Put Your Business on the Map (Literally)

Let’s play a quick game:
Where’s the best place to hide a dead body?
Answer: The second page of Google.

Yup, it’s a joke—but also totally true.

If your business isn’t showing up on the first page of Google, you’re basically invisible. The good news? There’s a surprisingly simple way to change that… even if you don’t have a storefront.

My #1 Tip to Show Up on Google

It’s called  Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business), and it’s the fastest way to literally put your business on the map.

You’ve seen it before: you search for something (like tacos, in my case), and a little map shows up with businesses nearby. That’s Google Business in action.

And here’s the kicker: most balloon pros aren’t doing this, especially if they work from home. That means you can show up first in your area with almost no competition.

“But I Work From Home…”

Same here! I don’t have a storefront, but I still show up on the map when someone searches for “balloon decor near me.” Here’s how it works:

1. Go to Google Business Profile
   Set up your profile and claim your business.

2. Enter Your Home Address (Don’t Panic!)
   You have to enter an address so Google can verify your business. But don’t worry—there’s a checkbox that lets you hide your address from the public.

3. Select a Service Area Instead of a Physical Location
   This is perfect for mobile balloon businesses. I set mine to a 50-mile radius around Lake Geneva, WI.

4. Verify with a Mailed Code
   Google will send you a postcard with a code. Enter it, and boom—you're official.

That’s it!

Why This Matters

Even if your website is brand new and buried 10 pages deep in search results, you can still rank first in your area just by being on the map. In my town, it’s literally me and the Dollar Store. That’s the whole list.

So don’t skip this because you’re home-based. You don’t need a showroom to show up.

TL;DR: Here’s What to Do

✅ Head to Google Business Profile
✅ Register your business using your home address (but hide it)
✅ Set a local service area
✅ Verify with the mailed code
✅ Watch your local visibility skyrocket

Let me know if you try it—I love hearing your success stories.

Until next time, keep it bright and light ✨
—Sara

Have you subscribed to the podcast yet? Check out the episode link below and subscribe while you're there!