Americans are still buying fun and fantasy. During a recent visit to Orlando, our family attended Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party at the Magic Kingdom in Disney World. After experiencing the event, I came back with a whole new perspective on how willing consumers are to spend money on “the experience”. This led me to think about costume gift deliveries all over again. And now, I believe there is still good money to be made by adding the service -- even in a recession.

Costume gift deliveries were the foundation of the very first business I launched. Being young, I had no appreciation for the fact that I was launching the business during the Jimmy Carter recession. But, the timing couldn’t have been better. People needed a smile and a good laugh. It was a very successful enterprise -- and I believe it could work again in today’s tough climate.

When I was shopping for my wig (no -- I’m not a natural Paula Dean blonde!!) the owner of the costume shop was telling me about a Santa Claus convention he had recently attended, along with 500 other people. It was a successful gathering of mostly men (and their wives) who earn a good living playing Santa and Mrs. Claus in communities around the nation. People are paying a lot of money for the appearances.

It stands to reason that consumers would also pay for a visit from the Fairy Godmother, the Tooth Fairy, the Good Elf, and a thousand other creative characters. The gift is important, but secondary, to the character visit.

While you may not be inclined to dress up and deliver gifts, if you have the spirit for it, you might just discover a lot more cash this season. It worked for me and it might be just the ticket to distinguish yourself from the competition. If you’re interested, check out our website for the book, Building A Better Balloon Businesses. You’ll enjoy a fun read about my first business, and pick up a lot of good ideas for costume, gift, and balloon deliveries.