HI-FLOAT

In 1982 Marjorie Burchette opened a small balloon delivery shop in Louisville, Kentucky. She quickly noticed a large number of complaints from customers who were unhappy because their balloons floated less than a day. Her husband, Don, is a chemical engineer who was employed at the time in the Research and Development department of a large chemical company. Marjorie asked him if there was a way to increase the floating life of latex balloons.

Don went to work on the problem at night in his basement shop, and after about a year developed HI-FLOAT. The rest is history; HI-FLOAT has become a phenomenal success.

In 1992 we introduced an improved formula, SUPER HI-FLOAT, which worked twice as well. In 2002 the next generation of balloon treatment was born - ULTRA HI-FLOAT. This concentrated formula works twice as well as SUPER, and can increase the floating life of a latex balloon up to twenty-five times on average.

The HI-FLOAT Company strives to support the balloon industry. In 1990 HI-FLOAT became a charter member of the International Balloon Association (IBA). Marjorie is a tremendous advocate of industry education and has traveled the world educating balloon professionals. HI-FLOAT regularly sponsers important educational events such as Balloniversity and Summer Balloon Camp.

At the 2005 Summer Balloon Camp, Marjorie was presented with the Dottie Blanchard Spirit Award. This award is given annually to a person who has a genuine love of the balloon industry and embraces the spirit of Dottie Blanchard, giving unselfishly to better the industry and help individuals grow and prosper.

DON and MARJORIE BURCHETTE

Since inventing HI-FLOAT, Don has also has put his technical expertise to work on the environmental issues surrounding latex balloons. Don conducted a study to educate people on the biodegradability of latex balloons. At the International Balloon Arts Convention (IBAC) in 1990 Don was awarded the prestigious Crystal Award, which is presented to individuals or companies who actively advance the industry through innovation, skill, and dedication. Don currently is semi-retired and is enjoying a second career as an artist.