Richfield Business Hopes to Showcase 'Balloons Beyond the Normal Scope'

A long-standing Richfield business since 1973, is hosting a fun-filled open house from 2-7 p.m. Saturday to celebrate its arrival in the Penn Central of Richfield neighborhood.

After spending many years on the east side of Richfield, Andon—which specializes in creating displays for corporate and larger events—recently moved near on the west side of town.

"We handle huge events with massive installations for corporate accounts," Andon's Katie Wolf told Richfield Patch. "While on the flip-side we can sell a single balloon to a little kid walking into the store."

In addition to introducing themselves in the neighborhood, Wolf said Saturday's event aims to show people what an art form the balloon business can be.

“We want to show people how much cool stuff can be done with balloons beyond the normal scope of people's past experience,” Wolf said.

Andon owner Dale Moore is currently the competition coordinator for the balloon art competition at the World Balloon Convention, which will take place in March 2012. As a past competitor, Moore has showcased his abilities to create large balloon sculptures and event goers will see his skills in action Saturday.

Saturday’s event will feature a storewide holiday balloon display, cookies, cider, balloon twister artists, face painting and a visit from Santa himself. Santa will be in attendance from 5-7 p.m. There will also be a prize drawing, with the top prize being a $50 gift card to Hub Hobby Center. The event is free and open to the public.