular theme parties, not only an opportunity to have fun, dance and socialise, but also to be part of the teams that design and build these magnificent events and of course the incredible competitions that take the world of balloon art to a whole new level! This year we were very proud to have a British team involved in the large sculpture category. Team GB was spearheaded by BAPIA members Sara & Mike Harris of For Every Occasion, Rhyl, Wales. Finding a theme for their sculpture was quite easy, they wanted to build something that was typically British and after a few ideas they agreed on the Red Arrows! Building a sculpture is a team effort and after many months of planning and working on their design they also had to work hard to recruit a keen and willing team who would happily work with them through the gruelling 27 (non stop) hours to take their design from concept to reality!
Team GB - The British Invasion were: Mike & Sara Harris, Matt Lewis, Lucy Hennessy, Joanne Dunne, Janine Chrispin, Jeanette Carden, Aileen Murray, Mari Forrett, Caroline Jones & Marcia Tull. Team GB also had help throughout the build from Beth Barlow and Matt Russell from Australia and Ziv Raviv from Israel.
A huge congratulations to Team GB, they were awarded a Silver Achievement Award for their large sculpture.
TEAM GB
The British Invasion
BAPIA asked Sara Harris to summarise the experience:
“
The competition itself was terrifying for me. With it being the first time the UK had competed at WBC, I was keen to ensure that we didn’t look out of our depth and this was my main concern. I had many, many horrible dreams about the sculpture collapsing and other teams laughing at us!! Once the build had started, every worry I had had over the previous 6 months disappeared completely and, as a team, we just got on with the job. Our team were fabulous! Most of them worked solidly for the 27 hours. I had to take a break ‘cause the balloons broke me and I finished up in the ER with a ‘popped tendon’ and a 600 dollar bill!! Dangerous little blighters are balloons you know! We had some issues through the build - the main one being the aluminium rod. It was so much harder than ours over here and bending the frames for the planes took way longer than expected. It was right at the start that we made a call to reduce the planes from the planned 5 to just 3. In hindsight, 5 planes would have been too many anyway. 26 hours and 40 minutes after starting, we finished. The emotion we all felt was incredible - nothing can compare to it! We all just literally burst into tears and hugged one another. An experience that I will NEVER forget - ever!
”
BAPIA asked Mike & Sara if attending WBC and entering the competitions has had any impact on their business since they returned:
“
The response since we returned has been amazing. We have picked up a few new contracts as a result of the free press release marketing we did. Customers want award winners to do their event. We are still in discussions with some prospective major clients too. WBC was a great experience for us and I would recommend everyone to attend if they want to make a step change in their business but don’t leave it until 2015 or 16 to start thinking it will cost too much. Take one or two of your best selling items and add a percentage on to the price. That extra profit is your WBC fund, you will be amazed at how quick it mounts up if you keep it to one side. When it comes round to booking you will have the money there as you have already planned well in advance for it.
”
Mike & Sara also received a Bronze Award for this delightfully complicated entry in the Balloon Column Category.
The awardwinning sculptures in the Large Sculpture category are shown overleaf.
BAPIA member, Lucy Hennessy, CBA, of Balloon Power in Leigh on Sea, United Kingdom achieved 4 Bronze awards for her entries in the following competitions: Balloon Column, Table Arrangement and Deliverable Sculpture.
“
I strongly believe in attending as many balloon conventions as I can because each one has given me new techniques to expand my business. I’ve wanted to attend an American Balloon Convention since I first started admiring pictures in ‘Images’ magazines 13 years ago, when I started my balloon business. After seeing all the press from the last event I decided that I was going to attend WBC 2014. Once I’d booked my space there was always a niggling feeling that if I didn’t compete I would regret it, as I had at the last UK event in 2012. I had rough ideas in my head and decided as I was going all that way I’d enter more than one competition. I drew out some ideas and submitted the forms. It was too late to go back now! From the rough drawings I started to develop ideas and apply for copyright which unfortunately wasn’t approved so I went back to the drawing board and came up with other ideas. Weekdays allowed me to concentrate on the designs, from an idea in my head to lots of prototypes. Some worked and some didn’t but I felt I was constantly learning. As the date got closer I started to panic and worry that the designs wouldn’t be good enough. Being part of Team GB was a great experience we started at 9am on the Tuesday and worked through to noon on the Wednesday. I took a couple of hours out on the Wednesday morning to prepare my stock and diagrams as I was literally going straight into my first and second competition after the large sculpture finished. The first competition was very nerve wracking – the deliverable sculpture. My hands were shaking and I started to panic, which led to some silly mistakes but I gave myself a talking to and settled down. Time ran away with me and the end result didn’t quite come out how I’d practiced it. There was no time to beat myself up about it I was going straight into the Balloon Column competition! This time we could have a helper which calmed my nerves. Janine Crispin CBA helped me, I think she was a little puzzled by my rushed diagrams. Competing next to me were Mike Harris & Mari Forret, Sara had hurt her tendons so Mari stepped in at the last minute. This helped as we laughed along the way and all battled the tiredness as we all hadn’t slept for the last 35 hours! That night I tried my best to sleep but excitement and jet
lag overtook. The deliverable arrangement really threw me, I knew there were issues with balloons floating in Denver but I thought I had this covered - Wrong. I had to quickly change my design by borrowing some bubbles. Again it wasn’t what I had envisaged on entering but it was complete and thats all what mattered! I went straight into my last competition – ‘In Bloom’. I brought all of the cupcakes complete in my suitcase and luckily there were just a few repairs. I wanted this one to be different from what I normally make and was pleased with the result. The balloon competitions were a great experience. I was glad I pushed myself and entered. It was hard work and took over 2 months of my life but I wouldn’t have had it any other way. Working alongside other competitors was a great experience and the standard of competition entries were very high. I didn’t have any expectations of medal wins, I just thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience. I was overwhelmed when I achieved four 4 bronze medals of achievement! I opted for a room buddy and was glad I did although I was a bit apprehensive as we would be living together for a week! I needn’t have worried as we shared laughter and a common passion in balloons. Jo may tell you a slightly different story as she also shared my competition mess and lack of unpacking! The convention built new relationships with members of Team GB. We all pulled together and created something that each and everyone of us were proud of. It was very emotional on the count down to the end of the competition build we were all so proud of Sara & Mike Harris who created the Team GB sculpture, lumps in throats & a few tears were shed! I really enjoyed the classes I went to, learning new techniques and being taught by people whose work I have always admired and never met was amazing. The convention was a mass of balloons, laughter and team spirit! The parties and gala dinner were fantastic, where do you get the chance of creating large scale décor to that level ? The staff at the event worked tirelessly and it’s down to their meticulous planning and hard work that it was such an amazing event! My advice to anyone thinking of attending would be to not hesitate, start saving for WBC 2016! I’d also say to help out on a large sculpture build; it gives you hands on experience on a project that you probably wouldn’t ever get the opportunity to build on your own. I’d also extend my stay as I flew home the same day the convention finished which didn’t leave me much time to shop! See you in New Orleans! Lucy Hennessey, CBA
”
Large Sculpture Category, winning designs
1st Prize: Team Russia
2nd Prize: Team Japan
3rd Prize: Team Taiwan
Associate BAPIA member, Raquel Reynolds, CBA, of Funky Balloons in Dublin, Ireland not only achieved a Gold Award for her Delivery Bouquet, she also took 3rd place! We asked Raquel about her WBC 2014 experience.
“
Only a small part of me wanted to enter a competition. Most of all, I was worried that taking part would involve too much preparation, too much stress and too much potential for disaster. However, I had entered ‘for-fun’ competitions in the jam sessions in Dallas 2012. I also had the experience of doing the CBA assessment, twice, in fact, because it didn’t go so well for me the first time! It was my husband who thought I should enter an official competition even though he didn’t give me much of a chance: “Listen, you’re not going to win. Just don’t embarrass yourself. Or Ireland.” He talked me into it and then left me for football on TV. The deadline to submit a design plan came very quickly and I wasn’t ready. No suitable ideas were suggesting themselves. With a bit of good luck, I spotted Rachel Allen’s new balloon designs while flicking through a Qualatex brochure looking for something to show a client. Although I had already seen and liked them before, it suddenly hit me that I could work with one of them as a competition design. Spouse had no ideas himself but he wanted to show his obvious enthusiasm and confidence: “I’m not sure it’s very creative. But you can see if you are any good under competition pressure.” Encouraged by this support, I made the first of my planned series of prototypes based on one of Rachel Allen’s new balloons. I gave her a name, ‘Sara’, so I could customise the delivery bouquet with stick-on letters. I was generally happy with the result apart from several details which I could sort out in Sara version 2. For the
moment, Sara v1 was enough to meet pre-competition requirements for WBC competition registration so it was back to the daily bread and butter of balloon business. I kept the design in my reception to show customers and tell them about the competition. (They loved the design but most of them were astounded there is such a thing as the WBC!). In no time at all I was on the plane to Denver without having actually completed a Sara v2. Competition Day came and the clock started ticking. I felt excited and nervous at the same time. I was worried about finishing in time and looking around I could see other people doing really wonderful things and I began to feel even more pressure. My immediate neighbours in the competition were Valter Saladino from Italy and a girl from China. They were very friendly and that helped to be able to relax in a focused sort of way. When the clock timed out, I was quite happy to have done a good job but I never really believed I would win a prize as the other entries were so good. Popping into my head were things I forgot to do as part of my design. Damn, I forgot to put a flower in her hair! (Note to self: make a to-do list of special touches and techniques for the next time.) The Gala dinner and prize-giving ceremony came. I was excited and happy but had no expectations of winning. They called out my name. I had won third-prize. For a moment, I couldn’t stand up I felt so shocked and scared. I somehow made my way to collect my prize. It was like a dream. I had also won a gold achievement award for a high score. It really felt lovely to be recognised in this way. Valter, who had been competing beside me won second prize in our competition and came first in columns! Raquel Reynolds, CBA
”
BAPIA would like to congratulate all those who took part in the competitions and for flying the flag on behalf of GB! Would you like more information on BAPIA or want to join? Membership is only £160 per year and includes many benefits such as Public, Products & Employers Liability Insurance cover, Legal Insurance cover and a Welcome Pack, along with many other benefits. To find out more or to join simply go to www.bapiaonline.com or you can call us on 0208 123 1746 or e-mail to info@bapiaonline.com
Raquel Reynolds, CBA, with her Rachel Allen-themed design.
and trend setting products in the market across each of the one stop party, balloon and costume categories. Amscan International have opened a new 500 square metre Showroom facility in Milton Keynes. The showroom, Europe’s largest dedicated to the party industry, opened its doors to the party industry and press on the 17th June 2014. Amscan offer expert advice and innovative products at competitive prices to over 40,000 retailers around the world. Over the past few years they have focused their hard work and energy into creating the most innovative
Over 10,000 products are on view, many previewing the latest products & innovations for 2015. The new showroom is at: Unit 4 & 5 Torc MK Chippenham Drive Kingston MK10 0BZ
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In recent times it has become impossible to ignore the increasing popularity of Candy Buffet and Sweet Carts. Many of us will have been to parties or events where a sweet cart or buffet has been a major feature and demand for them seems to be gathering pace. With many new exciting product developments and the nation’s love for all things sweet, there is an ever-growing desire for a more sophisticated offering, incorporating a wide range of adult and child occasions, from Birthday Parties to Weddings. As there is a perfect opportunity to dovetail this activity with existing balloon and event bookings, it represents an excellent chance to broaden your services and increase revenue. With a continually expanding availability of colours, shapes and sizes, a candy buffet, especially when augmented with balloons and decorations, can be themed for
any occasion or event. Delights Direct is currently stocking a comprehensive range of accessories, sweets and complimentary party products, all available at competitive prices. With no minimum order and quick delivery, it has never been easier to try your hand at this exciting new area of the industry. For details visit www.delightsdirect.co.uk call 0333 900 9000 or email trade@delightsdirect.co.uk
Balloon Polis™ cannot be found on official maps but has well defined borders. The first virtual platform dedicated to the community of balloon artists from all around the world whether you are a decorator, a twister, a retailer or an entertainer.
www.balloonpolis.com
A Virtual World of Balloons! Imagine a place where you can say that you are a balloon artist, not having to explain what it means. Imagine a school where qualified teachers teach you how to create various balloon compositions for all levels from beginner to advanced. Imagine a gallery where you can put on display all your artistic creations made out of balloons and maybe win a prize. The city of dreams is closer to you than you think and every one of you might become a privileged citizen.
A platform that is simple and intuitive where in just a few seconds you can find what you really need to become professional in your job. Balloon Polis™ is like a real city where you can see all the movements going on inside and also see where the different services are located. In Balloon Polis™ you will not be identified as a member but as a citizen who has his/her own apartment. In these apartments you can have guests who can leave you feedback or comments. In Balloon Polis™ you will even have the opportunity to make money from your own ideas, your projects and your inventions. In short, a living city that feeds on your own energy and makes you have the richest professional background that you can think of.
GOSH Children’s Christmas Party 2014 For the 2nd year running BAPIA is supporting Great Ormond Street Hospital with decor for the Children’s Christmas Parties. Many of you will not need any introduction to this event as you were all so keen to be a part of this in 2013 and it was a huge success. Due to unprecedented demand last year and to allow all of our members the same chance to be a part of this fantastic class we are going to change the booking process this year. We will open up the registration page on August 1st 2014, when you will be able to register your interest to book onto this event. On 30th September 2014 we will draw names from the list of those who registered and they will be given the first opportunity to book a place on the class. The Class: On Monday 15th December 2014 BAPIA (with the fantastic support of Amscan, Qualatex and BOC) is sponsoring the décor for the Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital Christmas Party and we are offering 25 BAPIA members the opportunity to take part in this class with 2 of the industry’s leading instructors and designers, Christopher Horne of Amscan International and Sue Bowler CBA sponsored by Qualatex. Both Christopher and Sue are acknowledged not only as two of the best instructors that the balloon industry has seen but also as fantastic designers who have created designs that are replicated daily around the world. Delegates will have access to photographs of the completed décor for use in their own portfolio and will also receive a personal letter of thanks from Great Ormond St. This is no ordinary party décor; due to allergy concerns for some of the youngsters, we are restricted to using only nonlatex balloons and the décor will have to survive 4 separate parties over the following 2 days. As some children cannot leave the hospital they will not be able to attend the parties, so we have to make the décor moveable so the staff and volunteers can “take the party to the children” afterwards. This party is supported not only by some of the country’s top companies but is always attended by an array of celebrities (who take 2nd place to Santa) and we want to make sure that this party is the best decorated in town! We will be charging £35 for the day. This will also include a Pizza lunch and refreshments. Any funds left-over will then be donated to GOSH along with a single donation from BAPIA. This is a 100% charitable event with all goods and services for the décor supplied free of charge. This class is NOT suitable for beginners, all delegates must have attended a basic/fundamental balloon course as a minimum. To register for the draw go to www.bapiaonline.com/training and register for this event.
Members Competition
We are feeling very Christmassy here at the BAPIA office and it’s only July! On the front of the BAPIA Christmas card last year we were very excited to feature the beautiful ‘Christmas Soldier’ created by Bob Armstrong of Doctor Bob’s Balloon Unlimited, Barry, South Wales. This year we thought it would be a great idea to make this into a competition for BAPIA members! So we are giving you the opportunity to feature one of your wonderful designs on the 2014 BAPIA Christmas Card! The winner will receive a framed print of their design along with 50 Christmas cards featuring the winning design! To enter all you have to do is send in your favourite Christmas / seasonal design or designs - you can enter more than once! This could be a small sculpture, balloon arrangement or creative balloon bouquet… it’s up to you! The competition is only open to BAPIA members and the design & photograph must be your own work. Your design image must be suitable to fit 182 x 117mm card and be horizontal or vertical. The image resolution should be 300 dpi and no larger than 10MB, and should be submitted as a JPEG. All entries must be submitted by 31st October 2014 and sent to info@bapiaonline.com with the heading CHRISTMAS. The winning entry will be chosen by an independent panel of judges and not BAPIA employees. The winning entrant will be contacted by email and the result posted on the BAPIA Facebook page. The prize is as stated and no alternatives are available. So what are you waiting for… get those creative juices working and send us your designs!
Face-painters & Candy Carts for GOSH We are looking for 10 face-painters and 2 Candy carts to come along to some or all of the parties. This is an opportunity to support one of the country’s leading charities and to see how much pleasure our industry brings to the youngsters. You will also receive a personal letter of thanks from Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity.