The balloon and events industry thrives on creativity, innovation and connection. For our second instalment in this exclusive interview series, we're speaking with the team behind Northern Event District, a collective championing collaboration over competition and elevating event styling across the North.
From custom sequin walls to the unstoppable rise of bows, Northern Event District has been at the forefront of 2025's most statement-making trends. But what truly sets them apart is their commitment to building a supportive creative community where stylists share knowledge, push boundaries together, and create opportunities for growth.
We were proud sponsors of their massive Balloon Escape event that's returning for another year, and promises to be even bigger and better! Keep your eyes peeled for when tickets go on sale as this will sell out in record time
Here's what they had to say about the trends that defined their year, what they're predicting for 2026, and why community might just be the industry's most valuable asset.
What's the most exciting balloon or event trend you worked with in 2025?
One of the most exciting trends for us in 2025 has been combining balloon styling with draping fabrics. Adding material really elevates balloon installs and gives them a luxury, more bespoke finish.
We've also loved working with custom print sequin walls, provided by Event Suppliers UK—they've been such a statement piece this year and a brilliant way to create something truly one of a kind for clients.
Alongside that, Orb balloons have been hugely popular; they add impact and modern edge to displays and have been a real client favourite throughout 2025.
What's one trend of 2025 you'd be happy to stay and one you'd be happy to lose?
A trend we'd be happy to see stay is the use of bows. They've been HUGE this year and we don't think they're going anywhere just yet. But what excites us most is seeing how creatives push boundaries, incorporating bows into new themes and installations in more unexpected, elevated ways.
One trend we'd be happy to move on from is overly basic or repetitive colour palettes. While they have their place, we love seeing clients become more confident with colour and allowing us to experiment with fresh, unexpected pairings. It keeps designs exciting, bespoke and ensures every setup feels unique rather than a repeat of the last one.
If you had to predict the next big thing in event design for 2026, what would it be?
It's really hard to predict trends when there are so many talented creatives in the industry constantly coming up with new ideas—that's what makes it so exciting to watch new trends unfold and evolve.
That said, for 2026 we see event design moving further towards immersive, multi-layered styling, where balloons are combined with different textures and draping, lighting and bespoke printed elements. I hope clients move more towards acrylic and printed signage rather than adding low cost vinyl to bookings, because it makes such a big difference to the overall finish.
Personalisation will continue to be key, with clients wanting one-off, custom designed installations that feel intentional, elevated and completely unique to their event and space.
What's been the most valuable lesson 2025 has taught you to take into 2026?
One of the most valuable lessons 2025 has taught us is the importance of community. Being part of Northern Event District has shown us how powerful it is to support, collaborate and grow alongside other creatives in the industry.
Sharing ideas, knowledge and opportunities not only strengthens individual businesses but raises the standard of events as a whole.
Going into 2026, we're taking forward the value of connection over competition. Some small businesses fear competition and we want to try and eradicate this. We know that when creatives come together, it pushes innovation, confidence and creativity much further than working alone and gatekeeping all your knowledge.
It can be a lonely challenge working for yourself, but when you become part of a community it can help in so many ways. Our members have found friends for life through our group and that is something really special.
Going into 2026, we're taking this forward by creating more opportunities for connection and collaboration. We're starting a series of collaborations this year, beginning with our first content day and social event for 'Galentine's Day' at our studio. These days are something we truly love—they give creatives the chance to come together and create without client restrictions, enjoy experimenting with unique displays, build their portfolios, gain confidence and, most importantly, have a laugh with friends in the industry.
We also have many more throughout the year which we are so excited about! You can follow @northerneventdistrict, @partyboutiqueleeds and @howardsevents for updates!
Interested in joining a community of like-minded event professionals? Discover how Event Suppliers supports balloon artists and event stylists across the UK with wholesale products, industry insights and creative inspiration.