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| SIGN UP to receive e-mail updates about the WBC 2012. |
Class Levels |
Important Deadlines |
| You could win! Stay at the Sheraton Dallas Hotel and you’ll be eligible to win four free hotel nights during WBC 2012!* |
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The education offered at the World Balloon Convention is designed for a variety of skill levels and interests, from those just beginning in balloons to seasoned professionals looking for new techniques and inspiration. The curriculum also integrates valuable business-focused information into all classes to help you make more money while creating fabulous designs. Experience Levels Hands-on Workshops (HO) Do you need a little extra push to take your balloon work to the next stage of excellence? In this class, Jean Eddy, CBA, and Lisa Swiger, CBA, will take you just beyond the basics to add a new level of depth and sophistication to all you balloon work. [Read More]
Jean and Lisa will share ideas for Classic Balloon Decor explaining the formulas you need for success including Arch length, spiral garland chart, and balloon calculations. They will begin with the basics of pairs, clusters, garland, balloon patterns, and packing techniques. You will also learn key areas of Classic Balloon Decor: Arches, Columns, and Swags. Once the basics are mastered, they will show you how to go beyond and build these techniques into your portfolios with topiary designs and simple add-ons to up-sell your work. They will help you increase your balloon knowledge, share tips on building your portfolios, and provide marketing solutions and pricing structures.
 Have Fun With (and Profit From) Topiaries and Gumballs – Basic Interactive Lecture Alex Arroyo, CBA, & Pepe Posada, CBA Topiaries and Gumballs are two versatile elements in balloon design that are easy to create and make a big visual impact. This interactive class will show you how to make these eye-catching designs and will focus on how to create several variations of these decorative elements that are perfect for any occasion. [Read More]
This class will be focused around two important staples within the balloon art industry — Topiaries and Gumballs. These two designs incorporate several fundamental techniques that will help you progress to many other decor elements. During this class, Alex and Pepe will share the secrets to making the perfect Topiary and Gumball quickly and professionally. They will ensure you understand the design concept through hands-on interactive activities and then discuss how to build these designs into many areas of balloon art, as well as discovering how, when, and where to use them. Alex and Pepe will complete interactive exercises to help you understand the pricing structure using the Job Cost Form and up-selling for perceived value. If you’re looking to build your basic portfolio, have fun, and most importantly, learn to make good profits, then this class is a must.
How to Shout, “It's a Baby!” – Basic/Intermediate Interactive Lecture Federico Onida, CBA Customers who buy a decoration or a gift for a newborn child often desire something special, full of details and accessories, and both joyful and expressive. Within this class, Federico will show the most popular compositions from many years of experience in his store. [Read More]
Federico, owner of a thriving and in-demand retail store in Italy, has designed numerous retail-friendly creations in his time, but his “bambino” creations are simply adorable! Learn how to create these animals for various occasions from a birth celebration to baptism to first birthday gifts. With Bubble Balloon-inspired centerpieces and many more techniques, this award-winning instructor will share his ideas, experience, and excitement for this precious occasion.
Milestone Birthday Columns – Basic Interactive Lecture Federico Onida, CBA Learn how to build a new profitable side to your business: milestone birthday Columns. Federico will share a wonderful Italian-style collection of milestone deliverables on simple Column structures, so join him for this creative and fun class. [Read More]
Each one of Federico’s designs focuses on a different milestone birthday occasion, ranging from adorably cute pieces to impressive must-haves. Federico will explain the most important part of the Column and what it does to impress, and he’ll demonstrate a variety of easy add-on techniques for up-selling. He will also show you how to create and easily reproduce ideas so you can build your own collection. Federico will cover how to display your portfolio on the counter-top and create an in-store environment with these adorable designs, as well as share his top promotional tips for selling these pieces.
 Qualatex Fundamentals – Basic Interactive Lecture Luc Bertrand, CBA This world-renowned introductory class will teach you the skills and techniques of basic balloon art. You’ll learn how to inflate, size, and tie latex and foil balloons. Learn how to create a number of balloon designs from a balloon-in-a-box and layered bouquets, to a String-of-Pearl Arch and spiral garland Columns. This course also covers health and safety, pricing for profit, and gas and balloon calculation. This course is fun-filled and hands-on. [Read More]
This is the benchmark course for all balloon professionals. It is perfect for a balloon beginner and highly recommended as the first training course within your career. This course will give you all the skills you need to get your business up and running, and give you the foundation to move on to more specialized subjects. This four-hour, intensive course covers information on:
Ready to Sell – Basic/Intermediate Interactive Lecture Alberto Falcone, CBA This class is designed and targeted for the retail sector. You’ll learn to make a variety of air-filled designs showcasing 18" Microfoil balloons combined with coordinating latex. The designs are versatile and long lasting, making them perfect in-store cash-and-carry items. [Read More]
Alberto has been perfecting a collection of design-focused compositions targeted for the retail sector; he has already placed these in his store and they are fast becoming his top-selling, most profitable items. The designs are focused around 18" Microfoil balloons and complemented with Qualatex coordinating latex to make a whole range of seasonal and themed designs. Alberto will share several techniques during each composition, ensuring you’re confident when reconstructing each design. Alberto will also focus on the most productive ways to display products in your store for ideal sales and impulse purchases.
Retail Delivery Gifts & Fun Designs for Profits – Basic Interactive Lecture Jean Eddy, CBA, & Lisa Swiger, CBA What makes a profitable design? Join Jean Eddy, CBA, and Lisa Swiger, CBA, as they show you how to increase your counter sales with fun, simple, and creative designs at varied price points with simple add-ons. [Read More]
This class is all about retailing — whether you’re looking to open a store, already taking those first steps, or maybe just needing an inspiration refresher to add some fun creations and impact within your store. These seasoned professionals will share real-life tips, current best practices, and an array of fun designs that are simple to create and range in price.
So You Want to Twist? – Basic Hands-on Connie Iden-Monds, CBA Learn basic twisted balloon designs that can be incorporated into decor, deliveries, gift baskets, and entertainment. These designs allow for a tremendous amount of up-sell and can propel the expansion of your business into a full-service company that combines entertainment and decor. Ensure work all year ‘round with decor and entertainment. [Read More]
This skill differentiates you from competitors and REALLY differentiates you from florists, party stores, and other mass-production retail chains. Connie will work with you to execute the perfect twisting techniques that can be incorporated into your business, whether you are an entertainer, retailer, or decorator. Connie is an outstanding business woman and understands that training is a key to growth and success. She will share with you the art form of learning and passing on these skills so you can grow your company and staff into a profitable, refreshing, year-round, all-service company.
Special Effects – Learn How to WOW Your Customers – Basic Interactive Lecture Alex Arroyo, CBA, & Pepe Posada, CBA Special effects and balloons go hand in hand. Exploding balloons, special lighting, neon balloons, and many other eye-catching effects will be featured in this class. The goal is to keep it stunning and simple, while still being effective and profitable. [Read More]
Special effects go perfectly with balloons, and by combining these two elements you are creating not only decor for your clients, but also adding atmosphere to the room. Alex and Pepe will show you the newest industry products to create exciting events that will thrill and excite your most jaded clients through special techniques that are easy to do and easy to incorporate into Classic Balloon Decor. Alex and Pepe have been working with special effects for more than 20 years and have proven marketing strategies. They will also share ideas to help you integrate this element into your business, with an added focus on portfolio building. Set yourself apart from the competition with unique and creative ideas that will make your events memorable.
Thursday Night Theme Party Decor Accents – Basic Hands-on Cam Woody, CBA Join Cam for this fun, hands-on class and help build decor for the Thursday Night Costume Party! With an abundance of ideas to add impact to the room, Cam will inspire you, help you create great decor, and build your portfolio by being a part of the best party of the year! [Read More]
Having hands-on experience is the very best way to learn and master balloon techniques; it’s like a balloon jam for decorators! Set yourself up from the start and join in not only for the fun, but also for the best learning activity with great one-on-one support. Whether you are new to balloons or a balloon veteran, hands-on classes are ideal; they’re a great way to meet fellow professionals, which enhances your WBC experience. You will be proud of your contribution and efforts when you see the designs all in one room. You will also have great photos to take away and start building your company portfolio. Cam will work with you on the Job Cost Form to help you understand not only how to create the designs but what to charge for them and the benefit of perceived value through simple costing exercises.
Tip-Top Tablescapes – Basic Interactive Lecture Amanda Armstrong, CBA Table dressings and centerpieces are the focal point for most events. Why just sell the client a single centerpiece when you can sell them a full Tablescape? Amanda has taken this concept and integrated it into her business — a concept that is bringing in great profits. [Read More]
In this class, she will share her Tablescapes concept and show you several themed variations. Learn how to make fabulous themed enhancements and centerpieces along with keepsake Microfoil flowers, add-on elements, chair decor, star spray party favors, balloon design napkin rings, under-the-sea sashes, and more! This class also focuses on target marketing and up-selling with supporting pricing point guides.
Twizzle Sticks & Twisted Temptations – Basic Interactive Lecture Keith Stirman, CBA, & Dominic Cassidy, CBA This class will be a favorite with simple, sellable creations that are fun, eye-catching, and highly profitable. These designs make a wonderful party addition and are perfect for retailers. They’re also a great gift for an entertainer to add to their offerings. With add-on sales and impulse purchases, this new collection will be selling like hot cakes. [Read More]
In this class, Keith and Dominic will share a design concept you can use over and over in a variety of themes. What you’ll love about this concept is that once you learn how to construct it, it’s easy to sell time and time again. Even your staff will be developing their own themed versions! Once the techniques and creations have been demonstrated, Keith and Dominic will teach you how to up-sell your work, creating a variety of price points through a Job Cost Form exercise using the designs created as a guide. This will give you confidence not only in creating the designs, but also knowing how much to charge for them.
Intermediate Classes Do you have knowledge of basic skills, such as spiraling Columns and Arches, balloon tying, and balloon colors and sizes? Then the intermediate level classes are for you. You should have at least one year of hands-on experience in the industry. Theory is taught at this level, including formulas, cost analysis, and elements of design, and trade terminology is used. Azusa’s Best Sellers – Intermediate Interactive Lecture Azusa Ieizumi, CBA Azusa runs a very successful retail business and is thrilled to be able to share her top-selling creations that combine numerous Qualatex products. This class focuses on counter-top sales, selling portfolios, and displays with an Asian flair. [Read More]
Azusa combines Qualatex Microfoil, latex, and Bubble Balloons to create a range of retail pieces ideal for impulse purchases, counter tops, decor to go, and delivery. She will also share tips on displaying them in your store to maximize traffic and help your company stand out from the crowd. Bring your camera, your notepad, and make room for some of the most sellable designs on the planet.
Balloon Decor Alfresco Style – Intermediate Interactive Lecture Amanda Armstrong, CBA The great outdoors holds its own set of challenges, but it too can be fun. If you prepare well, you can reduce any frustrations of building outdoor decor. Join Amanda and learn to have success not failure — with Decor Alfresco! Amanda will share practical design ideas, techniques and treatments, selling techniques, and pricing guides . [Read More]
You‘ll learn how to tackle the BIG 3' balloons as we focus on outdoor promotions and learn how to create a big impact for large-scale events. Tame the wild outdoors as Amanda shows you special techniques, creative designs, treatments, and rigging alternatives to help keep your money from blowing away in the wind!
Balloon Decor to Go – Intermediate Interactive Lecture Sue Bowler, CBA A follow-up from Sue’s high-scoring Boost your Sales class, all-new content makes this class a must as it allows you to build decor-to-go and delivery designs, perfect for retail growth. [Read More]
During this class, Sue will show you a range of decor concepts and designs perfect for birthdays, christenings, weddings, and other occasions. Sue will give you tips on successful ordering systems, how to prepare your balloons, storage and transportation suggestions, and how to market and promote your balloon-decor-to-go service. She will also focus on creating designs with a visual impact for inside your store to help attract more foot traffic and increase sales!
Balloon Walls & Logos Made Easy – Intermediate/Advanced Interactive Lecture Luc Bertrand, CBA In this class, Luc will show you the different approaches in making walls and how to choose the appropriate technique. Learn different packing styles, building patterns, and rigging options. You will also learn about different mediums, style connections, and logos. [Read More]
Luc will share his secrets with a wealth of solid and practical information that you can apply to building balloon walls and logos. He will teach a range of garland styles, formulas, patterns, and the best techniques for integrating a corporate logo into promotions and advertising opportunities. Luc will also cover pricing exercises to help you understand pricing for profit and perceived value, as well as his marketing strategies for walls and logos. After seeing how Luc has integrated them into his business for profits and repeat orders, you’ll be ready to land big corporate jobs that can take your business to a whole new level of success.
Big Balloon Decor – Intermediate Interactive Lecture Andrey Osokin, CBA, & Dmitriy Tishenko, CBA Dmitriy and Andrey will focus on the larger balloons — 646Q, 24", 3', jumbo Microfoil, and more. Big balloons fill space fast and generate profits even faster. This class focuses on how to incorporate these balloons into decor offerings for corporate clientele and promotions. [Read More]
Dmitriy and Andrey will show you how larger balloons are perfect for the corporate markets because of their size, impact, and branding opportunities. Larger balloons stand out at exhibitions, towering above competitors. They are perfect for high-ceiling venues, outdoor promotions, and much more. Dmitriy and Andrey will not only show you an array of creative decor pieces, but they will ensure you have the right tools to understand how to use them, how to sell them, and how to increase the sale price with techniques from their own successful business.
Boost That Sale! – Intermediate Interactive Lecture Sue Bowler, CBA Join Sue as she shares her designs and combines real marketing advice and in-store display tips for added impact with Bubble Balloons and coordinating Microfoil and latex. [Read More]
In this ever-competitive retail world, it’s impulse buying that boosts retail sales, especially for the small specialty retailer. This class will give you design ideas and inspiration to boost that sale, from counter-top sales to impulse purchases. You will also get ideas on how to add value to your designs and create varied pricing points that appeal to all budgets. Sue will give you valuable tips on delivery methods, transportation, and counter-top marketing. If you have a retail store, this is one class you can’t afford to miss!
Deco Twisting – Intermediate/Advanced Interactive Lecture Robbie Furman, CBA
Decor With REALLY BIG Balloons – Intermediate Interactive Lecture David Taylor, CBA Mastering the giants of the balloon industry can be challenging! Join David as he demonstrates several methods for making this area seem effortless with a focus on giant 5' to 2 meter Chloroprene balloons. You’ll learn building and rigging techniques, as well as selling strategies. This class will also help you build confidence and credibility to keep customers and build your business. [Read More]
Working with giant Chloroprene balloons can be quite daunting. David will demonstrate sellable creations with several different effects incorporating material and signage, how to seal the balloons effectively, and how to create amazing effects by combining the balloon with other elements. You will gain confidence in working with these balloons so you can take on the bigger jobs and capture bigger clientele. David will share some of his key examples used to gain and keep the corporate client. Learn how to confidently show clients big ideas, execute them, and establish your business’ credibility.
Design on a Dime! – Intermediate Interactive Lecture Rocky Toomey, CBA, & Terry Toomey Rocky and Terry’s million-dollar clients come back over and over for one reason: Rocky and Terry’s insistence on providing extraordinary value, even when times and budgets are tight. [Read More]
Creativity in business and design extends beyond the visual realm to the land where seeing materials in a new light and repurposing past decor brings extraordinary returns to client parties and balloon businesses alike. You’ll benefit from Rocky and Terry’s combined 60 years of experience of delivering awesome designs when resources are thin and miracles are required.
Executing the Perfect Balloon Drop – Intermediate Interactive Lecture Connie Iden-Monds, CBA Nothing creates more excitement at an event than a balloon drop. Learn how to create a flawless balloon drop including aspects such as the planning, tools, rigging mediums, and the use of nets and tubes. They can be small to large and a standard drop can be filled in a very short amount of time. There’s minimal investment for big profits. [Read More]
Join Connie as she shares her many years of success creating perfect balloon drops. In the class, you will cover interactive exercises on consultation techniques as well as quotation examples, health and safety, and risk assessment areas. You’ll also learn about the tools and equipment needed and construction of various drop mediums. Connie will discuss the best practices and systems for building, storing, transporting, and rigging of drops in both small and large venues.
Fantastic Foil Mix-Up – Intermediate Interactive Lecture David Taylor, CBA The class will demonstrate that high-impact decor can be achieved for the budget-conscious client. David will guide you through pricing for profit and discuss the type of language to use to sell designs to those difficult clients who are focused on price. He will also demonstrate creating designs ahead of time, minimizing on-site set up, and freeing up time to take on more work. [Read More]
This class will focus on two main areas: 1) design and products and 2) planning and preparation. Microfoil shapes are the inspiration behind David’s creations, as they add impact but allow you to stay within targeted price points by combining them with other coordinating balloons. David believes that the key to success is planning and preparation; creating designs in advance minimizes on-site set up and frees up your time so you can take on more work. David’s tips for prepping, treating, storing, and transporting designs will thrill you! David will also help you to understand pricing structure, profit margins, and perceived value. Armed with a new collection of designs and the understanding of how to price them, David will give you the essential tools to create and sell new designs to your clients.
Firm Framing for Fun Fantasy – Intermediate/Advanced Lecture and Lab Luc Bertrand, CBA Being able to create unique framed designs can be quite challenging. If the frame is out of proportion or not the right shape, then your entire design will be distorted. Join Luc as he shares his many years of experience and guides you through framing to make your jobs run with ease. [Read More]
In this class, Luc will share his knowledge of framing, from easy styles to more advanced techniques. Whether for a corporate client or simply a fun creation, Luc will share the latest techniques, materials, and equipment used for rigging as well as stability advice, selling tips, and marketing ideas. For those lucky enough to join Luc on the lab session, you will have the opportunity to work with him in building small structures which will be combined to form one large composition, putting into practice what you have learned.
Grand Gala Centerpiece Production – Intermediate Hands-on Alex Arroyo, CBA, & Pepe Posada, CBA Join Alex and Pepe for a special hands-on workshop building the centerpieces for the WBC 2012 Grand Gala. You’ll participate in producing multiple designs while learning real-world production techniques from these centerpiece maestros. [Read More]
Creating centerpieces — especially in large quantities — is a skilled project, and one which is essential to master if you wish to enter the world of corporate events. Understanding production set-up, times, costs, and labor alone can be daunting aside from initial design and concept consultation. Alex and Pepe will show you the right equipment, techniques, and styles for designing the pieces with hands-on experience, as well as how to execute the best consultation. They will also explain writing and fulfilling orders for gala events, where the centerpiece budget can run into the thousands. Alex and Pepe will guide you through the “system approach,” and you will gain the self-confidence and ability to sell and execute centerpiece designs for large events. So bring your tools, push up your sleeves, and get ready to build!
Latino Expression! – Intermediate/Advanced Interactive Lecture Said Rebollar, CBA This class will focus on deliveries with a Latino flair! Said has many years of experience within the balloon world and a lifetime of Latin style; combined together, this makes a creative and refreshing class for WBC 2012. [Read More]
In this class, you will learn how to create a selection of deliverable designs that make perfect gifts, and Said will teach you the benefits of extending your business into the Latino market. He will focus on bueno, bonito y barato (good, nice, and inexpensive), and share how to sell delivery designs and price them for profit. Said will also show delegates valuable add-ons for increasing sales, with innovative designs along with a wealth of business support.
Magical Wedding Moments – Intermediate Interactive Lecture Steven Mayhew, CBA A stunning array of wedding decor — from setting the mood to selling the emotion — this creative class with added special effects is a must to develop and grow your wedding offerings. [Read More]
Beautiful room decor is essential to setting the mood for a wedding, but focusing on those special moments is what will make your clients’ day truly memorable. From the cake-cutting ceremony to the first dance, Steven will show you how to focus on your bride-to-be's personality and offer those special up-sells that will take any event to the next level. Steven will incorporate Conwin's Confetti Cannons and Exploders into new design concepts and color combinations that will make the guests "ohh" and "ahhh!" A script for each design will assist you when giving quotes over the phone, or at job site consultations. From add-ons to special effects, Steven's focus will be on increasing perceived value and showing you how to achieve higher profits for those magical wedding moments.
Mazel Tov! It’s a Mitzvah! — Intermediate Interactive Lecture Amanda Armstrong, CBA Learn how to target the Mitzvah market by expanding your knowledge of this popular Jewish celebration (Simcha). You’ll learn how service, creativity, and sensitivity come together in creating special client relationships and repeat orders. [Read More]
Breaking into this market can be challenging. Amanda will guide you through the marketing strategies she has implemented over the years in her own business and show you how to build and nurture client relationships by understanding their needs, wants, and priorities. As the Mitzvah market is quite specialized, there are several key areas of focus when holding a consultation. Amanda will fuse the demonstrated designs and the most popular themes with stand-alone pieces, each with simple add-ons for up-selling to allow you to target various pricing points. Make your company the one talked about within this community and find a fast track to success by applying Amanda’s experiences and key guidelines!
Shy Characters – Intermediate Interactive Lecture Federico Onida, CBA See Federico’s all new and shamelessly cute collection of “shy characters.” You’ll love how each character helps increase your profits, especially on occasions such as anniversaries or Valentine's Day! Federico has been working hard to design a collection that’s perfect for deliveries, theme decor, and perfect for you. [Read More]
Federico’s “shy characters” are made with 646Q bodies, and hold the balloon ribbon to the back to heighten their “shyness.” These new and cute Duck, Dog, Bear, and Rabbit characters are ideal for retailers as they are all not so difficult to create and offer countless interchangeable possibilities. You won’t be shy as your profits soar and your counter-top impulse purchases take off with these irresistible creations.
Simply Fabulous to Fabulously Simple Table Decor– Intermediate Interactive Lecture Sue Bowler, CBA
The Art of Balloon Canopies from Simple to Sensational! – Intermediate Hands-on Jean Eddy, CBA, & Lisa Swiger, CBA Join Jean and Lisa as they unlock the secrets to simple, fool-proof methods of canopy construction that will guarantee professional results in half the time, every time. In this class, you will learn clever ideas for canopy themes, how to enhance canopies with special effects, and the secrets to successful canopy sales. This fully hands-on, confidence-building class is guaranteed to motivate you and increase your canopy sales for your brides and corporate clients! [Read More]
Jean and Lisa have a combined wealth of knowledge in this area and make the perfect team. Whether you want to sell a full-dome top or scaled-down version, they will put you on the road to success. Jean and Lisa will also help you understand the formulas you will need to calculate a canopy, as well as how to provide an estimate on the number of balloons, gas, and framework needed beforehand so you can produce accurate quotations combined with the selling benefits and pricing guides.
Thursday Night Theme Party Decor Accents – Intermediate Hands-on Keith Stirman, CBA, & Dominic Cassidy ,CBA Join Dominic and Keith for this fun-filled, high-energy hands-on class building themed decor for the Thursday Night Costume Party! With plentiful ideas to add impact to the room, this team will inspire and even show you how you can create fabulous decor. [Read More]
Having hands-on experience is the very best way to learn and master balloon techniques; it’s like a balloon jam for decorators! Set yourself up from the start and join in not only for the fun, but also for the best learning activity with great one-on-one support. Whether you are new to balloons or a balloon veteran, hands-on classes are ideal; they are a great way to meet fellow professionals, which enhances your WBC experience. You will be proud of your contribution and efforts at the party when you see the designs all in one room. You will also have great photos to take away and start building your company portfolio. Dominic and Keith will work with you on the Job Cost Form to help you understand not only how to create the designs but what to charge for them and the benefit of perceived value through some simple costing exercises.
Twisted Gifts (Motivation, Confidence, Presentation) – Intermediate Interactive Lecture Tom Saeys, CBA In this class, you will learn how to create a fun collection of twisted gift ideas that will impress your customers and create impulse purchases. You will also learn Tom‘s expert techniques in motivation, confidence, and presentation. [Read More]
This class is designed to show the retail market intriguing twisted gift ideas for everyday sales, with a variety of techniques at multiple price points. Once Tom has demonstrated his collection, he will focus on the presentation and delivery, giving you motivation, teaching you confidence, and sharing many ideas as well as carrying out exercises on personal delivery and presentation skills.
Unique Columns & Arches – Intermediate Interactive Lecture Andrey Osokin, CBA, & Dmitriy Tishenko, CBA Learn how to create unique Columns and Arches that will delight your customers and increase your profits. These business partners specialize in creating interactive designs that tell a story, create repeat customers, and generate unstoppable word-of-mouth advertising. [Read More]
Dmitriy and Andrey have a unique eye for creating decor that is both interactive and engaging; each piece in their portfolio is stunning with attention to detail. They will share their own experiences of how to market these pieces and build your business to new heights of success. The will also give pricing guidance to help you integrate this style into your own portfolio offerings.
Wearable Costumes & Hats for Children’s Parties – Intermediate Interactive Lecture Debbie Stevens Debbie is bursting with creative ideas to share with delegates at WBC 2012. She is not only a highly energetic and creative person, but also has a great business aptitude. Debbie understands the importance of creating a client base, and whether you are an entertainer or decorator, this class will be insightful. Debbie will show you her new large balloon hats and costumes and how they will benefit your next event. These costumes and hats can be themed for a party, holiday, or special occasion. With these costumes and hats you are guaranteed to stand out. [Read More]
You will gain an understanding of your customers’ needs, how to target your marketing, and how to create demand in your home town! Debbie has a fresh and exciting collection of wearable creations to share with delegates from themed costumes to an array of hats. Each design will showcase techniques, precision, and design inspirations. Debbie will demonstrate how to up-sell clients, market costumes and hats for events, and price for profit. Join Debbie as she shows you how to take advantage of expanding your business into this fun area of balloon art.
646Q Go Big!! – Intermediate Interactive Lecture Debbie Stevens Learn how to utilize the enormous potential of 646Q balloons with deco-twisted designs for both decorators and retailers. You will learn simple add-ons for up-selling to suit a variety of budgets, and how to combine them with Microfoils and latex for maximum product potential. [Read More]
The 646Q balloon is an essential part of a balloon artists’ tool kit. It is highly versatile and can create a big impact at a low cost. Debbie will demonstrate an array of designs created with 646Q balloons. Debbie loves making characters with this balloon, and has designed a collection of designs that are both appealing and unique. She will teach you how to up-sell your clients to these irresistible characters, making more money at each event. Lock in your potential for repeat and new customers — being unique really helps you stand above and beyond your competition.
Advanced Classes If you have at least three years of experience in the balloon industry, then you’re eligible to attend the advanced level classes. You should have mastered all basic balloon techniques. Applications of theory are often addressed, including formulas, elements of design, and cost analysis, so you should be knowledgeable in these areas. Questions related to basic industry knowledge and trade terminology will not be addressed. Asian Infused Sculpture – Advanced Interactive Lecture Azusa Ieizumi, CBA Winner of Master Large Sculpture at the World Balloon Art Challenge Thailand and many other sculpture competitions, Azusa has an abundance of experience. She is passionate about creating pieces full of emotion and impact and is excited to share this passion with delegates. [Read More]
Azusa’s class will focus on stunning large sculptures that don’t require complicated framing, making it easier for small teams or individuals to feel confident, reducing the overall budget, and creating more perceived value and opportunity for higher profits. Azusa will also share how her pieces have helped her business reputation and growth through marketing campaigns and coverage. You won’t want to miss out on this new and exciting class!
Balloon Dress Design – Advanced Interactive Lecture and Lab Debbie Stevens Debbie will show you how to design a stunning balloon dress, and show examples of pattern weaves, precision techniques, and the many styles that have propelled her world-wide accolades. She will also give guides for time allocation and sure-fire money-making tips. You too will be on your way to creating unique designer-style dresses of your very own. [Read More]
Debbie is a talented balloon artist with a passion for precision and a natural understanding of how a garment can be created, making her the perfect choice to share her knowledge with delegates at the WBC 2012. She is well known for her dress collection and unique style and is full of energy. Debbie will teach you her precision techniques as well as tricks and tips that will save you time and energy. You will also receive invaluable marketing tips to help you use balloon dresses as a marketing tool to advertise your business, gaining access into the fashion world, exhibitions, and corporate events. For those who have the incredible opportunity to participate in Debbie’s lab class, you will be able to work alongside her, ask questions, and get to build an amazing garment of your own.
Balloon Dolls – Advanced Interactive Lecture Azusa Ieizumi, CBA Azusa is delighted to be back at WBC 2012 and share her latest top-selling compositions, Balloon Dolls. In this class, Azusa will share techniques for creating the eyes, nose, hair, and body parts of her characters and demonstrate how to create a range of characters. [Read More]
Famous for her polished and perfectly pitched sense of style, Azusa will give extra attention to the key techniques that give her characters their Asian flair. These designs are some of Azusa’s top-selling characters, and they are sure to be popular and a benefit to your business.
Beyond Design & Production Part 1 & Part 2 plus Lab — Advanced Interactive Lecture Rocky Toomey, CBA, & Terry Mulryan Toomey Rocky and Terry are award-winning special event producers and balloon professionals with decades of experience producing events unmatched in our industry. This special, intensive three-part session incorporates detailed lectures and a special hands-on training lab. NOTE: This is a special three-part session. Those who sign up for this class must attend all sessions (two lectures and lab), have experience in both balloon decor and event coordination, and must be willing to actively participate in the hands-on lab session. It is reserved for those who are serious about learning the skills and systems necessary to be a player in the special events community. [Read More]
Rocky and Terry will walk delegates through the steps needed to design effective events in any venue for any budget. Their system and philosophy incorporates all of the senses (sight/color, smell, taste, sound, touch) and delineates a specific design process that is virtually guaranteed to produce positive results. Rocky and Terry combine the benefits of organized templates and systems with strong creative processes that result in unique solutions for their clients. A heavy emphasis is placed on developing your ability to design and explain custom experiences so that you can “up-sell” the most demanding clients while ensuring nothing but success for your clients and your business.
Bubble Chain — Advanced Interactive Lecture and Lab Alberto Falcone, CBA Alberto is a master at turning a simple balloon into a collection of highly sellable designs. He’s worked hard to create an amazing new collection of unique designs using 15" solid-color Bubble Balloons will astound you, confound your competitors, and delight your clients. [Read More]
In this class, Alberto will teach designs based around the 15" solid-color Bubble Balloon. Once you have mastered the techniques, you will be able to create your very own collection of unique designs to add to your portfolio from garland, String-of-Pearl Arches, walls, and several delivery designs. You will also receive pricing guides for selling this technique. Many of Alberto’s pieces are inspirational and will give you the design edge over your competitors at prices guaranteed to bring you profits!
Russian Sculpture Design – Advanced Interactive Lecture Andrey Osokin, CBA, & Dmitriy Tishenko, CBA In this class, Dmitriy and Andrey will showcase some of their best sculptural pieces from characters to detailed elements and demonstrate advanced techniques for your next breathtaking masterpiece. This inspirational duo has put together a class that will not only inspire you, but motivate you to join in at the next competition. [Read More]
The idea of building a sculpture for a competition can be very daunting, but this duo will teach you all you need to know about the planning and preparation. In this class, Andrey and Dmitriy will share two key factors in sculpture design: the creative part and the marketing and growth opportunities from these creations. They will demonstrate some of the techniques from the initial concept, designing, planning, and preparations to specific design elements, such as their amazing character building, deco-twisting skills, and finishing touches. Entering a competition can be a great way to propel your company into this industry. Whether you win or not, the design itself can be used as a promotional tool after the event, opening a whole new world of opportunities. They will give you guidance on how to market your company through the press and local media and build your portfolio to make these pieces a key feature. If you are looking for an advanced challenge, this class is a must on your WBC roster!
Twisted Sculptures – Advanced Interactive Lecture Robbie Furman, CBA Learn how to make creative, fun, interactive twisted sculptures! Robbie is famous for creating a presence with larger-than-life twisted sculptures. And, now you can learn this art from the master! [Read More]
Robbie will share many techniques for creating several designs in the large Non-round twisted sculptures area. These creations are great sellers for photo backdrops and interactive designs. Robbie will not only share the practical elements, but will provide selling advice and his marketing ideas that have proven successful in his own business. Be prepared for this high-energy session with our big-hearted Robbie!
Weddings with Italian Flair — Advanced Interactive Lecture Alberto Falcone, CBA An Italian-injected wedding seminar full of flair and advanced techniques! This class focuses on ornate Columns, and entryways. Alberto will once again bring an array of sellable ideas fused with his Italian style. [Read More]
Alberto is a highly creative designer with designs that sell themselves. Selling wedding decor can be just as daunting as learning a new technique, but Alberto makes this transition seem effortless. He will teach you the key areas to focus on when going to a consultation. He will help you think of the main areas for a bride and groom on their big day, and how you can build a scene for those special moments. Whether you are a retailer or decorator, this class is a must for building your wedding portfolio, learning advanced design style and techniques, as well as the selling skills to incorporate these designs.
All Levels Classes Failure Is Not An Option – All Levels Interactive Lecture & Hands-on Pat Billups, CBA Failing to plan is planning to fail. Join finance and marketing expert (and balloon business guru) Pat Billups to learn how to set your company on a path for success. You’ll learn how to re-evaluate your goals and aspirations and clarify how to achieve them through the development of a simple, successful business plan. Plus, you’ll receive solid advice from Pat who can support you all the way to the top. [Read More]
This is an intensive session, taking you from no business plan to a concrete document in its early stages of development. Come ready to consider the realities of your business and put to paper how you intend to grow and profit. This session will cover several key areas including gaining a better understanding of your business, developing the initial version of a working business plan, learning how to significantly increase the probability of meeting business goals, and establishing a greater understanding of what a business owner needs to know!
 Intensive Twisting Workshop – All Levels Interactive Lecture & Hands-on Robbie Furman, CBA; Manon Dudziak; & Tom Saeys, CBA Tom, Manon and Robbie — are joining forces to bring you an intensive educational and business-focused entertainer workshop. This four-hour class is packed with techniques for twisting, starting your business, growing your identity, and taking your company to the next level. The workshop focuses on the many different areas of entertainment, including line work, street performance, stage performance, sculpture building, balloon fashion, and so much more. This brand-new, mind-blowing intensive workshop is only at WBC 2012! [Read More]
This intensive class is brought to you by some of the industry’s top twisting instructors: Tom Saeys, Manon Dudziak, and Robbie Furman, with input from many other leading instructors. This class aims to take those interested in twisting from the very basic steps up to a more confident level. You will cover many hands-on designs to ensure that you understand the twisting techniques that are being shown. Plus, you will grow in confidence not only with your twisting skills, but also in how you apply them to your performance and business. This session will also look at the performance side of twisting and how to come across in a more appealing way to audiences/clients.
More Sales, Bigger Jobs (Intensive Marketing Workshop) – All Levels Interactive Lecture Pat Billups, CBA, & Tim Vlamis, CBA This four-hour intensive course is a first for WBC! Lead by multiple master’s degree holder Pat Billups and marketing professor Tim Vlamis, it will be an insightful, educational, and powerful business growth opportunity. You’ll learn exactly how to build a professional marketing plan for your business and your situation. This refreshing intensive workshop has been scheduled prior to the main program so you can take advantage early on and start the WBC 2012 on a profitable note. [Read More]
This is an intensive 4-hour workshop that takes you through many aspects of marketing your business including segmentation analysis and target marketing, internet marketing guidelines and best practices, advertising plans that generate leads and superior returns, and differentiation exercises that align your unique capabilities with your customers’ needs. Come prepared for serious work on what your business offers and how your customers perceive it. At the end of this class, you will have a working road map to help you market your business for greater sales and higher profits. If you register for this class, you will begin the process well before you arrive at WBC, changing your convention experience like never before.
Key focus areas:
Positioning your Business in the Market– All Levels Interactive Lecture Cam Woody, CBA In this class, you will learn how to present your company through different marketing mediums, including a portfolio, business stationary, logo, and online presence. [Read More]
Cam has many years of experience working within advertising, graphic design, publications, and web management. She has a vast understanding of the industry and a keen eye for design and detail. Using this wealth of knowledge, Cam has designed this class to focus on the visual aspect of your company, from the initial concept of creating a name and branding to building or refreshing your current look. There are many things you need to consider when designing your brand from the name, logo, font style, size, and colors. She will teach you their importance and how to create a consistent look for your business throughout your marketing materials. Let Cam put you on the road to success!
Retail Master Class 1 — All Levels Interactive Lecture Brenda Fink, CBA This course is designed for retail shops that already sell simple bouquets, but want to offer more innovative bouquets and deliveries. [Read More]
You’ll learn how to:
Retail Master Class 2 — All Levels Interactive Lecture Brenda Fink, CBA This course is part two for retail shops that already sell simple bouquets, but want to offer more innovative bouquets and deliveries. In this class, Brenda will focus on displays and best business practices including: [Read More]
Speed Decorating – All Levels Interactive Lecture & Hands-on Keith Stirman, CBA, & Dominic Cassidy, CBA Dominic and Keith are a high-energy team ready to help you succeed. This class is all about business efficiency, speeding up your work while ensuring high quality. Keith and Dominic thrive on systems approaches and they will share with you how their proven systems will help your business run more efficiently. They will teach you tips and tricks for improving job timelines without affecting the quality of work produced. [Read More]
You will learn good working practices, key techniques, organizational skills, and a streamlined ordering system. Additionally, you’ll review health, safety, and risk-assessment documents. You will also learn a gas and balloon calculation system to insure an efficient pricing structure. This duo will bring all of this together with real-life examples from their successful business. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn all of these techniques and implement them back into your business.
Social Media Practices that Make More Money – All Levels Interactive Lecture Chelsea Gaspard, CBA Many people question if Social Media is worth taking time out of your business. The answer to that really depends on how you’re using your networks and how much time you’re spending on them. The only way to know if it’s worth your time is to measure the return. In this class, you’ll learn Social Media Best Practices that include time management, monitoring tools, social selling techniques, and even some DOs and DON’Ts in social marketing. [Read More]
Social Media has become a necessary tool in everyday business. It has fundamentally changed the way we communicate and provides mass communication with low costs and high impact. Chelsea will teach you how to correctly execute social media within a business. This is your chance to let our social media expert help you understand and benefit from this new marketing opportunity.
Success with Simple Things – All Levels Interactive Lecture Manon Dudziak
Ventas y Marketing del Sector Latino! (Sales and Marketing for the Latin Sector!) – All Levels Interactive Lecture Said Rebollar, CBA In this class, you’ll receive a recipe for managing and growing your business for success. Said will be working primarily from the principles of the Qualatex Balloon Network Program structure to bring you real-life examples and exercises. [Read More]
Said will incorporate exercises to help you successfully carry out market research and better understand your customers. He will also demonstrate completing a consultation, writing a quote, and invoicing with terms, conditions, and contract information.
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