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Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender
- Woodridge, IL
- Balloon Twister
- Travels up to 0.3 hours
- $0.00 - $1000.00
Overview
Hi, my name is Rich Dunn and I have been a Balloon Artist (balloon twister) for over 25 years, entertaining at birthday parties, company and church events, schools, family picnics, block parties, festivals, and anywhere kids are having fun! My style of high-energy entertaining is best suited for kids' parties making unique designs on request.
Is your event going to need more entertainment besides just balloon art? If you think that having a professional face painter at the party would be fun as well, my wife, Sue, would be delighted to offer her services to you for the same event. She can also help with some of the balloon twisting. Both of us together are more than twice as fun!
51 Reviews
Uncle Rich did a fantastic job! He was entertaining and funny to the kids and his balloon creations were impressive. This was for my son’s five year old birthday party. I will definitely use him again if I need another balloon artist!
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much, Elizabeth! It was an amazing carnival-themed party, and I loved being the balloon entertainer!
The kids at the party all loved Uncle Rich; he was very patient with all of them and made balloons almost nonstop for the 2 hours he was there! Boys had a whale of a time whacking each other with balloon swords while the girls had balloon animals made on demand. He was also so kind as to pick up all the popped balloon debris on our lawn from the kids near the end.. thank you Uncle Rich!!
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you so much for inviting me to be the balloon entertainer at your event! It was truly an enjoyable time, and everyone I met there was patient and kind.
If you would like some nice balloon creations for your son, please feel free to reach out to me. I would love to make a nicer design, something that takes time and creativity. There is no charge for this offer (and no expiration date).
Also, thank you very much for your generosity!
Rich Dunn
630-430-3279
I was so pleased with working with Rich for my children's birthday party. He was very friendly and great with the children! The adults had a blast with the balloons too. He kept the kids engaged and happy for the entire event. He was so artistic, and the balloon art was amazing! All of the kids kept talking about him after the party. I also was able to see his work prior to booking him and I knew I would get someone with high quality. I would highly recommend him for any event. He is very easy to get a hold of and his customer service is one in a million! I cannot wait to book him again for another event.
Uncle Rich was fantastic and a hit with the kids. Our party was chaotic and all over the place and he handled it like a champ and made the coolest balloon art. Thank you so much for making our little guy’s first birthday special!
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much, Amanda!
Being a small part of this special occasion was fun!
Rich Dunn - The Balloon Bender
Uncle Rich and his wife came and did balloons and face painting for 2 hours at our annual neighborhood party. They were on time, ready, and got started right away with the kids. They worked the whole time and made sure all the kids got what they wanted. This is the second time we've used them and I wouldn't hesitate to refer them for your party! Thank you both!
Balloon Twister, Face Painter
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much!
It was an enjoyable time for us as well!
Rich & Sue Dunn
Uncle Rich and Aunt Sue were amazing! The students loved their face paintings and balloons!! Parents were asking for their information for future parties 🥳. You can't go wrong with hiring them!
Balloon Twister, Face Painter
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much, Kristin!
The children were so much fun that we did not even notice how fast the time flew by!
Please let us know if you ever need help with another event.
And thank you for your incredible generosity!
Rich & Sue Dunn
630-430-3279
We hired Uncle Rich for my daughter's first birthday party. He was amazing with the kids and everybody loved him! The kids (and adults) couldn't get enough of all of the balloons.
Thank you Uncle Rich!
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much!
We booked Rich and Sue for our company Open House as a duo for balloon twisting and face painting. They did not disappoint! :)
They were very responsive, and punctual. The kids thoroughly enjoyed both of them. I hope to book them again for any future events our company may host.
Thanks, Rich and Sue, for all of your help in making this event a successful and enjoyable one.
Face Painter, Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much!
Rich & Sue Dunn
Woodridge, IL 60517
Uncle Rich was making balloons nonstop during our event and EVERYONE loved him! No request was too hard for him....we even saw a Taylor Swift balloon!!!
We hope to have the same event next year and if we do, Uncle Rich is our guy!
2 years now and we couldn't recommend him more.
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much!
Rich was amazing! Right on time and the kids flocked to him immediately. He twisted balloons for 2 hours and was so kind to the kids. I wouldn’t hesitate to hire him for another event! Thank you, Rich!
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much!
Uncle Rich was early to the event and started creating right away. He had great energy and was fun to talk to! The kids and adults all loved him and were impressed by his creations. He stayed about 15 mins past his end time as kids kept coming up for more which was greatly appreciated. Thanks Rich!
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much!
Uncle Rich did a show for our summer camp and he was amazing! He was very professional and gave fantastic balloon twists to all campers. Would hire him again!!!
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much!
Uncle Rich did an awesome job on Sunday keeping the children and adults (lol!) entertained with the balloon twisting!
Definitely a great entertainer!
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much!
The ladies who wanted balloon flower hats were a special bonus! -- LOL
I absolutely loved being your balloon entertainer.
Rich Dunn
Uncle Rich is great. Showed up on time, reasonably priced and great with the kids. Highly recommend him.
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much!
Rich was really awesome addition to the party, he walked around interacted with kids and made so many varieties of beautiful balloons , the kids absolutely loved it. Thank you much !!
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much!
Rich was incredible at my daughter's birthday. He is very prompt, great communication, reliable, friendly, and outgoing. Rich was great with all the kids, most of them were about 5/6yrs old, he did great. His professionalism blew me away. I will absolutely hire Rich again and again!
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very, very much!
I really appreciate your kindness, generosity, and encouraging words.
Let me know anytime your daughter needs a new balloon creation!
Rich Dunn
Rich was amazing all the kids loved him he started working very quickly and made sure no kid was left out
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much!
Uncle Rich was hit with kids. They loved him. He honored all their requests and kept them entertained. He was on time and got started right away. I would definitely recommend him to my friends.
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much!
Rich was so hard-working- he never stopped twisting for a second! The kids loved his work. I thought it was very nice that he stayed several minutes beyond our time commitment to finish the line of kids wanting his balloons.
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much!
Rich was great! He was on time and kept the kids entertained for the entire 2 hours he was here. Thanks!
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much!
Rich Dunn -- The Balloon Bender
www.CreativeBalloonArt.com
We hired Uncle Rich for a non-profit event over this past weekend. He was extremely flexible when I realized a made a mistake and went above and beyond my expectations! The kids (of all ages) loved the balloons and everyone was impressed with the artistry he brought to his craft. If we do this event again next year, we're hoping to have Uncle Rich back!! Thanks!
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much!
Uncle Rich was early and went right to work making balloons for all the kids at the party! He moved quickly and was kind to every child. Great to work with!
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much!
Uncle Rich and Aunt Sue were so kind, fun, and the kids loved them! Friends at my party asked for their info to book future parties. My birthday girl said, “This is the best birthday, ever!!”
Face Painter, Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much!
Birthday party with 25 kids - they all nearly lost their minds over the excitement of these balloon creations. Uncle Rich was so patient and kind with all the kids. Such a great experience!
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much, Summer!
Sorry that I did not get a chance to say goodbye, but everyone was busy with the pinata and my time was up so I did not want to interrupt.
Rich Dunn
Uncle Rich and Aunt Sue were fantastic for my son's 2nd birthday party. They were patient and kind in their interactions with all the kids. They arrived on top, had everything set up and were ready to go as planned. The kids were all excited to get their balloon animals and get their faces painted. Lots of compliments from the parents - thank you!!
Face Painter, Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much!
If you ever want another 'Elmo' balloon for your son, just let me know and I will make one at no charge! :)
Easy, smooth process to book. Rich and team did a great job entertaining the kids. Would recommend and not hesitate to use them again!
Face Painter, Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much!
Rich & Sue Dunn
Uncle Rich did a great job making sure the children were happy with the balloon person they asked him to create for them. He also stayed for us past his booking time to make sure each child had a balloon done.
I would highly recommend.
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much!
Rich Dunn - The Balloon Bender
Rich and Sue were absolutely amazing! The kids were obsessed with them both. I had booked an hour but they stayed 2. Probably could have stayed longer. Wonderful people and do a fantastic job. Thank you so much
Face Painter, Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much!
Perfect
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much!
I really appreciate your generosity!
Uncle Rich did a fantastic job at our sons 3rd Birthday Party, everyone loved all of the unique balloons he made for the kids - would definitely book him again! :)
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much, Katie! It was truly an amazing party you created!
Rich and his wife were an absolute delight. They are very talented and worked well with all the kids at the party. Thank you!
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much!
We really appreciate your generosity!
Rich & Sue
He was prompt, friendly, and the kids loved it!
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much!
Thankful for Uncle Rich. Super patient and friendly with the kids
Balloon Twister
Uncle Rich made our party, highly recommend 💖
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much, Anna!
We had Uncle Rich come to our 3 year old sons birthday party! There were 14 kids ages 3-5 and he accommodated everyone so well. His talent with balloon making is phenomenal! He was quick with impatient kids and so entertaining !
Uncle Rich was so amazing with the kids! He was able to fulfill every request, every wish :) The kids were entertained the whole time and loved interacting with him. His talent and ability to create just about anything was super impressive for the adults too. Uncle Rich is also so polite and professional. I will refer him and book him for all of our future events! My four year old daughter still talks about him. A MUST!
Uncle Rich was the best! Lots of laughs and happy kids! He was so kind, friendly and patient. Highly recommend!
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much!
Professional, friendly and efficient! 100% would use this team again and I highly recommend them!
Face Painter, Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much, Vicky! We also appreciate the fruit tray you gave to us. It was a very refreshing snack after we left your event.
Uncle Rich arrived early and stayed later! HR was prepared the second he walked in and had the kids entertained from the start!
Uncle Rich is awesome!
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much! :)
Uncle Rich is too cool and entertained all kids with his creative designs. Kids loved it. He is too kind to the kids and did all designs they asked for.
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much, Saravanan! With the unexpected change of location, I am so glad everything worked out well for your daughter's first birthday party. All of the kids there were patient, kind, and fun to entertain.
Uncle Rich did a great job, the kids and adults loved him. Would hire him again in a second.
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much!
Uncle Rich was great! He showed up at our party right on time and the kids loved him. He was patient with every single kiddo and listened to each request with interest. Would definitely hire him again!
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thanks for the review, Kevin!
If you or anyone of your friends and family would like one of the special balloon centerpieces, just have them contact me with their requests. I am always looking for new challenges and would rather make something that will be enjoyed by someone instead of making it just to throw into the garbage. There is no fee for this offer, no gratuities expected, and no obligation of any kind.
Uncle Rich -- The Balloon Bender
www.CreativeBalloonArt.com
Rich was so wonderful and talented! Can’t say enough good things. Everyone loved him. (6 months to 94)
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much!
He was funny and professional. The children loved him!
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much, Eleni. God Bless you and your family!
Rich was great with the kids and he handled the crowd so well! Thanks for a great event!
Balloon Twister
He was fantastic! The kids enjoyed him very much. He was super great & patient with the kids that were very picky lol ..Would definitely recommend him :)
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much, Cecilia! Your group was a lot of fun... and sometimes challenging... I Loved it! -- LOL!
If you're ever going to be in my neighborhood here in Woodridge, let me know and I will make another centerpiece for your office. No charge or obligation... just for fun!
Rich
Call or Text: 630-430-3279
Uncle Rich was an automatic hit with the kids! He was entertaining and his balloon art is super creative!
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much!
And I really appreciate your generosity!!
:)
Uncle Rich --- The Balloon Bender
Very professional very friendly. Kids were thrilled! And so creative and talented
Balloon Twister
Response from Uncle Rich - The Balloon Bender:
Thank you very much!
Kids had fun and enjoyed a lot.
Balloon Twister
Uncle Rich provided a great entertainment for the kids in the event, they completely engaged the kids with the face painting and balloon twisting arts. Very professional, friendly and the kids loved them. I would definetely recommend to any event especially involving kids. I would certainly hire them for any event of mine. Thank you.
Balloon Twister
Booking Info
Price Range: $0.00 - $1000.00
Gig Length: 30 - 500 minutes
Languages: English
Insurance: $1,000,000 - Liability
What to Expect
I'm a balloon twister and artist who specializes in entertaining children of any age. With over 25 years of experience with all kinds of events, I'll always bring my best work and an energetic attitude whenever you need it. By making unique designs on request, I can make sure that every child at your event has a memorable experience.
I practice many hours every week to make sure that I can always keep up with both simple requests and advanced designs. I'm used to dealing with the high demand that usually comes when a balloon twister shows up, and I always come prepared for the situation with plenty of balloons, samples, and giveaways to hand out to kids.
Is your event going to need more entertainment besides just balloon art? If you think that having a professional face painter at the party would be fun as well, my wife, Sue, would be delighted to offer her services to you for the same event. She can also help with some of the balloon art. Both of us together are more than twice as fun!
Thank you,
Rich Dunn - The Balloon Bender
Sue Dunn - The Face Painter
About
UNCLE RICH – THE BALLOON BENDER
Rich Dunn has been a Balloon Artist for over 25 years, entertaining at birthday parties, company and church events, schools, family picnics, block parties, festivals, and anywhere kids are having fun! His style of balloon entertainment is to ask each child what they would like to have made out of balloons and if it is possible to do in a few minutes he will make it for them. There are hundreds of different things he can make in 5 minutes each or less! If you have a large crowd, he can limit the choices to simple balloon designs that take about one minute each.
Always included at no extra charge is that he will bring a smiling face and joyful attitude for the entire time he is providing high-energy balloon entertainment for your guests. There are thousands of designs he can make, from the simplest one-balloon styles to the deluxe multi-balloon art types. He will come to your event fully prepared, having practiced many hours every week, and will be flexible to make either simple or deluxe designs depending on demand and time.
Prices for his balloon entertainment service depend mostly on the type of event, the number of children expected and amount of time that he will expect to be at the event location, day of the week and time of day, and the estimated travel time and expense. Most events are in the range of $100 to $750, with the average somewhere in the $150 to $200 range for small events located within a few miles of his home. If you have a small budget or are raising money for a charity, just let him know your situation and he will suggest solutions to help achieve the goals you set.
Here is what he will do for every party. First, he organizes over 1500 balloons in his balloon apron in order to be very efficient when needing to find a particular style and color for the amazing variety of designs that may be requested. Then he will make several other things as samples or as giveaways for the overwhelming demand that usually occurs when the Balloon Twister enters the event! If you have a particular theme, let him know in advance and he will make a detailed centerpiece to coordinate, like a superhero, princess, cartoon character, etc. These centerpieces are best displayed indoors, and they are not made with the intention of giving them to a child right away (however, it is yours do with as you please).
After about 4 hours of preparation, he will come to the location of your event energized and prepared to entertain children of all ages! Then he will start taking their requests, and at the same time goofing around with them while making their balloon choices. It may even look like he is having as much fun as they are… LOL!
AUNTIE SUE – THE FACE PAINTER
If you happen to be thinking about having a professional face painter, his wife would be delighted to provide her service as well (she also does simple balloon twisting). Have both of them for more than twice the fun!
FYI: We do not do stage shows, magic tricks, ice sculptures, fire eating, etc,
Additional Booking Notes
I do not need a table and chair at the event, although sometimes it is useful to have a table to set out samples and lists. Most parties serve food, and while I appreciate the offer to eat, it is very rare that I will accept. I have a meal before coming to your event so I have the fuel to produce the energy required to satisfy the little angels' requests. Even if I were to stop and eat, their requests would keep on and on and on! -LOL- So please don't take it as an insult if I decline your offer of a meal.
While it is true that I can make almost anything out of balloons, time and cost restrictions might override some requests. "I want a Fairy Castle big enough that I can play inside!" Most of everything that is made from balloons can be made in an unlimited amount of detail and variety. If there is a large demand for balloon things I will stay with the simpler, quicker designs taking 1 to 3 minutes each.
The balloons that are used in balloon animal twisting are thin and easily popped. There are no options with this art form, as they need to be flexible enough to allow very tight twists and bends. Having an event outdoors is the greatest challenge as they will pop when dropped, even on grass. That does not bother me as I will continue to make replacements as fast as humanly possible (at least as fast as THIS human can go). If you want some replacements after the event is over, please contact me for a reasonable number of freebies that I will make for you to pick up from my home in Woodridge. We don't want to endure an endless stream of tears, do we? If you want to preserve a balloon creation, it will last a long time in the freezer.
Services Offered
Setup Requirements
Not a stage show.