Last weekend saw 20 balloon artists from across the UK coming together to take part in The BIG Build 2018 and create an enchanted forest for local children.
Last summer saw Samuel Stamp-Dod of VIP Balloons in Ipswich create the first ever Balloon Forest in Ipswich – but this year it got bigger! The beautiful venue was completely transformed into an enchanted forest, ready for three days of activities for children to enjoy during their school holidays.
Samuel was joined, for the second time, by Natalie Saunders and Mike Hurst, who helped lead the delegates in hands-on workshops in the art of organic sculpture building, Quicklink design, air-filled table décor as well as some balloon twisting.
“It was great to have such talented people all join together in one room,” said Samuel. “I love finding out how other people run their businesses and solve the same problems we all face.”
The workshops were supported by BAPIA and Balloon Market and were open to anyone with an interest in working with balloons.
Once the forest was built, VIP Balloons joined together with local entertainment companies to offer a full programme of activities for the local children to enjoy. There were princesses leading dancing, telling stories and craft sessions as well as a magic and bubble shows. Children also learnt how to create their own balloon models and added to the forest throughout the event.
“This event was so popular, both with balloon artists and the public, we are already planning another one!” explained Samuel.
To see what was created in more detail, see the 360* tours of both forests on the VIP Balloon website.
