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Sue Marston-Weston
“When I won First Place at IBAC 13 for my 'Birthday Bear',
I invested my winnings in a Conwin Dual
Split-Second Sizer. 5 years on, my Conwin Dual Sizer is
still going strong and I would not be without it, I could
not believe quite how much time it saves on a job!! (I know,
because I timed myself!) My second favourite item is my Conwin Utility Apron, I wear
it when I teach and work... I now never lose my scissors!"
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Sue was invited to be a Conwin Spotlight Artist in 2002, today Sue works for Conwin, Inc. as their European Sales and Marketing Manager. This article reflects Sue's position within the industry at that time.
The Beginning
Sue Marston-Weston established Gasbags Balloon Co. in January 1991
in time for Valentine's Day, knowing little or nothing about balloons!!
After 3 years of trial and error and many hours of practicing, Sue
bravely drove to Paris, France to attend her very first EBS (European
Balloon Symposium)...the creative bug 'bit' and she has not looked
back since! "I was completely overwhelmed by the atmosphere,
the extremely high standards of work and of course the vast networking
with delegates from around Europe, many of whom I am great friends
with today."
The Competitor
Sue has enjoyed much success with her designs and has won a number
of competitions at IBAC, EBS and The International Party Show Birmingham,
England. "Competing for me has always been the 'icing on the
cake' at any convention, the planning and preparation of designs,
the construction and the relief when the design comes together.
Most importantly the 'Team Spirit' from all the competitors, the
sharing of tools and the occasional balloon!"
The Instructor
Today, Sue spends most of her time educating others in the Art of
Balloon Display, as an Instructor for Pioneer Europe, Pioneer Worldwide
and, until recently, a Lecturer for Capel Manor College, England.
Sue has been one of IBAC's international speakers for the past 3
years and will be returning to teach at IBAC 18. Sue was recently
awarded UK Qualatex Approved Instructor of the Year 2001. "I
am passionate about education within the Balloon Industry, for any
profession to grow it requires high standards. Today there are many
ways to learn this exciting trade; QBN Program, City & Guilds
Balloon Artistry Courses (UK only), Balloon Conventions, the Internet...ConwinOnline.com
being one of the best sites of course!"
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