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The Polka Dot Man Balloons
- Silver Spring, MD
- Balloon Twister
- Travels up to 60 miles
- $ 135 and up
Overview
I specialize in providing clean, family friendly inflatable, paintable and magical fun in the form of fancy balloon sculptures, varied face painting and a strong storytelling/kids magic show.
Very strong balloon twisting skills/intermediate face painting skills
30 to 45 minute story telling/silly magic show aimed ages 4 to 7 (think more FUN AND ENGAGING than amazing illusions).
$ 135 hour for balloon only party
$ 145 w/face painting.
The Magic and Storytelling Show: 30 min and 30 min of balloons: $ 250.
I deeply believe in being well prepared, clear communications, double checking details, looking spiffy and arriving EARLY to the event to calm any jitters. I deeply believe in FUN!
61 Reviews
I recently hired an incredible balloon artist for my daughter's 4th birthday party, and I couldn't be more thrilled with the experience! With over 20 kids attending, ranging in age from 2 to 10, it was essential to have entertainment that would captivate them all - and he truly delivered. From the moment he arrived, his professionalism shone through. He was punctual, well-organized, and ready to dive into the sea of excited little ones with a smile. His balloon creations were nothing short of magical, with a variety of colors and shapes that left even the adults in awe. Each child was able to choose their own unique balloon art from an expansive list, and no request seemed too challenging for him. The artist didn't just make balloons; he engaged with the kids, making them laugh and keeping them entertained for hours. It was a delight to see children whooping with joy as they ran around with their balloon swords or hugging their new balloon animals. I am so grateful for the joy he brought to my daughter's birthday bash. His contribution was a huge part of why this day was memorable. I highly recommend his services to any parent looking to add a special touch to their child's party. Five stars all the way!
The kids loved The Polka Dot Man, and it was so fun to watch them get so excited with his creations. Aside from the kids, everyone at the party was astonished at some of the things he made- intricate, fun… a pro with his craft! Kids also loved the simple face painting he did for the 3-ish year olds of the party. Overall, and absolute hit and will be recommending him to others and keeping him in mind for years to come! Thank you Polka Dot Man!
Face Painter, Balloon Twister
Response from The Polka Dot Man Balloons:
Thank you so much for having me!! You have a lovely family and home. I felt very welcomed and the kids were great! It was also great to stretch out a little and add some face painting as well!
For other probably stressed out planners out there: if The Polkadot Man happens to be available for your event, please look no further and book him before someone else does.
We lost count on how many genuine WOWs and HAHAs heard at our so-called “balloon art station” throughout the 2-hour outdoor event at a church. Brian engaged our diverse audience with impressive skills and tasteful humor; timid toddlers, “hmph I’m too old for this now” teenagers, and adults ranging from young professionals to grandparents - all succumbed joyfully to his presentation. How could you not? This man transformed a bunch of limp plastic worms into lively creatures or surprisingly functional objects in the matter of seconds, and was incredibly versatile with the menu & color selections (though we might’ve disappointed him a little with how many requests for “unicorns”). Some highlights were a DNA double helix with RNAs “floating” inside (yes you read that right), and a structurally complex, visually stunning princess crown that involved 10 balloons and spent 5 busy minutes on to complete.
If you catch him on a break, strike him with a 30 second conversation and you might catch a glimpse of his wide interests. Maybe it’s because he used to be a communications professor (like, an actual professor)? He had the magical power to immediately break the ice and talk just about anything. Some of us had a lovely chat about music tastes (make sure to ask him about his thoughts on Beethoven).
Behind the scenes, Brian was extremely professional in his communication, offering clear guidelines on “what to expect”, “what do I need/prefer to have on-site”, and responded to any requests promptly. He was a one-man army and arrived well-prepared with his own equipment; the only thing he requested from us was a location with a shade (so that the balloons don’t lose their elasticity). No need for secondary support / crowd management - you can leave him alone (if you want - you’ll be tempted to stay) with your guests and organically you’ll find an increasing number of balloon crafts being seen around throughout the event.
Brian - thank you for bringing so much joy to our community and creating so many fond memories with all of us! We hope our paths cross again.
Balloon Twister
Response from The Polka Dot Man Balloons:
Eric....gosh! I'm humbled! You had such a nice crowd that truly WANTED to have fun that it was very, very easy to relax, laugh, play and have a good time myself! I hope to see you all again soon!
Best Regards,
Brian McNelis
The Polka Dot Man
They aren’t enough word to describe the AMAZING job that They The Polka Dot Man Balloons did on my mother in laws 90th birthday. He’s very talented, super funny, entertaining and energetic. We really enjoy. I highly highly recommend . 💯 AMAZING 🤩
Great with kids and fast with balloons - every guest at the party got at least two!
Children’s Party Magician, Balloon Twister
Response from The Polka Dot Man Balloons:
Thank you, Jennifer!!
Just want to give thanks to Brian for coming to my son’s 9th birthday party. Brian kept the kids and parents entertained. My son and several friends in attendance were on the autism spectrum and Brian was exceptionally supportive and patient.
Balloon Twister
We booked Brian for our corporate family and friends event and it was great the kids and even the adults loved his work and he even made me a special balloon sculpture he is very talented and I recommend booking him for all balloon sculpting.
Balloon Twister
Response from The Polka Dot Man Balloons:
Thank you so much, Kendra!! What a great party and nifty location!
Best Wishes!
Brian McNelis
The Polka Dot Man
Tomfooleryent@comcast.net 301.933.3665
The polka dot man was the biggest hit at our family party. Highly recommend him for any gathering. He was great with the kids and the adults who were amazed at his balloon creations. Thank you so much Polka Dot man!
Balloon Decor, Children’s Party Entertainment
Response from The Polka Dot Man Balloons:
Thank you so much for the opportunity!!
Brian McNelis
The Polka Dot Man
Tomfooleryent@comcast.net 301.933.3665
A total hit and all the kids were trying to hire him for their next birthday party!
Balloon Twister
Response from The Polka Dot Man Balloons:
Hi Nicole,
Wow!! What a lively and happy bunch you had at the party! Such a grand party in a very lively Manor House!! I hope we can do it again!
Best Regards
Brian McNelis
The Polka Dot Man
Tomfooleryent@comcast.net
301.933.3665
It was my daughter’s first birthday and everything that could’ve went wrong did. Polka Dot saved the day! Children and adults were enthused and he even made a special balloon for this stressed out mom who really needed a pick me up. 100% will be at all of our future events.
Balloon Decor, Children’s Party Entertainment, Balloon Twister
Response from The Polka Dot Man Balloons:
Brier
Thanks so much fir the very kind words. You have a lovely family and is a lot of fun!!
Best Wishes,
Brian McNelis
The Polka Dot Man
Tomfooleryent@comcast.net
301.933.3665
The polka dot man was wonderful! The children loved him. He made booking easy!
Just an all around great experience!
Children’s Party Entertainment, Balloon Twister
Response from The Polka Dot Man Balloons:
Hi Devita,
I had a great time too! What a great crowd! You did a great job with the decor!!
Brian McNelis
The Polka Dot Man
Tomfooleryent@comcast.net
301.933.3665
The Polka Dot Man is great with Kids and Balloons. He was great and the kids at the party had a great time.
Balloon Twister
Brian is so good with the balloon art. He kept the children entertained, they had a great time.
Children’s Party Entertainment, Balloon Twister
Brian was easy to communicate with, prompt and honest. He was great with the kids and really make the party a huge success.
Children’s Party Entertainment, Balloon Twister
Response from The Polka Dot Man Balloons:
Sarah and Ilana,
I am so grateful for your kind words. It was a fantastic party!!
Best Wishes,
Brian McNelis
The Polka Dot Man Tomfooleryent@comcast.net
The kid really had a great time! So many of the parents asked for referrals. He was so thoughtful too, knew mummy was busy and made me a special balloon. That meant so much to me.
Balloon Twister
Brian was a perfect addition to our daughter's 1st birthday. It was on the small side and adult heavy, but even the adults got into the balloon fun! He was everything you want and more. Great communication, professional, and of course, talented! I highly recommend him, he will level up any party!
Children’s Party Entertainment, Balloon Twister
Response from The Polka Dot Man Balloons:
Thank you so much for the kind review! I had a great time, too!!
The Polka Dot man was amazing! Everyone loved him and had a good time!
Balloon Twister
Brian was a fabulous addition to our 4 yo birthdays party. He is very talented and brought joy to every child with his balloon creations. I highly recommend him to anyone who wants an amazing balloon artist at their party. We had 25 children and he was very quick in ensuring every kid got at least one creation!
Balloon Twister
Response from The Polka Dot Man Balloons:
Thank you for your very generous review!
We hired The Polka Dot Man to do some ‘balloon twisting’ for our event at Rocklands Farm Winery! From start to finish…everything was great….ease of communication was fantastic! Would highly recommend and will use his services again!
Balloon Twister
Response from The Polka Dot Man Balloons:
Thank you Andrea!
It was fun and fancy at your event. Loved the kid friendly/family atmosphere!
Best Regards,
Brian McNelis
The Polka Dot Man
Awesome-kids loved!
Children’s Party Entertainment, Balloon Twister
The Polka Dot Man arrived on time and the kids (ages 3-10) enjoyed his show and the balloon animals that he made.
Balloon Twister
This was a great decision to have the Polka Dot Man come and entertain the kids for a birthday party. My daughter was thrilled with everything, and every child there enjoyed themselves and the balloon magic he made.
I highly recommend him for your children’s parties.
Children’s Party Entertainment, Balloon Twister
Response from The Polka Dot Man Balloons:
Than you Jim! Everyone was so kind and welcoming! Tell Josephine she's great and has great friends!!
Brian
You will not be disappointed when booking the Polka Dot Man for your event! He was super responsive, communicative, comes a little earlier than scheduled to set up, funny, and great with the kids! I just told him where to set up, then once set up, he just took off and ran with balloon twisting the kids requests and keeping them entertained while doing it. The adults were also very impressed with his intricate balloon twist designs. Highly recommend!! Thanks Polka Dot Man for making my kid’s birthday memorable. 🎉🎉
Balloon Twister
Response from The Polka Dot Man Balloons:
Lisa,
It was my pleasure! It was a lot of fun!
Best Regards,
Brian McNelis
The Polka Dot Man
Super creative and fast making! My family enjoyed having balloon animals and other things made from the balloons.
Children’s Party Entertainment
The Polka Dot Man was great! we had a excellent day with Mr. Polka Dot. I really recommend for other parties. Kids love it.
Balloon Twister
Brian was the only vendor at my daughters party who gave me no issues! He showed up on time ready to go he did great with the balloons and face painting and cleaned up his area then left. It was the best stress free money I spent for that day! The kids had a wonderful time and said it was the best party they’d ever been too. Highly recommend and would use him again.
Children’s Party Entertainment, Balloon Twister
Response from The Polka Dot Man Balloons:
Bashan
Thank you so much for the kind words! The folks at your event were so kind and joyful. I had a great time and would love to see you and them again!
Brian McNelis
The Polka Dot Man
The Polka Dot Man was a hit for my daughter’s 2nd birthday party. He’s very creative, talented, and great with kids of all ages. I’d highly recommend hiring him to friends and family!
Balloon Twister
On-time, great with kids and everyone loved the balloons. Highly recommend and would book again in the future.
Balloon Twister
Brian was excellent and the kids had a great time p
Balloon Twister
Response from The Polka Dot Man Balloons:
Thanks Scott!!
You have a great family and a really lovely home! I had a blast!!
Brian
The Polka Dot Man was such a fantastic addition to my 3 year old son's birthday party. We had a range of ages of children at the party and the Polka Dot Man was not only punctual but was so good with all the kids. He has a huge range of balloons he can make and he made sure each kid got exactly what they wanted. We would recommend The Polka Dot Man to anyone looking for balloon twisting and will absolutely book him again ourselves!
Balloon Twister
I planned a birthday party for my 5 year old remotely from out of town as my family was visiting the Washington DC/Maryland area for a family reunion. I found the Polka Dot Man and booked through Gig Salad. He responded quickly to the initial inquiry and was very easy to confirm. He showed up to our party on time and was a hit for the children and adults alike. He’s a very skilled balloon twister and has a great sense of humor! Fun was had by all. I would highly recommend hiring the Polka Dot Man for your balloon twisting and entertainment needs.
We had a great experience with The Polka Dot Man for our daughter's 6th birthday party. She and the other kids thought he was hilarious and they enjoyed all the different things he can make. He even catered to the theme of the party with his creations. So fun!
Balloon Twister
He was an surprise for a corporate event and the staff loved him! Many wore the balloon hats he created all day. Two women held their balloon bouquet like pageant winners! We hope to use him again in the future!
Balloon Twister
The Polka Dot Man was awesome, he was on time, he was prepared, he was very outgoing, personable, funny, dressed for the part, and did an amazing job with the balloon art. We would recommend him to anyone at any time. He was fantastic!
I have attached some pictures of fun balloons he made for our staff.
Thank you so much and we will look forward to having him at our next event!
Sincerely, Mary David, ERT, Inc.
He is very accomodating, nice, friendly, and an entertainer. We'll definitely be booking him for more events!!
The Polka Dot man was very responsive and affordable when I submitted my request.
He messaged the day before the event confirming time and location and was prompt for the day of the party.
There were about 12-15 kids and he did really well with all of their requests and made some fun balloons.
Definitely recommend him!
Balloon Twister
Response from The Polka Dot Man Balloons:
Than you Shannon. I had a great time! You have a lovely family! How did you get your husband to work so hard on the lawn? It was like a golf course!
Awesome experience. Great fun for the kids
Children’s Party Entertainment, Balloon Twister
Our first time having The Polka Dot Man Balloons at our Kite Fest. Easy to work out the gig. Great communication through out. The day of the event he did an awesome job with kids from 2 through 80. Amazing creations that we all enjoyed.
I highly recommend him.
Balloon Twister
Response from The Polka Dot Man Balloons:
Steve,
Many thanks for the kind words! Let's do it again!
Brian McNelis The Polka Dot Man
We thoroughly enjoyed the birthday party with The Polka Dot Man. He was flexible and even made a custom unicorn hat for the birthday girl. Highly recommend! Thanks!
Balloon Twister
Response from The Polka Dot Man Balloons:
Yasmin,
Thanks so much! It was loads of fun!
Brian McNelis
The Polka Dot Man
We recently hired The Polka Dot Man to twist balloons at our daughter's 2nd birthday party. I wanted to do something special for her and her seven toddler friends and am so happy I chose him. The Polka Dot Guy arrived on time, set up shop and got to work. The kids were too small to really say what they wanted, so he just kept pumping out awesome balloon animals, crowns, swords, etc. and the kids were absolutely thrilled. In addition to making great balloon art, The Polka Dot Man is hilarious and really good with kids. A+ - would highly recommend.
Balloon Twister
Brian was a wonderful addition to the backyard bash we had for our daughter’s 3rd birthday. The kids loved choosing their balloon animals, crowns, and shapes and loved talking to “Mr. Polka Dot” too. Thanks so much!
Brian was excellent and we're so glad he was able to come to our daughter's 4th birthday! His communication leading up to the event was wonderful and his services (balloon making and good humor) at the party really made it special.
Children’s Party Entertainment, Balloon Twister
Response from The Polka Dot Man Balloons:
Sarah,
Thanks south for the kind words. It was a lot of fun! Hope to see you again soon!
Brian McNelis
The Polka Dot Man Tomfooleryent@comcast.net 301.933.3665
I hired him for my 2-year old's party and in attendance were kids ages 6-16. He could make a balloon for all ages in attendance. Made everyone smile. Highly recommended for all occasions.
Children’s Party Entertainment, Balloon Twister
Brian was EXCELLENT - punctual, good-humored, and most importantly - very good at balloons! The partygoers were thrilled with his creations and kept lining up for more. There was no such thing as downtime, as Brian used the shorter line times to build his stock so the kids were never left waiting long. They - and we - were THRILLED and will definitely be booking him again!
Children’s Party Entertainment
Response from The Polka Dot Man Balloons:
Kayla,
Many thanks!! You have a lovely family. It was lots if fun!
Best Regards,
Brian McNelis
The Polka Dot Man Tomfooleryent@comcast.net 301.933.3665
Brian was awesome. He was so personable and very talented. All the kids at the party loved the balloons he made. He arrived on time and cleaned up afterwards. He was definitely the highlight of our party. He was very professional and was nice to the kids.
Children’s Party Entertainment, Balloon Twister
Response from The Polka Dot Man Balloons:
Thank you Nicole! You have lively home and a very bright daughter! It was loads of fun!
Brian McNelis
The Polka Dot Man
Could not have asked for more. The Polka Dot Man came early, set himself up, and began making entertaining creations before the guests even arrived. When they did arrive, he was a huge hit. He entertained adults and kids alike (this was a 2-year-old's birthday party). His balloons were funny and remarkable, and his sense of humor was spot on. When he was done, he cleaned everything up, deconstructed his set-up, and left the area spotless. I would absolutely book him again.
Children’s Party Entertainment, Balloon Twister
Response from The Polka Dot Man Balloons:
Jeff.
Thank you so much! I loved being at the party and had a lot of fun making balloons for the kids...and the Viking Hat for you!
I hope to see you again soon!
Best Regards,
Brian McNelis
The Polka Dot Man
Brian was fantastic to work with! We had about 10, 2-6 year olds for a birthday party, and they all loved their balloons so much. Brian was on time, easy to communicate with, and very fun during our party!
You will not regret booking him!
Polka Dot man exceeded all expectations for our young son's party. What he does is listen to what a child wants and create some of the coolest balloons. He was even making balloons even before the kids arrived. He was very creative and kind to everyone he met. I can't wait to hire him again!
Balloon Twister
Response from The Polka Dot Man Balloons:
Tatiana,
Thank you so much for your kind words! I had tons of fun at the birthday party!
Best Wishes,
Brian McNelis
The Polka Dot Man
301.933.3665
Brian arrived early to set up for my daughter’s first birthday. He was self sufficient and prepared with all supplies. The kids and adults enjoyed his designs.
Great!!!! Patient with all the children from the teens to the 2 year olds. The children asked Can he be at our next event? Yes he will be 😀!!!!!
Balloon Twister
Thank you, kids liked the balloon show very much!
Children’s Party Entertainment, Balloon Twister
Response from The Polka Dot Man Balloons:
Adriana,
Thank you very much!
Brian McNelis
The Polka Dot Man
Held a corporate family holiday party in December with about 250 adults and 40 children. Prior to the event, the Polka Dot Man helped me to secure a second artist. Unfortunately the second artist fell ill prior to the event. No Worries, The Polka Dot Man helped me find a last minute replacement!
The Polka Dot Man was very professional in all of his communications. He arrived early and made sure that everyone who wanted a balloon received one. His balloons were so much fun for the children! I will definitely book him again.
Balloon Twister
Response from The Polka Dot Man Balloons:
Thanks Laureena!
It was super fun!
Happy to help you find my colleague George as well!
I hope to see you again next year!
Best Regards,
Brian McNelis
The Polka Dot Man
He was great! Very professional, really engaging with the kids and had a wide variety of options. I would definitely recommend him for any event that you are having!
Balloon Twister
Response from The Polka Dot Man Balloons:
Blake,
Thanks so much for your kind review! You have a great group of kids! Let's do it again!!
Brian McNelis
The Polka Dot Man
The Polka Dot man is highly recommended. He was wonderful with the kids. Not only is he super talented but also very entertaining. Thank you for making our party a big success.
Balloon Twister
Response from The Polka Dot Man Balloons:
Thank you so much for your kind words! I had a little of fun making rainbow palm trees! Let's do it again soon!
The Polka Dot Man made my daughters 4th birthday party a GREAT one! He took his time giving each child the perfect ballon's to take home with them. There were children of various ages at this party...age 1 to 12, and he was able to entertain them all! All the parents loved him too!
We had a party for our 6 year old this past weekend and Brian did an amazing job. He was engaging and patient and they had so much fun with him! The twists were so unique too - bow and arrows, “DNA” with balls inside, crowns and so much more. I would definitely recommend and look forward to another opportunity to use his services.
Polka Dot came to my sons first birthday part today . He was reliable and extremely friendly with all the guests. He was professional and easy to work with . He communicated every step of the way ! I can’t wait to book him for my next event.
Balloon Twister
Response from The Polka Dot Man Balloons:
Thank you. Miss Quiyama! You have a great extended family! It was so easy getting along with your kids! Tell Schuyler she was really helpful today, and to keep studying science!!
Brian was great — showed up early to get set up and was hard at work making balloon creatures nonstop until the party was done two hours later. He is a master at balloon twisting and is a charming personality too! Great experience!
Balloon Twister
We all know lines are long but he is so good with keeping people in line amused and engaging kids when they get to the front. Then the kids are so happy when they get the coolest balloon artwork!
Balloon Twister
Response from The Polka Dot Man Balloons:
Hilary,
Thank you for your kind words! The Clarendon Alliance day was a very special event! You did a great job organizing and supporting the entertainers and the people were so NICE! I had a blast!
Brian
The kids were so excited for the balloons! He was patient and kind. There were so many options for the kids to choose from.
Children’s Party Entertainment
Response from The Polka Dot Man Balloons:
Melissa,
That was a great bunch of kids! I had a great time at your event!
Thanks for the kind words!
Brian - The Polka Dot Man
Polka Dot was reliable and very friendly with all the guests. He was also professional and easy to work with. I'd recommend him for birthdays or events.
Balloon Twister
Booking Info
Price Range: $ 135 and up
Gig Length: 60 - 180 minutes
Languages: English, Spanish
Insurance: $1,000,000 - 1,000,000 per event; 2,000,000 Aggregate - Specialty Insurance Company of Minnesota
Unions: SAG-AFTRA
Phone Number: Call
What to Expect
I show up early looking spiffy. I am always well stocked in terms of a variety of colors. I am friendly on the line, and bring a portable table and back up balloon pump.
The typical Balloon Menu for a birthday or picnic event is as follows:
Dogs, Poodles ( fancier dogs), Swords, Bow and Arrow that really shoots, a futuristic Ray Gun (that does NOT shoot -- you must say PEW PEW PEW yourself), Mouse, Butterfly, Horse, Unicorn, Fish on a fishing poles, Monkey, Flowers, Heart Flower, Magic Princess Wand with Hearts, MEGA heart, DAN Molecule with rubber balls inside, Viking Hat, Horns Hat, Flower Hats, Dragonfly, Lady Bug Bracelet, Turtle Bracelet, Palm Tree, Deer/Reindeer, Candy Cane, and Christmas Wreath
On really long or huge events, if there is a very long line, I generally either need someone on the back end of the line to help me close it down, and prevent running into overtime, or I can hand out tickets 30 minutes before closing. I also have a prefabricated sign I can hand to the last person with a ticket that says, "Last Person; End of the Line" to clearly get the message across in a kind way.
Overtime can be booked on the fly in 1/2 hour increments.
About
I have been doing special events, fairs, festivals, corporate functions, company picnics, fundraisers and private parties since 1989. I used to be an event producer, as well as a martial arts teacher and a Communications Professor, but this is much more fun and keeps me doing what I love the most, making people smile.
Additional Booking Notes
I am turn-key and self-sufficient. I come with everything needed to deliver the goods from start to finish. If you have a stanchion, that would help. I do not have that item.
Setup Requirements
Access to an electrical outlet and a Stanchion would be helpful, but not required.