Planning a party, no matter the size, is never a small feat.  In Union County, in particular, you’re driving to a smattering of stores, hoping to piece-meal together the supplies needed for the perfect event.  Fortunately, that process will now be a lot more streamlined with the opening of party planning store extraordinaire, Party Starters.

Located at 5880 W. Highway 74 in Indian Trail, Party Starters is the first and only party supply store in the county!  Owned and operated by husband and wife team DJ and Elicia Durst, owning their own business has been a goal of theirs for some time, after spending years in the retail business.  At first, they weren’t sure what their business would be, but quickly realized there was this untapped opportunity in Union County to bring customers something they couldn’t find elsewhere in the region.

“For me, this is a chance to be my own boss,” said Elicia.  “And I feel like this store really fills a need in the community.”

Offering the expected universal, disposable tableware, seasonal goods, and party favors, they also sell goods associated with 24 different, licensed characters from the likes of Frozen, Paw Patrol, Mickey Mouse and so many more.  Since opening in December, they’ve found that balloons have been their biggest seller, particularly their super shape letter and number mylars, as well as their air-walkers, which are 3- to 4-foot tall/wide characters where the entire body is one big balloon! 

Another unique balloon item they sell are that of Floato Balloons, which use personalized photos as the face of the balloon.  For example, make your two-year-old’s smile the balloon itself, and add your own text message to wish them the happiest of birthdays.  The Floato Balloon possibilities are endless and appropriate for any occasion – birthdays, retirement, or create an inflatable meme, just because!

Independently owned and operated, Party Starters can work with the customer to source goods that a big chain couldn’t, in any sort of timely manner.  And they work with decorators, event planners, and amateurs alike to find items that are otherwise only available online.

“We provide a personal touch because we’re a small business,” adds Elicia.

With a grand opening and ribbon cutting scheduled for February 7th, Party Starters has found a niche in Union County, and looks forward to helping its customers achieve the party of their dreams!