Now that summer is officially here, it promises warm days and family gatherings. Many of us, myself included, are thinking of summer get-togethers, picnics, potlucks, and anything to get the kids out of the house to enjoy the sunshine and warm weather (and take a break from those addictive screens). But who wants to plan a party that is just the same as the year before?
Enter Affordable Inflatables, a company that has been adding bounce to parties across the southern Twin Cities area for over a decade. Owned by Darin Delaney, this Inver Grove Heights- Eagan-based business offers more than just fun; it brings communities together.
Inflatables: A Fun Purchase That Turned Into a Community Builder
Founded 13 years ago after purchasing an inflatable slide at Sam’s Club, Darin started Affordable Inflatables by renting out the slide to offset the purchase cost. The venture quickly escalated from a side gig into a thriving business offering various entertainment options, from inflatable bounce houses and obstacle courses to movie screens, photo booths, party buses, dunk tanks, tents, tables, chairs, and much more.
"Our most popular items are the bounce house with a slide and the slip-and-slide waterslides," Darin shares. "But what excites me the most is helping our local schools and churches create fantastic community events." Darin is deeply invested in supporting local community groups, frequently partnering with them for fundraisers and family fun nights, particularly in Apple Valley and Eagan.
This focus on community engagement is a big part of what makes Affordable Inflatables what it is today. For instance, Darin is developing a unique double dunk trailer equipped with a 360-degree camera that can live stream to social platforms—a perfect addition to any fundraising event. And who doesn’t love the opportunity to share their entertaining experiences on social media?! He also plans to launch a nonprofit that utilizes his new ice cream truck and this dunk trailer to support various community-based causes.
Minnesotans Love Their Snow Cones
While we only get a few months of summer fun each year, those summer months come with extreme heat. And what better way to cool down and enjoy some time in the shade than with a snow cone?
"One project I'm passionate about involves our snow cone machines," Darin explains. "We are willing to donate the snow cone machines, all the syrup and supplies, and a table or one of our lemon stands so your kids can set up the snow cone stand. We are looking to raise money for the homeless and disabled Veterans. It’s a great way to teach kids about charitable giving, letting them choose their cause while having fun.”
“If we raise enough money, I was thinking about taking a group of kids on the party bus some weekend and having the kids ride out to a homeless shelter or help give out the money to people in need,” Darin shared.
Bouncing into Family Fun
The company's range of services doesn't stop at inflatables, snow cones, and ice cream trucks. It also provides photo booths for events like weddings, with options ranging from magic mirrors to selfie booths. "Photo booths are a hit, especially at school events," Darin notes. “Little kids love posing for photos with their family members and friends. And they love the ability to keep their photos after the fact.”
Darin has enjoyed the success of his business so much—and putting smiles on faces—that he is also exploring new frontiers with plans to open an indoor event center. While the space has not yet been secured, his vision includes a private party venue that can also serve as a launchpad for aspiring entrepreneurs to enter the party rental business. “I’m always happy to work with aspiring business owners in this space. They’ll be able to use the space and store their gear in the warehouse that will be attached,” Darin shared.
A Focus on Bettering Our Community
Its extensive inventory, community focus, and flexibility set Affordable Inflatables apart. "We offer some of the longest rentals in Minnesota," Darin says. "Our customers can pick up on a Friday and return it on Monday or later, which provides more bang for your buck."
As we gear up for a season of celebrations, whether a block party, a church event, or just a fun family weekend, Affordable Inflatables is ready to deliver joy and excitement. It’s not just about the fun, though. Every bounce, slide, and splash echoes Darin’s deeper mission—to create joy and help build a stronger community.
"In the end, it's about bringing fun to everyone and helping create lasting memories," Darin concludes with a smile. "That’s what really matters."