If you've ever wondered what it looks like to build a balloon empire, this episode will show you. I'm sitting down with "the Carolina sisters", Haley and Alley of Carolina Balloons and Confetti, a second generation balloon powerhouse who quietly crossed seven figures in revenue with a team that is basically their family.

But first, thank you to this month's presenting sponsor, Tuftex, who selected Haley and Ali as their guest of the month. Tuftex Balloons is the only manufacturer making latex balloons in the USA. They're committed to providing premium products and building a stronger balloon community through education. They've also been so supportive of the podcast, so thank you to such a great company!

And Haley and Alley were the perfect Tuftex pick because their dad started the company in the 80s when Tuftex was still called Maple City Rubber. They grew up inside balloon boxes, they were rigging balloon drops before they could drive and now they're running massive corporate installs, stadium confetti blasts, street festivals, LED and traditional marquee setups, giant rental games… and casually doing $200,000 in a single month of sales.

We talk legacy, takeover, sales psychology, burnout, pivoting during COVID and we get very honest about what it actually takes to grow this big. Buckle up, this episode is packed!

In the UGlu Hotline, hear a tip for when your marquee bulbs break!

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RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Sales Sets

Havin' A Party Wholesale (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST)

buildwiththeguild.com

UGlu by Pro Tapes (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST)

DM @thebrightballoon on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline!

2026 Bright Balloon Planner

carolinaballoons.com

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On the Bright Side Apple | Patreon

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If you've ever wondered if your online presence is doing more harm than good, this episode is for you. It turns out that etiquette isn't just about fancy forks and putting books on your head. It is your secret weapon to making every first impression count… both on and off screen.

In this episode, etiquette coach Jules Hirst spills the tea on modern manners that actually work in today's digital world. We connected because we are both 17hats Ambassadors! From crafting the perfect email to mastering small talk and strategic networking, Jules shares simple hacks that elevate your professional game without feeling stuffy.

I will for sure be utilizing her tips in my business when it comes to what I wear, how I make my first impression and what to do after a networking event.

In the UGlu Hotline, get another great tip from Erin at Young and Wild!

Unlock three free bonus episodes!

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Sales Sets

Havin' A Party Wholesale (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST)

Courtney Lynette Creative Co. (mention the podcast for $100 off!)

UGlu by Pro Tapes (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST)

DM @thebrightballoon on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline!

2026 Bright Balloon Planner

juleshirst.com

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On the Bright Side Apple | Patreon

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The Bright Balloon on YouTube

For this episode I sat down with Loretta from Perfectly Popped Balloons in England, live at the Sempertex International Balloon Convention, and we dove into the world of deliverables…or in her case, pickups. As in, the grab-and-go, take-home balloon pieces that can add consistent revenue to your business.

Whether you're brand new or years in, this conversation will give you practical ideas and fresh inspiration if you want to strengthen the smaller, handheld side of your offerings instead of focusing only on large installs that usually dominate the conversation.

In the UGlu Hotline, hear a tip from Red Balloon Cork in Ireland!

Unlock three free bonus episodes!

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Sales Sets

Havin' A Party Wholesale (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST)

Courtney Lynette Creative Co. (mention the podcast for $100 off!)

UGlu by Pro Tapes (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST)

DM @thebrightballoon on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline!

2026 Bright Balloon Planner

Imperfectly Me

@perfectlypoppedballoons

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On the Bright Side Apple | Patreon

Join the Bright Balloon email list

The Bright Balloon on YouTube