How Megan Pivoted Her Balloon Business Outdoors—and Thrived

When the pandemic brought parties and events to a halt, balloon artists everywhere were left wondering what to do next. For Megan, founder of North Shore Balloon Decor, the answer was to take her balloon business outdoors.

In episode 26 of The Bright Balloon Podcast, Megan shares how she used that inspiration—and a ton of hustle—to transform her business from face painting to full-time outdoor balloon decor, even in the harsh Chicago winters.

From Face Paint to Foil 

Megan didn’t start as a balloon artist. Her original business focused on children’s entertainment, including face painting. But as client requests evolved and the pandemic dried up in-person gigs, Megan pivoted—hard.

She began offering yard balloon decor, replicating the celebration style of lawn card companies, but with balloons. Partnering with local entrepreneurs, she picked up overflow clients and began building her reputation as a go-to source for outdoor balloon installations.

Her strategy? Share generously. She launched a Facebook group that quickly became a hub of support and creativity for balloon artists nationwide. Her ideas, installation tips, and approachable style helped many businesses stay afloat—and even thrive—during the most uncertain times.

Cold Weather? No Problem.

Now a full-time balloon artist, Megan has learned how to adapt her setups to handle harsh winter conditions. Her go-to strategies include:

• Inflating foil balloons indoors and topping them off onsite

• Prepping adhesives inside, where they’re more effective

• Using sturdier materials like conduit and drills in place of garden stakes

Megan says balloons actually perform better in the cold than in summer heat, and she’s had installs last up to 10 days—even in freezing temps.

Running Lean with Smart Outsourcing

Instead of hiring a full team, Megan keeps her business nimble. She outsources personal tasks like cooking and cleaning, allowing her to stay focused on the creative work she enjoys most. Her philosophy? If someone else can do it for less than her hourly rate, it’s worth delegating.

This mindset allows her to stay lean, profitable, and energized—even during busy seasons. “If I’m making $200 an hour installing balloons,” she says, “I don’t need to be doing dishes.”

Teaching and Inspiring Others

Megan continues to lead and educate the balloon community. Whether you’re brand new to balloons or looking to optimize your business, Megan’s story is a powerful reminder that tough seasons can create the most meaningful growth.

Listen to the episode 26 of The Bright Balloon Podcast to hear Megan’s full story, her winter install tips, and why outsourcing your weaknesses might be the smartest move you make this year.