Unicorns and Candyfloss

I have developed some wonderful friends in the party industry, and one of my most recent friends has become one of my closest friends. For the purpose of this story, let's call her L. We met at a balloon event and bonded quickly. I could see she had an amazing talent, and I wanted to help her on her journey. L often asked me for advice and shared her worries with me, and I was more than happy to help.

One of L's early worries was that a local woman had started up a party balloon business with a very similar name to her own: Unicorns and Marshmallow Balloons, compared to L's Unicorns and Candyfloss Balloons. I could instantly see the problem: the two businesses had very similar names. I chatted to L about this and asked her a few questions about the other business. To our surprise, the businesses were somewhat different. Yes, they were both party balloon businesses, but this new competitor offered a lower-end service, whereas my friend L was supplying a very high-end service.

As time went on, a few other instances arose with L and even with some other friends. Essentially, another person or business has done something to make them angry, such as copying a balloon design or starting to advertise in the same area. In fact, this is a common complaint on social media. It's a common problem that will likely continue, unfortunately, that's the nature of business.

My advice to L and to anyone else who is facing similar competition is always the same: ignore them. Getting angry or upset about a competitor is a waste of your own precious energy. Instead, focus your energy on your own business. Why waste it on someone else?

I have made some lovely friends in the local balloon industry, but one thing I make sure to do is not follow them on social media. I don't want to see what they're up to, when and where they're working, or what balloon designs they're working on. I've always made this clear to my local balloon artiste and entertainer friends. By not following them and not seeing what they're up to, I can focus 100% on my own business and be unique.

Have you ever had to deal with competition in your business? How did you handle it? Share your tips in the comments below!