March 3, 2026

404. Building a balloon empire

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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 Ali 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 Ali 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!

 

Unlock three free bonus episodes! 

 

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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