When you have an event coming up, Balloon Distractions is the place to go. Balloon Distractions supplies balloon artists to venues such as restaurants, parties, and conventions.
Have you ever wondered to what extent is it possible to earn a life by stringing balloons together? A far larger sum of money than you would have expected.
Alexander developed a one-of-a-kind franchise opportunity called Balloon Distractions, where you can get started for less than $100.
You may find hundreds of video instructions on YouTube if you’ve wanted to know how to build various fascinating things with balloons.
The tutorials show some simple tasks, such as tying balloons into shapes, and progress to more complex ones, such as constructing a whole outfit using balloons.
Are They Still an Active Company?
Although the website appears to have been recently updated and includes postings that suggest it is being kept current, Balloon Distractions’ social media accounts appear dead, with the most recent post from August 2014.
As a result of the low-profit margins, Balloon Distractions appears to operate at a non-existent level. The firm has teamed with major chains, including Applebee’s, Red Robin, Chili’s, Max & Erma, and several other family-friendly businesses.
Balloon Distractions was considered to be in operation, but the lack of new updates suggests it may be on life support. It is also possible that the company Balloon distractions may have ceased operations.
How Did the Shark Tank Pitch Go?
When he went to the Shark Tank, Ben asked for $250,000 in exchange for a 30% stake in his firm, Balloon Distractions.
His company educates balloon artists to entertain children and guests when they wait for meals in restaurants and other settings.
Ben seemed so excited, and his enthusiasm made Kevin O’Leary worry that he “might spontaneously combust,” but Mr. Wonderful seemed more interested in discussing the figures linked with the firm.
With nearly $4 million in cumulative sales, Ben revealed that they had been making more than $500,000 a year in sales.
When he told the Sharks that the sales had decreased from $650,000 to $500,000 a year due to the shifting economic climate and online abuse from the “clown community,” they got alarmed.
“Regional partners” were hired to travel into a region and employ the real musicians who manage their restaurant reservations.
It costs $40-60 to dine at a restaurant, and the artists wear a $5 note as a tipping pin. Ben intended to expand his company by opening franchisees.
Mark Cuban thought that the franchise concept was a very insane idea. Robert Herjavec told Ben that he didn’t need any franchise.
Robert told Ben that people are required to administer the infrastructure that must be put in place. He told him there was no way he could pay him $250,000 and have a huge return on his investment. He said that he should leave.
Barbara Corcoran thought Ben was a “phenomenal salesman” but “not a sales manager.” She also became reluctant.
Lori Greiner was baffled by the company’s strategy, and she also went out. According to Mark Cuban, the company was “organized incorrectly.”
Kevin O’Leary agreed, and he didn’t think Ben’s company structure worked well and didn’t know he was ready for either of him. Without a Shark deal in hand, Ben exited the Tank.
However, he continued to work for his company. Also, the Balloon Distractions website appears alive but out of business.
A blog post indicates that Ben is taking a break from blogging to work on a book and pursue his “Life Leadership” interests, including writing a book and speaking engagements.
Sharks seemed to be on the money with the venture. Some of the musicians that perform at restaurant performances and other events have taken issue with this economic model since they aren’t used to working for tips.
Even professional balloon painters and clowns have taken to YouTube in reaction to threats of legal action against Balloon Distractions to criticize and parody the company’s products.
People may jeopardize a company’s long-term success if it alienates the very people it needs for its workforce.
A strong sales background helped Ben compensate for his lack of management expertise, but apparently, it was not enough. The company is no longer in operation.
Our Review of Balloon Distractions
Since the company is no longer operating, we could not test the service.
Pros of Balloon Distractions
- Balloon Distractions offered all customers an hourly rate. This rate was dependent on the current market conditions.
- All their performers were 1099 independent contractors, meaning they could market their services outside the restaurant’s normal business hours.
- There was no restriction on where you could have your event planned, and the options to choose the venue were endless.
Cons of Balloon Distractions
- None
Who Is Balloon Distractions For?
Balloon Distractions was created for kids and toddlers.
Are There Any Alternatives?
None
Our Final Thoughts
When Ben Alexander founded Balloon Distractions in 2003, it was a talent agency specializing in supplying balloon artists to venues such as restaurants, parties, and conventions.
Booking services like this was possible by collecting a share of the revenue from artists who used the service to obtain jobs.
When Ben started, he worked with various restaurants, including Chili’s and Red Robin. He also had a partnership with Red Robin, which allowed him to open restaurants in many markets.
Ben had wanted to take his concept across the country, but he eventually shut down the firm and is now employed by Tampa Bay Solar in the solar industry.
