Some balloons seem more expensive than others. Why is that?
Good question!
- There are different grades of latex balloons. We use only the finest “Decorator Grade” of latex balloon in all of our work. Do we pay a premium for that? Yes, we do. Is that better for you and your event? Yes it is, because the better balloons have a larger color palette, don’t break as easily as cheap imports, last longer, their colors are truer and their shapes and sizes are more consistent. All in all, though you pay a little more for quality balloons it is more than worth it for you and your event. See our color chart HERE.
- The size of balloons also contribute to price differences. The standard size for a latex balloon is 11”. However, we also stock 5”, 9”, 16”, 18”, 24”, 36”, 4’, 5.5’ and 8’ balloons. Size matters when it comes to pricing.
- Foil (or silver shiny) balloons are usually much more expensive than the latex balloons. They also stay afloat much longer than latex balloons. These types of balloons come in a number of different shapes, sizes, styles and prints. There are literally thousands of styles in these types of balloons.
Why is helium so expensive now?
Unfortunately, we are in the midst of an international helium shortage that affects everyone who uses helium. We are very fortunate, because of our large buying power, to have reasonable prices on the gas and a steady supply. To get the full story on this challenging issue for everyone in the balloon industry, read my article at http://lotparty.com/helium-crises-explained.
I’ve heard balloons are bad for the environment, is that true?
Well, yes and no. Latex is a 100-percent natural substance that breaks down both in sunlight and water. The degradation process begins almost immediately. Oxidation, the “frosting” that makes latex balloons look as if they are losing their color, is one of the first signs of the process. Exposure to sunlight quickens the process, but natural microorganisms attack natural rubber even in the dark. Research shows that under similar environmental conditions, latex balloons will biodegrade at about the same rate as a leaf from an oak tree. The actual total degradation time will vary depending on the precise conditions. Click here for more information: http://www.balloonhq.com/BalloonCouncil/positions.html#Anchor-Balloon-49575
Foil balloons (often incorrectly called Mylar balloons) are NOT biodegradable and should never be released into the atmosphere. Mylar is a synthetic, metallized plastic/nylon material which is recyclable, but not biodegradable. Consequently, foil balloons are never used in a release. Helium-filled foil balloons do get away accidentally because a string breaks or a consumer lets go. These incidents seem to be diminishing as a result of ongoing awareness campaigns to encourage anchoring these balloons with decorative weights.
I need custom balloons FAST. Can you have them printed for me?
Sure! Our printers can oftentimes have balloons custom imprinted on either latex or foil balloons in a day or two. Rush charges will apply for such a quick service. Normally you would want to give us a week or so to steer clear of any rush charges and expedited shipping charges that could occur.
Do you do same day deliveries?
Yes we do – schedule, timing and weather permitting.
Do you work outdoors for events?
Yes we do, all the time! Through rain, sleet, hail and snow doesn’t only apply to getting the mail through. We generally adhere to those principles as well.
What if I have a problem with a latex allergy?
We are certainly sensitive to the needs of not just latex allergies, but food allergies as well. If you really love balloons like we do (and seriously, who doesn’t LOVE balloons?) there are alterative types of balloons (foil and/or plastic) that we have often employed when a latex allergy exists at your event.
Do you accept credit cards?
Yes – VISA, MasterCard, American Express and Discover are all gladly accepted.
Can you make a balloon drop for me?
Sure we can! We make all kinds of great balloon drops in many different sizes and shapes to fit the specific needs of your venue. Here is some more information on Ballon Drops for you – http://lotparty.com/balloon-drops
Do you deliver to hospitals?
Yes, we do. However, you will want to be sure the patient has been assigned a room before we attempt a delivery. Generally hospitals will not accept balloons if a person is currently being operated on or is in recovery.
How long do your balloons float?
Good question! Our standard size 11” latex balloon will float about 16 to 18 hours depending on the temperature they are in. The larger the balloon, the longer it will float. The hotter it gets the faster they will come down. Our standard 18” foil balloons can stay up for days and even weeks.
Can you make latex balloons stay up longer?
Yes we can! There is a special non-toxic substance we use called HI-FLOAT that is a floating extender for latex balloons only. Safe, nontoxic and biodegradable, HI-FLOAT is trusted by balloon professionals worldwide. HI-FLOAT is nontoxic, nonirritating, noncorrosive, nonflammable and biodegradable. It is very similar to the adhesive found on the back of postage stamps. Simply wash it off of skin with water. If the product is accidentally splashed into the eyes, flush the eyes with water for several minutes. Although HI-FLOAT is nontoxic, it is a good idea to keep bottles away from small children.
Are you insured and can I get an Insurance Certificate from you?
Yes, we are fully insured for general liability, auto liability and workers compensation.