FLOAT FAQs
General Questions
I’ve heard that FLOAT is not a convention for brand new balloon people. Is that true?
Are my family members allowed to attend the convention with me?
Yes and no. If you wish to bring any immediate family member aged 13 and older with you to FLOAT, he or she may attend the following events at no cost to you:
- Friday Night Fun
- Competition Viewing Spaces
- Club L8X Karaoke Party
- Opening Night “FLOATchella”
- The FLOAT Beach Party
At no time is anyone 13 or older permitted in any classroom or the Vendor Showcase unless they are fully registered for the convention. If you wish for that person 13 or older to enter any of these spaces, then you will need to register them as a full academic delegate for FLOAT 2024.
If you wish to bring an immediate family member to the Designer Awards Gala, the cost for this is $99.00 for anyone 13 years or older and $25 for anyone from age 2 to 12.
Children under the age of 13 are permitted in the classrooms and Vendor Showcase under the conditions that:
A. They are being supervised by you and are physically with you in the same classroom
B. They are not behaving in a manner that is distracting to other students
C. FLOAT reserves the right to ask a parent to remove a child from a classroom should we get complaints that the child is being disruptive in the classroom
D. Children are still subject to the ticket prices for the Designer Awards Gala
Are pets allowed at FLOAT?
This rule does not apply to an animal who is licensed as a “trained service animal” for those with physical disabilities. They are, however, limited to dogs only and will require all legal and medical documentation necessary.
Will FLOAT be offering a virtual option in 2024?
Am I allowed to audio or video record the classes at FLOAT?
No. You are not allowed to do either at FLOAT. If you are caught recording a class that is in session the following will occur:
- First Offense – Asked to stop by security
- Second Offense – You will be asked to leave the classroom and will not be permitted into another classroom that session
- Third Offense – You will be asked to leave the convention and your registration negated with no refund issued
Exceptions to the rule will be made for individuals who can provide medical documentation for a condition which causes them not to be able to keep notes. This exemption must be cleared in advance of the convention and will not be issued on the spot.
Questions About Registration
How much does it cost to attend FLOAT?
The price of FLOAT varies based on when you register for the convention and where you live. General prices are as follows for those who live in what is considered the Continental United States:
- March 17 to May 31, 2023 – $550.00
- June 1 to October 31, 2023 – $599.00
- November 1 to December 31, 2023 – $650.00
- January 1 to February 29, 2024 – $699.00
- March 1 to March 5, 2024 – $799.00
If you reside in Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, any other US territory or any other country other than the United States of America, then you are allowed to register for FLOAT 2024 at the international rate of $475.00. That price point expires either on February 5, 2024, or if the convention sells out first.
What is the maximum capacity that FLOAT 2024 can host?
What’s included in my registration to FLOAT?
A LOT! Here’s what you get
- Access to all ten (10) general class sessions
- Access to the Vendor Showcase
- Access to all five (5) social events, including a ticket to the
- Designer Awards Gala
- Access to all of our “Fulcrum” panel discussion conversations
- Access to all four (4) of our Sponsored Sessions
- A black and white version of the Academic FLOATBook, containing all the notes from all the general class offerings
- A 2024 event t-shirt
- The “FLOAT Tote” welcome bag
- Access to “The FLOAT Forum,” our exclusive Facebook support group
- The ability to enter any of the design competitions at FLOAT 2024
Added-value options such as Master and Bonus Classes do require an additional fee
Does FLOAT offer a payment plan for registration fees?
Are there multi-person discounts available if I want to bring my staff?
Are there any other discounts available for FLOAT?
Questions Regarding Hotel and Travel
Where will FLOAT be taking place?
What is the closest airport to FLOAT 2024?
Does the hotel offer a free shuttle from the airports?
How much is parking at FLOAT?
How much is the room rate for FLOAT?
That information will be available in the “FLOAT Notes” email series soon (if it’s not already there)
Do the hotel rooms have refrigerators or microwaves?
What food options are available at the host hotel?
There are, however, LOTS of restaurant options in the immediate area and most of them offer delivery if you don’t want to leave the building. And there is a Target department store in the same parking lot as the hotel, so convenience is just a short walk away.
Does the hotel offer mobility scooters?
Are my hotel or travel expenses included in my registration for FLOAT?
Questions about Classes at FLOAT
Do we have to pre-enroll for the general classes at FLOAT?
How does the ticket system work?
One general line is formed near the registration desk that will lead to a series of tables. Once you reach the front of the line, you will be allowed to select tickets for two (2) classes offered in the next two sessions. Please note; you WILL be asked to select tickets specifically for each session. In other words, if you want Class A and Class B, you will need to choose whether you want to take Class A in session 1 or session 2, and likewise for Class B.
Ticket lines open 45 minutes before the odd numbered class sessions:
Monday, March 11 – 7:15 AM for class sessions #1 and #2
3:15 PM for class sessions #3 and #4
Tuesday, March 12 – 8:15 AM for class sessions #5 and #6
2:15 PM for class sessions #7 and #8
Wednesday, March 13 – 7:15 AM for class sessions #9 and #`10
Am I only allowed to attend the class I have a ticket for in a given session?
Also note, by allowing people to come and go, we cannot guarantee you a seat in the classroom you switch to, so you may find yourself standing.
Finally, if you are part of the “Blue Badge” program at FLOAT, if you leave the classroom you are assigned to, you will forfeit your special access seat in the existing classroom you leave and will not be guaranteed a new special access seat in the room you switch to.
What do I need to know if I have a mobility issue or physical disability that requires special needs?
In order to qualify for this program, you MUST submit documentation from your medical professional that outlines your need for special consideration. While it is true that your personal medical information is private, we do have to have some form of documentation stating that you absolutely need this service.
PLEASE NOTE: poor vision is not enough to grant you a Blue Badge; if that were the case, anyone who wears glasses would qualify for this program.
Documentation MUST be received no later than February 15th, 2024, in order to qualify for this program.
If a class is listed only in Spanish, what does that mean?
We know that some manufacturers may be including a translator with their instructor. We will update the schedule when we know more about this. But historically, students often note that translated classes run slower because of the added time required to translate.
How will we know which classes are for beginners versus more experienced people?
Will class notes be handed out in each general class session?
Will the general classes be recorded?
Will I be able to purchase the classes being recorded at FLOAT, even if I do not go to FLOAT?
Questions about Added Value Options
How do I get a full color version of the Academic FLOATBook?
You were asked when you registered if you wanted to upgrade your FLOATbook, which contains all the class notes for all the general classes at the convention. If you would like to upgrade into a full color version, the cost is $65. Email [email protected] if you would like to make this change.
Can I purchase the Academic FLOATBook and not attend FLOAT?
How are Master Classes different from General Classes at FLOAT?
How many Master classes are being offered at FLOAT, and how much do Master Classes cost?
Master classes cost $99 each if ordered before the convention, but there is the Master Class Multi-Pass available if you want to take three (3) Master classes, with one taking place in each session for $250.00. There are also limited amounts of the FLOATation Pass available as well, which gives you come and go access to all six Master classes at FLOAT.
If you enroll in a Master Class on or after March 5, 2024, then the class will cost $125 each with no option for discounted rates.
Do we get class notes with the Master classes?
How are Bonus Classes different from General Classes at FLOAT?
How many Bonus Classes are offered at FLOAT, and how much do they cost?
The only discounted option for Bonus classes is once again through the FLOATation Pass, in which you will receive free come and go access to all of these classes.
Do we get class notes with the Bonus classes?
Can I purchase the class notes from other added value classes I cannot attend?
Can I apply to be a Master or Bonus Class instructor?
Can I enroll in Master Classes or Bonus Classes and not come to FLOAT?
How do I enroll in Master or Bonus Classes?
What happens if I purchase added value classes and then have to cancel my registration to FLOAT?
Questions about the FLOATation Pass
What exactly is the FLOATation Pass?
Does the FLOATation Pass include registration to FLOAT?
What’s included with the FLOATation Pass?
With the FLOATation Pass, you get the following:
- Unlimited come and go access to all six (6) of FLOAT’s Master Classes
- Unlimited come and go access to all eight (8) of FLOAT’s Bonus Classes
- Full color class notes of both the Academic FLOATBook AND the Added Value Classes
- Free access to all ten (10) digital downloads of the classes being recorded at FLOAT 2024
- Six (6) drink tickets, two (2) for Opening Night, two (2) for the Beach Party and two (2) for the Designer Awards Gala
- A surprise gift from FLOAT
- Guaranteed access to the general classes of your choice at FLOAT, meaning you can skip the daily ticket line
How much is the FLOATation Pass?
How many FLOATation Passes are available?
Will there be a waiting list for FLOATation Passes if they sell out?
No, there will not be. If one becomes available, we will relist the item on the registration link and it will be first come first served. For far too many years, we have created waiting lists, only to go ten or fifteen people down the list before we get to someone who was actually serious about purchasing the pass.
Can I enroll in the FLOATation Pass and not be registered for FLOAT?
Are there any discounts available for the FLOATation Pass?
What happens if I have to cancel my registration to FLOAT and I purchased this pass?
Questions about Competitions at FLOAT
Which competitions at FLOAT are part of the Designer of the Year series?
FLOAT features five (5) different live competitions that are part of the Designer of the Year series:
- Sculpture
- Entrance Decor
- Table Centerpiece (Live)
- Foil Design
- Organic Decor
You must compete in at least three (3) of these live competitions in order to be eligible for the Designer of the Year Award.
What other competitions are held at FLOAT?
In addition to our live competitions, FLOAT also offers four (4) different deadline competitions. Unlike the live competitions which must be built in front of the competition director during a set time line, the deadline competitions are merely contests where you must submit an entry before a specific assigned time.
Those competitions are:
- Hanging Decor
- Mosaic Design
- Delivery Piece
- Table Centerpiece (Deadline)
What are the FLOATEEs?
When will the themes for the different Designer of the Year competitions be formally announced?
When can we sign up for the different competitions at FLOAT?
Deadline competitions do not require pre-enrollment; you just show up with your entry during the designated times. Check the competition schedule for that information.
FLOATEE submissions start on January 2 and end on February 2, 2024.
Are there limits to how many people can enter?
Can you enter more than one entry in a given competition?
Is there a cost to compete at FLOAT?
The FLOATEE awards cost between $3 and $7 per entry, depending on when you enter the competition. And yes, it’s for each entry in each category. So if you have a photo that you want to submit in multiple categories, you would have to pay each entry fee for each category, even though it’s the same photo.
There are no fees to enter the deadline competitions at FLOAT because no spots are being held for you as a result of your entering.
What happens if I enter a competition and then have to withdraw?
The same rule applies to if you withdraw because you have to cancel your registration to FLOAT 2024. Bottom line is you have taken a spot from someone else and they have now lost precious time to prepare their designs because you took the space.
How will the Designer of the Year competitions be judged?
DOTY events are also voted on by the delegates in attendance at FLOAT for a separate award called the “Delegates’ Choice Award.” However, these results have no standing on the point system for DOTY consideration.
How many people are allowed to be a on team in a live competition?
Each competition has a different allowance for crew members:
- Sculpture – Maximum ten (10)
- Entrance Decor – Maximum four (4)
- Table Centerpiece (Live) – Maximum two (2)
- Foil Design – Maximum four (4)
- Organic Decor – Maximum four (4)
These maximum numbers include the designer as well.
Can anyone be on my team as a competitor at FLOAT?
In addition, General Class instructors, Master Class instructors, FLOAT staff members, official sponsors of FLOAT 2024 and those designated as vendors at FLOAT 2024 cannot serve as members of a build team. Bonus class instructors ARE allowed to both compete and serve on build teams, however, as they are considered academic delegates and not full instructors at the convention.
Are there prizes for the competitions?
FLOATEE award winners will receive plaques. No cash prizes are offered for FLOATEE award winners.
What are the rules for the competitions at FLOAT?
Questions about Vending and Sponsoring FLOAT
How can I promote my company at FLOAT?
There are several ways left to be a sponsor at FLOAT. There are still some decor sponsorships available, as well as a few design competitions. Plus you can expand your presence at FLOAT with branding on our event shirts, taking out ads in our convention guide and more. Click here to ask us about these opportunities.
Can I still get a booth in the Vendor Showcase?
Can I be involved with FLOAT and not have to attend?
Yes. FLOAT offers a digital sponsorship that allows you sponsorship credit as well as other benefits and you never have to walk in the venue. Click here to contact us about these opportunities.
When can we set up our booth at FLOAT?
Am I allowed to sell things at FLOAT?
Can my product be a “FLOAT Exclusive?” In other words, can we be the only X product shown at the convention?
Questions about the CBA Exam at FLOAT
Is the CBA Exam being offered at FLOAT 2024?
How do I sign up for the CBA Exam at FLOAT?
You will need to visit qualatex.com and visit their education page in order to begin the CBA process. FLOAT is merely hosting the testing; we have no involvement in it’s operation.
Does the CBA Exam conflict with any other activities at FLOAT?
Can I take my CBA Exam at FLOAT and not be registered for the convention?
Questions about FLOAT and COVID
What is FLOAT’s official policy regarding COVID-19?
Will COVID testing be required to attend FLOAT?
Will we be required to wear masks at the convention?
Will I be able to socially distance at FLOAT?
Questions about Packing for FLOAT
What is the weather like at FLOAT?
What is the dress code at FLOAT?
Now, there are some exceptions to these rules, and those are our theme events:
Opening Night – Delegates either wear lots of orange or dressed as the theme for the night (this year’s theme is rock concert, so you are invited to come in your favorite musical attire.)
Beach Party – Dress as you would to a tropical themed party. Some people attend in flowered shirts, hula skirts, and some brave souls attend in swimsuits…it’s entirely up to you.
Designer Awards Gala – Semi-formal attire AT MINIMUM is strongly suggested, and tuxedos and formals are encouraged. PLEASE do not be that person who shows up in a t-shirt and shorts…
What should I bring with me to FLOAT?
Bring a jacket or some comfy outer layer as sometimes the classrooms can get a bit chilly. This is HIGHLY recommended if you either get cold easily or are from a normally warmer, more tropical locale.
Bring your money! Many of our vendors at FLOAT actually have items to sell, so you don’t want to find yourself going home empty handed.
Another VERY important thing to consider is bringing some kind of portable battery source to recharge your mobile phone. The same thing happens every year; people all day long scramble in classrooms to find available outlets. Save yourself the grief and bring your battery backup.