5 Balloon Decor Ideas for Your Next Atlanta Party

Who said balloons were only for kids?

Not me! I love balloons for all types of events, and they can really liven up a room. If you a party coming up soon, you’re in luck because I am here to introduce you to Oscar Baker, Co-Owner of Lou & Lee Events and Designs in Atlanta Georgia, and he is totally an expert at this craft. We sat down to talk about 5 of the most popular balloon designs that are sure to make your party POP...get it...because balloons!

You knew I was going throw in a corny joke!

1. Balloon Wall:

I loved hearing Oscar’s excitement when we first spoke about joining me on this blog topic! It’s ironic that this was the first design I asked him about, because balloon walls just happen to be his favorite. “Balloon walls totally transform spaces, and make a mood!”. Balloon walls can serve as a main focal point for an event, like art work or a backdrop for pictures. Using a balloon wall to push a theme is HUGE, like baby showers, bridal showers and kids parties. They can also act as a barrier to hide spaces you don’t want your guests to see. I loved this one with it’s earthy toned colors and floral accents! Definitely a show stopper!

Photo Credit: Lou & Lee Events and Designs

2. Oversized Balloons:

When we say oversized we are talking about the big boys! Oversized balloons can go from 24-36 inches around in size, and Oscar likes to use these to add dimension to a space. His suggestion is to concentrate on a color palate when using oversized balloons. Following a flow and family of colors that complement each other is the key. “Dress them up with confetti on the inside, or wrap tulle around them on the outside for a classier look.” He also likes to attach them to garlands and or a balloon wall for a grander effect. They are also great for filling that corner or area in a room that you just don’t know what to do with. I agree, because all space is an opportunity for design!

Photo Credit: Ali Express https://images.app.goo.gl/q3WkCtHyXdKXAbJU7

3. Metallic Balloons:

I would have to say these are my favorite, so much that I even talked about metallics in my very first blog. I asked Oscar why he felt these were becoming so popular. He says “Metallics are eye catching! Clients like them because they are elegant and expensive looking, but they aren’t as expensive as you think.” He follows up with the fact that they are a more expensive style of balloon to buy, but if you have the money to upgrade to metallics DO IT! Oscar says that these balloons are the only style that he would approve for weddings, although he is not a fan of using balloons for such occasions. Formal events like proms, and anniversary parties use this look because their reflective surfaces brighten dimly lit areas. Metallics are definitely on the rise (there I go again LOL), and don't be surprised if you see them in more places.

Photo Credit: Balloon Elegance https://images.app.goo.gl/pV8jVCmBwG74arxf9

4. Balloon Garland:

I asked Oscar about his opinion on balloon garland kits from Amazon. Should we use them? Are they worth it? He says “I only do organic balloon garlands, because I can make them more free form, and I can manipulate them in any shape. I’m not stuck to doing one style with the pre-packaged designs”. Even though he doesn’t use store/online bought garlands, I think we both agree if it’s your first time doing a garland then the pre-packaged ones are a safe bet. If you like the look of them, overtime you'll have more fun designing your own. He loves working with garlands because “They can be continual with no stopping point, and they can carry an event on their own.”. I thought that was cool because with garlands there’s really no rules, and that helps make designing stress free. 

Photo Credit: Lou & Lee Events and Designs

5. Balloon Columns:

Up until Oscar and I sat down to discuss balloons, I thought columns were the easiest design to do. In my mind all I needed to do was blow them up, twist them together, and add them to a column form or a pole. I was surprised to learn that columns are actually the more structured of the designs, and take more time due to the detail. The balloon sizing has to be uniform for the look to be right, and if not it can look messy. Oscar and I are both members of a popular Facebook group for folks in the event industry. I asked him about the poles that people in the group frequently buy to make their columns and does he do the same. “I actually make my own, because then I can decide how tall I want them to be!” I loved hearing about how creative he was when customizing columns for his clients. He suggests to use them to frame entryways and treat tables. He also uses them to hide beams or load bearing poles that could be in awkward positions in event spaces.

Photo Credit: Lou & Lee Events and Designs

CONCLUSION: Do’s, Don’ts and FYI’s:

I asked Oscar if he could give some tips to my readers about using any of these balloon decor ideas at their next Atlanta or Austell event, and here’s some gems he left me with:

DO

• Remember to be patient.

• Have fun with it, and get creative!

• Follow his online class on Facebook to learn how to do popular balloon designs! 

DON’T

• Substitute quantity for quality. Don’t buy cheap balloons!

• Don’t draw attention to mistakes, just cover them with props like flowers, party hats, toys, or whatever goes with your theme.

FYI’s

Here’s the best places to buy balloons and where to use them

• Good: Dollar General - Indoor Events Only

• Better: Walmart and Party City - Indoor and Outdoor Events

• Best: Balloons.Online (Sempertex Brand) - Indoor and Outdoor Events

I want to thank Oscar for all the information he shared with me! Talking to him about his craft is so much fun, and he is someone I hope to work with in the future! To connect with Oscar and Lery with Lou & Lee Events and Designs, email them at LouAndLee2017@gmail.com and follow them on social media: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok.

If you have any questions about how to incorporate balloon decor and other designs at your next Austell or Atlanta Georgia event, contact us.

Until next time!

Keep it Chic,
XOXO
Amaris Taylor

A Party Divas Guide: 5 Tips for Planning a Post Quarantine Event

Throwing a fabulous event is not for the faint of heart. It takes passion, energy, and a really great support bra to get it done (trust me)! Whether it’s a day or evening event, the theme may be different, but the elements never change. These steps are your guide, a pathway if you will, to get you through any event. 

The Party Diva Scene

For most of us, getting our friends together for the first time since social distancing is going to be exciting! The hugs, the laughs, and the drinks will be plentiful. However, Madame ‘Rona has really changed the game for the event industry, so it’s important to think about innovative ways you can still keep the party going. 

Setting the scene, especially if the event is happening in your home, can be fun, but a bit confusing when picking themes or decor for the party area. Our homes are often fully decorated with couches and throw pillows, which is different than working with an empty venue. Whether you have a comfy sofa and coffee table or some other furniture combination, one of the best items to add are metallic or pearlized balloons. These ain’t your average 10th birthday party color balloons, but are more grown up, adding a sexy adult appeal to a party. Throw a cluster or two in a few corners of your space to give it a “pop”…see what I did there? Balloons…pop…no? Ok no more corny humor, promise. 

The party area of your home may not have an abundance of flat spaces, so you may need a few tables to place your food and drinks, maybe even a few favors if you want to get fancy! 

Ensure you order corresponding tablecloths for each table you set out, this will help to bring your decor together even more. If you’re getting together during the day, keep your linens light and bright with ivory, white, or even a color that already exists in your space to tie it all in. Candles and florals strategically placed around your area will also help to make it feel warm and welcoming. Add some folding chairs if you don’t have enough seating, and viola! A simple and chic scene is set! 

The Party Diva Vibe

Now your place looks great, so what’s next? Talk, mingle, and catch up! One way to set the vibe for your party is to include a game of choice. That can be something you create specifically for your guests or a game such as Jenga or Cards Against Humanity. Whatever you decide to do, make it an atmosphere that your guests can feel comfortable in. 

Lighting is key, especially for evening events. Edison lights on a back deck or patio makes a world of difference for the mood of your event. Here are some other lighting ideas if you wish to take it up a notch:

• You can grab some inexpensive votive candles from Walmart and line your back deck railing.

• You can add lanterns with pedestal candles inside them for a more romantic affect. 

Next up, add some music. If you know your guests and what they like, play their favorite songs. Personally, my friends are varied and so are their tastes, so my trick is to play Spotify on a speaker and gauge the vibe of the group. 

Whether you decide to throw a movie night with the hot buttered popcorn. Do a wine tasting and hire a bartender to provide custom wine blends. Whatever you do, make it fun and memorable.

The Provisions

Food - The backbone of any event. If you’ve been skimming this post up until this point, now is the time to pay attention. Virginia Woolf once said “One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.” Well baby, if I could go back in time, I would tell my girl V to edit and add “party well” because this is fact.

I’ve been the victim of circumstance while attending a party with a less than adequate array of food to choose from, and have even been the host with this party faux pas! To avoid this scenario, remember to request food allergies and restrictions from your guests prior to your event. You may have vegetarians or vegans coming, and no, they don’t just love a good salad! Have other options for them other than the standard fruit and veggie tray. 

Remember those tables and tablecloths I told you to purchase? This will be the base for your buffet area. If you can go for the matching serviceware, do it! I have a love, call it an obsession for beautiful serviceware. Nothing looks better than big, white porcelain bowls filled with colorful pasta salad or grilled chicken and rosemary on a gorgeous platter.

Tongs and other serveware should be available for your guests to load up on their favorite items. I like to have a tub filled with ice and an assortment of drinks that guests can grab and go. Add some mini splits of champagne and straws for that extra chic touch! Plates, cutlery, and napkins should also be near by the assortment, but have them in a decorative little basket to keep them clean. 

Most importantly, don’t feel obligated to cook because you are the host. If cooking is not your thing or just too time consuming, have your event  catered. 

The Fashion

I promise you, folks will be itching to get out and socialize so badly they will proudly buy and wear that Hawaiian shirt to your event. But seriously, it’s important to let your guests know what’s expected for the event attire. 

I remember when my husband and I were dating and he would invite me to parties telling me it’s something casual, only to show up and see everyone dressed in business casual attire. For the sake of wives and girlfriends everywhere, be sure to communicate your event attire on your invitation. 

Is it a daytime outdoor event? Then heels may not be appropriate or comfortable, and you don’t need to be worried about sprained ankles or grass stains on your guests favorite outfit. Is it an elegant dinner party? Then guest should know if jeans would be appropriate.

Making sure your guests are comfortable and cute for your party is always a plus. Some fun examples of how fashion can make a statement at a party or gathering could be an all black or white attired theme. You can even have some fun masks at the door for a mini masquerade! 

Just keep in mind that comfort is key! You want people to stay, and have the best time in your space. 

The Safe Zone

If food is the backbone of an event, safety is the heart. Your guest’s safety is of the utmost importance throughout the evening. It never hurts to have a first-aid kit in close proximity for minor cuts and scrapes. 

Now, we all like to kick back and drink at a function, but as the host be sure to monitor your alcohol consumption. It’s never a good look to not know what goes on in your home because you’ve had too much punch. Be sure to space out your guests drinks as well, and have bottled water, or a chilled caraffe for your guests to drink in between cocktails. 

One tip is to collect your guests keys at the beginning of an event if you would like to check they are sober enough to drive before they leave. Whatever method you choose for monitoring your guests, be attentive throughout the night. You can also enlist a friend as your designated driver for the night, in the event anyone needs it. If that’s not an option, make sure your rideshare app such as Uber, is ready to take guests home. 

Finally, don’t be afraid to house your guest for the night. Use that 6th sense, just in case the rideshare may not be the best option. 

Here are some last minute lifesavers (I’ve even added them in bullet points so you don’t miss them!):

• Ensure that you have extra toilet paper and towels in your bathroom. Pre-light a candle in there as well, this adds to the ambiance and takes away from anything else.

• Make space in your refrigerator. You will undoubtedly have more food on hand than usual.

• Don’t give away your good containers! Get some to-go trays for people who want to take leftovers home.

• If you have extra phone chargers, have them handy for your guests to use if needed. 

• Yes! You do need more ice.

I hope you have learned a lot from my tips, and that your next event is a successful one! Have a question? Don’t hesitate to reach out and ask.

Keep It Chic,

Amaris T.