Home-based balloon decor for parties

Parents, friends planning showers and graduations, small venues and local party planners.

A fixed price per order or package, usually based on size and design, with extra fees for delivery, setup and rush jobs.

• Creative eye for colour and shape
• Patience and steady hands
• Friendly customer communication
• Good time planning around event dates

• Check whether your municipality requires a home-based business licence
• Commercial general liability insurance is worth checking, especially if you set up at venues
• Latex balloons can be a concern for allergies, so ask clients and offer alternatives when needed
• Helium cost and supply, and balloons losing shape in heat or humidity, can affect deadlines
• Registering for GST/HST may be needed once revenue passes the small supplier threshold, so check with the CRA

Startup costs are estimated at typically around $300 to $1,500, depending on how many balloons, tools and display samples you buy at the start. Helium cost and supply can also affect your budget.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $300 to $2,500, depending on how many orders you take and what you charge for garlands, arches and bouquets. Orders often bunch around event dates.

Check whether your municipality requires a home-based business licence, and consider commercial general liability insurance, especially if you set up at venues. Check GST/HST with the CRA once revenue passes the small supplier threshold, and ask clients about latex allergies.