One thing I love about supporting small businesses is that there’s a business, entrepreneur or maker for everything. My favorite “niche” of small businesses is party shops! I’m not sure if it’s because I like hosting, all of the fun accessories that come with throwing a party, or a little bit of both, but nothing makes me happier than walking into a local party supplies store.

Throwing a Party while Supporting Local Businesses

Today, I’m sharing some great local shops in Chicago where you can grab your goods and throw an awesome party, get together or shindig! From casual to an all-out bash, each of these places has a completely different vibe and unique offerings. I selected different pieces from each shop/maker to come together with our St. Paddy’s Day bash at home to showcase how easy it is.

We went for a clean and modern look for St. Patrick’s Day. We used a mix of items from local shops and wedding leftovers (dear lord, save any unused items from your wedding!).

Our big green clover and “lucky” balloons were from Paris312, the confetti and “stay gold” headband was purchased from Bow & Arrow Collection and lastly, the copper striped plates (under the white w/ gold trim smaller plates) were from Bash Party Goods and the rainbow balloon garland came from Luft Balloon, both purchased at Festive Collective. We also picked up locally made gluten-free and dairy-free cupcakes from our local grocery store; they’re made in Illinois by Sweet Ali’s.

Check out each of the shops below, all coming from different neighborhoods around the city and sporting different vibes. I challenge you to swap out an item or two from a big box shop to support a local business next time you’re throwing a party!

Bow & Arrow Collection

Located in my own neighborhood of Wicker Park, Bow & Arrow Collection is a modern gift and party goods shop. In a trendy party of town, this modern shop fits right in with their black and white theme. Every time I go here I find several things I “need” and a few items that others in my life would love too. The staff is friendly and always makes for great conversation.

This is where I picked up my confetti and “stay gold” headband.

Festive Collective

On the opposite end of the spectrum, Festive Collective is all about vibrant colors! Located near my home as well in the Logan Square / Palmer Square area, this little shop is home to several different Chicago local makers under one roof.

The shop owner is also the creator behind Bash Party Goods – a range of party supplies like napkins, plates, plasticware, decor and more! Along with her own line of supplies, Festive Collective also carries Luft Balloon – handmade colored balloons that are 100% unique to any you will ever find because they’re made from 100% organic material and are 100% biodegradable – now that is how I like my party supplies! As if being handmade and unique wasn’t enough, the eco-friendly bow on top just sings so sweetly to my heart. 😉 Also under the Collective roof you’ll find Anne & Kate paper goods and vintage finds from Barbie Roadkill.

On top of housing all of these great local businesses under one roof, Festive Collective commonly hosts private events and workshops with other different makers around town. I’ve been dying to attend one of them!

This is where we picked up our copper striped party plates and rainbow balloon garland.

Paris312

And finally, we have Paris312, located in Lincoln Park. Although the shop is open for you to walk in, it seemed more of a studio space than a “shop.” The staff was SO nice and we chatted for awhile too. Inside you’ll find open tables and current projects they are working on for clients. This local brand not only has balloons for purchase, but they also do event styling, so you can use their space as a venue and balloon concierge services where you can get balloons delivered to you or someone else’s door – how cool!

I highly encourage following them on their social media because they have great styling and balloon ideas, plus just chatting in-store with the staff you’ll be sure to get the best idea possible for your needs.

This is where I snagged the clover and “lucky” balloons.