Balloons, banners and bowls, oh my! When it comes to decorating your home for a special event or celebratory gathering, we’re of the opinion more is always better. From novelty napkins to personalized piñatas and everything in between, here are the best spots in Vancouver to pick up all your must-have party supplies.
You’ve probably spotted this over-the-top party supply store from the window of the Skytrain. The iconic emporium has been in business for more than 30 years and is a convenient place to pick up last minute decorations, costumes and specialty items. Decorations cover just about every milestone you can imagine (birthdays, baby showers, weddings, retirement parties, graduations) and thematic party supplies range from casino props to nautical napkins to fog machine refills. Celebrating Cinco de Mayo? The assortment of inflatable cacti, plastic sombreros and chilli pepper string lights are perfect for an at-home Mexican fiesta.
If you want to take your special occasion to the next level, sometimes it’s best to bring in the professionals. Upright Décor works with individual party planners and large corporations to put on upscale events and weddings. Their extensive collection of party rental supplies includes chair covers, table linens and decor, outdoor accents, backdrop fabrics, centrepieces and even large-scale furniture. Decorative items and furnishings are available in numerous colours and styles to help match your colour palate and aesthetic. The full-service event company also offers design consultations, as well as set-up and takedown services.
There’s an almost-infinite array of inflatables for sale at this balloon boutique in Cedar Cottage. Oversized helium balloons, floating archways, Mylar balloon bouquets, balloons inside balloons – they’ve got it all! Thematic inflatables are available for special occasions (birthdays, milestones, holidays) and there are also custom printing options to personalize your picks. Want to make a big statement? We love the show-stopping 40-inch gold and silver letter and number balloons that let you spell out a celebratory message. Alternatively, install a balloon drop from your ceiling (prices start at $160) and shower your guests with colourful orbs.
The North Van outpost of this national chain stocks party supplies for all seasons, in more than 100 unique themes. Inventory changes weekly; in the summer months the aisles are stocked with Hawaiian-inspired paper lanterns, Tiki-themed tableware and tropical cocktail accessories that’ll help you create the perfect backyard luau (don’t forget your faux hibiscus leis and hula skirts). Once temperatures cool, you’ll find thematic décor and accessories to take you from Oktoberfest to Chinese New Year to St. Patrick’s Day. Party City also stocks an unrivalled selection of Halloween costumes for toddlers, kids, teens and adults.
Skip the online e-vites and impress your party guests with creative paper invites from this Fourth Avenue boutique. This Kitsilano shop has been specializing in unique and interesting stationary supplies and giftware for two decades. Owner Peter Emery stocks cards for almost every occasion (from sentimental to sassy) alongside gift wrapping materials, party accessories and colourful novelties. The selection of scented candles and apothecary products make great hostess gifts.
If you’re hosting an event on a budget, Dollarama is a one-stop shop for all your party needs. The national chain stocks everyday household goods and an affordable selection of seasonal holiday goodies. Think oversized green sunglasses for St. Patrick’s Day, novelty heart banners for Valentine’s Day, and plenty of red and white décor come Canada Day. You can also pick up plastic dishes, serving ware and cutlery if you don’t want to risk ruining your fine china on unruly party guests. And be sure to pick up cleaning supplies to deal with the aftermath of your big bash.
Crank up the nostalgia factor at your next party with oversized versions of your favourite childhood party games. Bonkers owner and event planner Dani Vachon offers a series of custom-built life-sized versions of classic tabletop games such as Jenga, Connect Four, Checkers and Pick Up Sticks. Available for rent, these interactive games are suitable for all ages and are a great way for party guests to have a little fun while engaging in some friendly competition. Visit the East Van showroom to try the games out for yourself.
You never know what you’ll find browsing the aisles at Welk’s, but you’re sure to leave with some surprising knick-knacks. A true general store, this eclectic Main Street emporium has been a local landmark since 2005. Shelves are stocked with household items and kitchen supplies, beauty products, stationery, groceries, games and unique specialty items; meaning you can grab a bag of tortilla chips, cocktail bitters and scrapbooking supplies all under one roof. Inventory changes weekly and there’s always a good selection of seasonal decorations and accessories (masks, glasses, banners and much more) to help get your party started.