Most party problems come from things nobody asked about before the deposit was paid. Take these questions to every party supply store you contact, compare the answers side by side, and get the important ones in writing.
When to book: hosts usually book party supply and balloon stores about 1–2 weeks ahead for custom balloons. Saturday evenings and the holiday season (November–December) and graduation season (May–June) fill first.
The Questions
- Do you offer helium balloon fills, and how long do they float?
- Can you make custom balloon arches or garlands, and do you deliver?
- Do you take orders by phone or online for pickup?
- What is the return policy for unopened items?
- Do you rent any items (backdrops, stands, costumes)?
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Tips
- Order helium balloons for pickup on the day; latex balloons often float less than a day.
- Buy tableware for about 10% more guests than your RSVP count.
Before You Pay a Deposit
- Get the date, start and end times, exact items or services, total price and payment schedule in writing.
- Read the cancellation, weather and rescheduling terms.
- Check that the business name on the contract matches the one you researched.
- Pay deposits by credit card where possible, for buyer protection.