When I was first approached about creating balloon pieces for Cupid’s Undie Run I thought it would be a fantastic opportunity for me to work on some fun new balloon dresses. Later, when I looked into what the run was all about, I was even more excited to be creating pieces that would be displayed at such an important fundraising event!

Cupid’s Undie Run

To an onlooker watching the event, it may seem crazy to see hundreds of adults doing a mile-long run in creative, cupid-inspired underwear on Valentine’s weekend. Behind the fun and silliness of the run however, there’s a very important purpose and message to be told. Cupid’s Undie Run is put on once a year to raise money for the Children’s Tumor Foundation, which is a non-government organization that focuses on funding research on Neurofibromatosis (NF).

Despite the fact that NF affects approximately 1 in 3000 births in the U.S., there is very little research on it, and much less awareness about it in the general public. This genetic disorder is characterized by tumor growth on the body which eventually leads to a variety of symptoms, ranging from learning disabilities to deafness. There is currently no cure for the condition, and that is the motivation behind Cupid’s Undie Run – to fund the research necessary to finally find a cure for NF!

The Underwear Metaphor

Great cause, fun event – but what’s with the undies?! That seems to be the question on most people’s minds when they first hear about the event. The logic behind the undies is a simple one: children with NF can’t use clothes to make them feel more comfortable, so neither should the participants. One of the most fascinating things about the whole event is checking out the participants’ different takes on underwear! Many participants see the event as an opportunity to be creative and to come up with some truly unique and fascinating cupid-inspired outfits.

Three Complimentary Balloon Outfits

When an event calls for creativity and uniqueness, balloon art is a great way to stand out from the crowd! The three balloon pieces commissioned for the event were identical in terms of style (each piece comprised of a balloon fascinator, bra and skirt), and although they all featured three identical colors (pink, red and white), the colors were used differently in each piece. The outfits were created to fit in perfectly with the theme of the event, while still being unique and attention-grabbing costumes. The design of the bra and skirt also allowed for the free, easy movement required for the outfit wearers to be able to participate in the run and to enjoy the day’s activities.

No matter how many balloon dresses I make, I’m always excited to create something new and I never cease to be amazed at how fantastically the balloon creations compliment their wearers at such a wide range of events. It was especially great to see the three balloon dresses come to life at such a meaningful (and fun) event!