Where is the Best Place to Get Birthday Party Supplies? Whether you're going big with balloons and banners or keeping it low-key with themed tableware and cake toppers, buying birthday party supplies online has become the go-to move for good reason. From first birthdays to milestone celebrations, the range of party supplies you can find online is huge - and way more convenient than running around town trying to gather everything in person.
Best Option
Planning a birthday party should feel fun - not stressful - and that's exactly why Oriental Trading continues to be our #1 pick for party supplies. This retailer has been a trusted name for nearly a century, and it's easy to see why so many people come back again and again. Whether you're organizing a birthday bash for a child, teen, or adult, Oriental Trading provides everything you need in one spot (well, maybe not the cake... ). From cute and colorful to stylish and sophisticated, the themes here cover every age, every interest, and every type of celebration.
Best variety of birthday party supplies online - or anywhere!
One of the biggest reasons to love Oriental Trading is the variety. You'll find more than 350 birthday themes, which is the largest selection of any party supply store we've seen. That includes over 200 themes for kids, more than 100 for adults, and nearly 50 for special occasion themes. Want something classic like horses or monster trucks? They've got it. Planning a party for a "Very Hungry Caterpillar" fan, a "Disco Cowgirl" turning 40, or someone who's all about Naruto? It's all here - plus lots of generic themes that still feel personal, like "Beach Bum" or "Girl Squad". And, you don't have to dig around to piece everything together. Each theme comes with matching items like banners, balloons, plates, party favors, and even personalized decorations. That means less time planning and more time enjoying the moment.
Super-smooth online shopping
You'll also appreciate how easy it is to shop by theme, holiday, age group, or occasion. Oriental Trading's website makes it simple to narrow things down and stay organized. There are filters just for adult parties, gendered themes for kids (if you want them), and even seasonal options if your birthday party falls near a holiday. If you find a theme you kind of like but it's not exactly what you had in mind, scroll down to the Recommended Collections section and see what suggestions Oriental Trading has to offer - maybe the "Taco Party" isn't quite right, but the "Taco Bar" or "Chili Bar" party supplies will hit all the right notes! Everything here feels well thought-out and easy to browse, whether you're doing a quick order or planning a full-blown shindig.
From budget to bulk, it's all here
Another area where Oriental Trading really shines is pricing. They offer a nice balance of low-cost single items and bulk deals, so you can shop based on your guest list and your budget. For example, when you click on the "Under $5" section, you'll find nearly 4,000 options, like a "Puppy Party" plastic tablecloth for $3.99 or a set of eight 9" "Fishing Party" dinner plates for $2.99. On the other hand, if you're planning for a big crowd, you can find more than 9,000 options in the bulk category - anyone need a nearly 2,000-piece set with place settings for 240 guests for just $299.99? Oriental Trading is the best place to get allllllll the birthday supplies for a large group without breaking the bank. (Our favorite? Probably the "Movie Night Sleepover Tent Kit for 6", if you're interested... )
Lowest prices, guaranteed
Even better? Oriental Trading backs up their prices with a 110% lowest price guarantee. If you spot the same item cheaper somewhere else, they'll not only match the price - they'll beat it by 10%. That shows a serious commitment to giving you the best deal, especially when you factor in their free shipping on orders of $25 and up.
90-day satisfaction guarantee - but watch out for the rewards membership
Also, this party supply store's 90-day satisfaction policy means you can shop with confidence. If something isn't right, you can reach out by phone or email to ask for a refund, exchange, or return. Just make sure to read the fine print at checkout - some customers have accidentally signed up for Oriental Trading's Fun Rewards + program with a monthly charge, so it's smart to double-check your selections before finalizing your order.
Excellent reputation for the customer service team
What about customer reviews? Oriental Trading has earned more than 12,000 5-star ratings across review sites and an "A+" rating and accreditation from the Better Business Bureau. Shoppers often mention how helpful and responsive the customer service team is, especially when there's a last-minute issue with an order. Some even called them their "go to" store for goody bags - for seniors, for class parties, for any celebration you can imagine! On the flipside, a few shoppers were frustrated by the optional rewards program mentioned earlier, but this was usually fixed quickly (and fully refunded) after contacting the support team.
Best of the birthday party supply stores
As a one-stop birthday party supply shop that offers more themes, better prices, and tons of ways to customize your celebration, Oriental Trading is hard to beat. From start to finish, they make the entire planning process faster, cheaper, and more fun. You'll find everything you need, from decorations and favors to party games and tableware - and you won't have to jump around to a dozen different sites. Whether you're planning for five guests or fifty, Oriental Trading makes it easier to throw a birthday party that feels personal and memorable without blowing your budget. Once again, this retailer earns our highest recommendation in a really competitive industry - we're happy to give Oriental Trading a perfect 5-star rating!
Great
Target has long been the go-to for affordable home upgrades, stylish wardrobe refreshes, and one-stop errand runs - and now, it's also a surprisingly useful place to find birthday party supplies. While it's not a party-specific retailer, Target's collection has grown to include themed kits, color-coordinated décor, and classic essentials like banners, tableware, and piñatas. Whether you're planning a low-key family dinner or a full-blown backyard celebration, Target gives you the flexibility to shop your way - in-store, online, or even via same-day services like Drive Up or Shipt.
Well-stocked but might require a bit of effort
In terms of selection, Target's inventory is broad but a little scattered. You'll find hundreds of options for party banners, thousands of disposable tableware sets, and a rotating assortment of piñatas, décor, and party favors. That said, Target doesn't separate supplies by occasion or age group as clearly as some specialty stores. Everything is grouped by product type - cups, napkins, balloons, and so on - so you'll need to do a little digging to find exactly what fits your party's vibe. That may be ideal for shoppers who enjoy building their own look, but less convenient for anyone hoping to shop by complete theme, like "Shark Party" or "Fairy Tea Party."
Now featuring themed birthday party supply bundles
One of the biggest updates to Target's offerings is the inclusion of themed party decorating kits. These sets can help simplify your party planning by bundling coordinating items like balloons, banners, table covers, and more. However, you should know that many of these kits are sold by third-party vendors through Target's website - including one particular party retailer we reviewed separately. Depending on your needs and how quickly you want your items, it might be worth comparing prices and shipping times directly with that store before completing your order on Target's website.
All of today's most popular trends and themes
Target offers a good balance of price and popularity. You can find a 30-count package of beverage napkins for just $2, a 20-count of snack plates for $3, even a "Pin the Teeth on the Shark" game for $5. Expect plenty of modern styles, bright colors, and lots of on-trend themes like Bluey, Spider-Man, and Minecraft.
At least 90 days on returns, plus multiple ways to get your order
Target's return policy is still one of the best around: you get 90 days for most items, with a full year to return anything from Target-owned brands. RedCard holders also enjoy a 30-day bonus return window. Plus, with multiple shipping and pickup options - traditional delivery, Drive Up, in-store pickup, or same-day delivery with Shipt - you can get your birthday party supplies however and whenever it's most convenient.
Lots of reviews on individual party items
With over 60 years in business, Target has earned a strong reputation for reliability. It holds an "A+" rating and accreditation from the BBB, and there's a reason why so many people swear by their regular Target runs (even if the "run" is just to the laptop or the app). Better yet, because this is such a well-known retailer, most of the birthday party supplies have hundreds if not thousands of reviews, making it super-straightforward to see which ones live up to expectations and which ones to not add to your cart.
Fantastic one-stop shop for birthday party supplies and beyond
For most shoppers, Target makes birthday party prep feel like one less thing to stress over. The selection is wide, prices are competitive, and the convenience factor is hard to beat. Just keep in mind that you may need to do some comparison shopping - especially when third-party kits come into play - and be prepared to piece together your theme if you want something super specific. Other than that, you should expect an easy-breezy time when buying birthday party supplies at Target!
Very Good
Planning a party can be a big job - but Party Expert makes it a lot easier. This Canadian retailer has been around since 1999 and has earned a solid reputation for helping people like you pull off birthdays, baby showers, Halloween events, and more. Whether you're throwing a big birthday bash or just picking up a few fun decorations, Party Expert gives you a one-stop shopping experience with a huge selection and budget-friendly prices.
Great variety for kids and adults
What makes Party Expert stand out is how much they offer. You'll find everything from themed plates and banners to costumes, games, and even baking supplies. If you've got a child's birthday party coming up, you can browse through almost 100 different themes made just for kids - think Minecraft, Barbie, Super Mario, Pokémon, and more. And if you're celebrating an adult's big day, there are more than 20 themes to choose from, with everything from elegant and classic styles to fun and funky designs like "Cheers & Beers" and "Better with Age". We love the mix of popular licensed characters that kids might be begging for, along with the themes they could also be hoping to see that aren't tied to a particular brand or franchise. (And hey, there's nothing stopping us big kids from enjoying a little Nintendo joy on our birthdays too!)
Affordable party supplies, with free shipping over $65
When it comes to pricing, Party Expert holds its own against some of the US-based retailers we reviewed. You can get an 8-pack of party hats for $1.99, birthday sashes for a little over $10, and a package of eight 9" lunch plates in licensed themes for under $4. Just keep in mind that you'll need to spend over $65 to get free shipping to the US.
Keep an eye out for savings
There are always deals to be found, too. During our review, we got a pop-up offer of a 15% discount if we signed up for Party Expert's emails, and you might even spot a sitewide sale in the banner at the top of the site (past offers have gone as high as 30%!). That makes it easy to stretch your party budget and still get everything you need to make it feel special.
Return policies could be a bit more generous
However, it's worth knowing that Party Expert's return policy is stricter than some rival birthday party supply stores. If you change your mind, you've got 30 days to return your items - but only if they're unopened, in perfect condition, and you have the original receipt. Those returns are also subject to a 10% restocking fee, which can add up if you're sending back a larger order.
Thousands of 5-star reviews
Still, most shoppers have great things to say about Party Expert. On their site, almost 3,000 customers have left reviews, and the average rating is an impressive 4.6 stars. That says a lot about the company's customer service and product quality. The store is also rated well across other review platforms and has built up a strong reputation over the years.
Good all-around shop for birthday party supplies
If you're looking for variety, value, and a trusted place to buy all your party supplies, Party Expert delivers. The themes are fun, the prices are competitive, and the selection goes way beyond just paper plates and balloons. Just take a few extra minutes to make sure you've picked the right items, since returns here aren't quite as flexible as some competitors. Overall, though, Party Expert makes it easy to get all of the supplies you need for a party that everyone will remember.
Very Good
Big Dot of Happiness has grown from a small family business into a major name in party supplies - and it's easy to see why. With more than 10,000 verified 5-star reviews, this company is clearly doing something right. Their clean, modern website makes browsing a breeze, their products are made in the USA, and they offer a huge range of fun and festive items for birthdays and other celebrations. Add in tons of customization options, and you've got a retailer that's genuinely fun to shop.
Packed with themed party options
When it comes to selection, Big Dot of Happiness holds its own - especially if you're planning a kids' birthday bash. You'll find everything from traditional birthday motifs to creative designs like "Shark Attack", "Gone Squatchin'", and "Monster Bash". Adults aren't left out either, with party themes covering milestone years (18 through 100), golden birthdays, and "spicier" designs like "Older, Wiser, Hotter" (okay, then!). With all of the themes conveniently grouped together, Big Dot of Happiness offers a great one-stop shop if you want your party to look cohesive without the hassle of mixing-and-matching supplies from different stores.
Personalized touches make it memorable
One of Big Dot of Happiness' biggest strengths is personalization. From banners and balloons to photo props and temporary tattoos, you'll find many items that can be customized with names, dates, or even photos. Not everything here is personalizable, but when you do find those options, it's a fun way to add a unique, keepsake-quality detail to your celebration - perfect for scrapbooks or memory boxes down the line.
Good pricing for themed bundles
Prices here are fair for what you get, especially if you're buying themed sets. For example, a charger kit place setting for 8 is typically $19.99. The only minor downside is that specific "birthday" decor is a bit limited - especially for adults.
Might have to get basic tableware elsewhere
However, another less-awesome aspect of buying your birthday party supplies at Big Dot of Happiness is the absence of some staples like cups, plates, and other tableware. When you use the Tableware filter, you're usually going to see accessories to dress up your table and keep it on-theme, like drink coasters and napkin rings - but you'll need to buy the cups and plates separately (and we couldn't find any in the inventory here).
Fast shipping that delivers on time
Moving back to the "wins" column for Big Dot of Happiness, you'll love their "Order Today, Ships Tomorrow" promise. That even includes personalized items, which is rare in this category. Every order ships within one business day and arrives on or before the promised delivery date. It's a huge perk if you're short on time or planning a last-minute celebration.
Reliable service and a satisfaction guarantee
Customer service here goes by the cheerful title "Happiness Heroes," and the company backs every purchase with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If Big Dot of Happiness makes an error on your order, they'll fix it at no extra cost. Returns are accepted within 90 days, though they do need to be for unopened, unused, and non-personalized items - and customers are responsible for return shipping unless it was a company mistake.
Great reputation
Big Dot of Happiness has an "A+" rating from the BBB and a polished online shopping experience, but still flies a little under the radar in terms of widespread name recognition. That said, the thousands of verified five-star reviews speak volumes, and the company's commitment to quality, fast shipping, and US-made products helps it stand out in a crowded market.
Room for growth, but still a top contender
If you're throwing a party - especially for a child - and you want personalized, themed supplies that ship fast and look great, Big Dot of Happiness is well worth a look. While you'll still have to get some basic birthday party supplies from another store, this is a fantastic choice for making your celebration fun and memorable. We're happy to move this retailer up since our last review!
Very Good
When it comes to Walmart and birthday party supplies, you're not likely to be surprised by what you find: lots to choose from, almost overwhelmingly so, at really low prices! This mega-retailer is about as ubiquitous as it comes for buying, well, anything, and you'll get a sense of just how popular it is in the party department when you see the thousands of reviews on many individual items.
Use filters to save time
So that you don't get bogged down by decision fatigue, start out by using any of Walmart's many filters for birthday party supplies. Do you have a character in mind, like Minnie Mouse or Stitch? Is it a milestone occasion, like "Baby's 1st Birthday" or "40 and Fabulous"? Or maybe you're going for a theme like "Race Car" or "Pirate Party"? Those are just some of the ways you can get started with your shopping trip on the Walmart website!
Themes are a smart place to start
We'd recommend using the Birthday by Theme button as the best starting point for getting your shopping done in one fell swoop. That's the easiest way to get a kit that has everything you need, from banners to plates and napkins to tablecloths. And, as you'd imagine, everything here is pretty budget-friendly - we spotted a 98-piece basketball-themed birthday party kit for just $18.99, a 38-piece Pokémon party pack for $22.88 (plus $8 in shipping), and a Minecraft-themed party favor kit with 48 pieces of under $10, just to name a few.
Understand the differences in order fulfillment
One thing to watch for as you consider birthday party supplies on the Walmart website is the difference between items that are fulfilled by Walmart vs. third-party partners. That can affect quite a few aspects of the shopping experience, from returns (typically 90 days for Walmart-sent items, as little as 30 days for marketplace partners) to shipping. One easy rule of thumb? Most items that say "Save with W+" are going to be fulfilled by Walmart itself, so you'll benefit from more generous policies. But, it doesn't need to be a dealbreaker if you find the perfect piñata or the cutest candles from a partner - just make sure you understand all of the ins and outs before you click "pay now".
Many ways to get your order delivered (even by drone!)
A benefit of Walmart's global presence makes itself really obvious when you decide how you want to get your birthday party supplies. From in-store pickup of online orders to drone delivery in certain markets (no, we are not kidding!), in addition to regular shipping, the choice is yours.
Read those product reviews!
Do pay attention to those reviews on individual birthday party supplies, though. You may be tempted to get that Best Party Ever Spincredible candle cake topper - until you see that it barely squeaked out 3.5 stars from 64 ratings; maybe it's better to go for the Way to Celebrate Blinking Multicolor topper instead, since it got a near-perfect score across just as many ratings. Walmart customers will give it to you straight, so why not take advantage of their honesty?
No surprise that this is a great one-stop shop for birthday party supplies
Let's face it: of all the places you could buy birthday party essentials, Walmart is likely to be the most one-stop shop of them all. We're talking plates, cups, decorations, and more - and probably the cake, the drinks, and the gifts, while you're at it! The shopping experience does have the tendency to overwhelm, though, with almost too many options to choose from. Still, we can't be mad about getting plenty of party themes, lots of customer reviews, and those low prices that keep Walmart famous, right? We give this retailer a solid score among the options for buying birthday party supplies.
Good
If you're planning a celebration and want stylish, budget-friendly supplies without the hassle of visiting a dozen different stores, Factory Direct Party is worth adding to your party-planning list. This online retailer specializes in event supplies for all kinds of occasions - birthdays, holidays, weddings, and everything in between - and offers a surprising mix of both classic and luxe-looking products. While the site takes a more design-forward, age-neutral approach than some of its competitors, there's still a lot to love here if you're throwing a birthday party for kids, adults, or a mix of both.
Browse beyond "birthday" section for best selection
The "birthday" tab on Factory Direct Party's site may feel a little underwhelming at first glance - mostly balloons, candles, and tablecloths -but don't let that stop you. A little browsing goes a long way, and you'll quickly discover a wide range of plates, decorations, party favors, banners, and more that can easily be tailored to a birthday party, especially for adults or older kids. Expect plenty of sleek golds, soft pastels, and monochrome sets that can feel more upscale than what you'll find at a dollar store or discount chain. Just don't expect any licensed merch here: no Bluey, no Harry Potter, you get the gist.
Great pricing
Pricing is really low at Factory Direct Party - like $0.89 for a numbered birthday candle or $1.79 for a plastic table cover - and the retailer seems to have done away with the minimum order requirements we saw the last time we evaluated the store. Plus, orders over $49 qualify for free shipping, and the flat rate of $6.95 for smaller orders is still reasonable compared to some competitors. And, if you keep your eyes peeled and you're willing to get some marketing emails, you might be able to get a discount on your first order by telling Factory Direct Party where to reach you - we got $12 off!
A few too many "out of stock" items
However, Factory Direct Party's Achilles heel is inventory. At the time of our most recent visit to this birthday party supply store, there were whole categories that were almost entirely out of stock (like fringe curtains, where only 6 out of 18 options were available for purchase, and all of the age-specific "Happy Birthday" latex balloons). Depending on what you're shopping for, you may still have to shop somewhere in addition to Factory Direct Party.
Retailer has made some positive changes
Going back to some more positive notes, Factory Direct Party has made some big improvements since our last review. You'll now get a full refund on any new, unused merchandise returned within 30 days - you just need to cover the return shipping. And, if you happen to find the same item (identical SKU) at a lower price from another retailer, they offer price matching both before you buy or up to seven days after you place your order. That's a nice perk for deal-seekers who like to shop around without the fear of missing out on the best value.
Thousands of verified 5-star ratings
Another area where Factory Direct Party shines now is customer feedback. The site has earned an "A+" from the BBB again, but also can claim a 4.6-star average rating from nearly 6,000 verified buyers. Many of those reviews include customer-uploaded photos of decorated tables, themed setups, and real-life use of the products. Shoppers often praise the quality and appearance of the supplies, noting that they feel "fancier than expected" for the price. Of course, no company is perfect: some customers have mentioned delays in reaching customer service or gotten slower-than-expected responses over the past few years. Even so, most shoppers report that the company was ultimately helpful and resolved their issues.
Better than average for birthday party supplies
At the end of the day, Factory Direct Party is not the best option if you're looking for highly specific birthday themes for kids or if you only need a handful of items (which might be out of stock) - but for those planning a medium-to-large gathering, especially with a neutral or luxe vibe, it's a decent place to shop. Between the high customer satisfaction, broad selection, and money-saving policies like price matching and free shipping, this retailer makes party planning feel a lot more festive - assuming what you need is in stock!
Good
If you're the kind of party planner who loves to add a personal, creative touch to every detail, Michaels might just be your perfect match for birthday supplies. Best known as a go-to craft store, Michaels goes beyond paint and glue guns to offer a wide range of decorations, DIY kits, and themed party essentials that let you bring your celebration vision to life. Whether you want to hand-make centerpieces, customize your own invitations, or just pick up a ready-to-go balloon arch kit, Michaels has both the supplies and inspiration to help you do it your way. It's especially great for anyone planning a birthday with a unique theme or a handcrafted flair - and with regular sales, coupons, and in-store pickup options, it's as practical as it is creative.
Not just for the crafty crowd
But, let's say you want a little less DIY and a little more done-for-you. Is Michaels still a good choice for birthday party supplies? Surprisingly, the answer is yes - with over 7,700 items in the party section! We were stunned at the variety of themes on offer, from basic "Happy Birthday" balloons to full University of Georgia tailgate party packs with service for 16 and decorations to boot.
Use filters to save time
To make your life easier, you'll want to use the filters to narrow down the options at Michaels. Maybe your birthday girl loves Dr. Seuss, or the birthday boy is a huge fan of Baby Shark: those are just some of the choices you'll find in the Character filter. It may take a little more browsing to find exactly what you need, though: the filters aren't quite as robust at Michaels as we've seen elsewhere.
Great pricing, especially on themed sets
But, we can't argue with the prices! We spotted a 171-piece set in a somewhat generic "Happy Birthday" balloons-and-confetti design for $61.99, which included 24 place settings (large and small paper plates, cups, spoons, forks, straws), a banner and a tablecloth. That price dropped by 30% with a seasonal promo code that was helpfully displayed at the top of the site and right underneath the price of every item on the site. How about something a little more grown-up? The "Cheers" themed decoration set for $30.49 is all about the balloons: not just 24 latex balloons and several star- and heart-shaped foil balloons, but also 2 foil balloons in the shape of a champagne bottle and a whiskey bottle! (Thankfully, it also includes the balloon pump.)
Free shipping on orders of $50+
As you're shopping, pay attention to the delivery options. While it's possible to get in-store pickup or even same-day delivery on some birthday party supplies, most of the items that caught our attention were only available via shipping - mostly because they're coming from third-party partners of Michaels. In general, shipping is free if your order is at least $50, so it might be worth it to round out your cart with some extras, if your balloons and banners aren't quite enough to meet that threshold. However, some of those third-party partners may give you free shipping regardless - like that "Cheers" set of balloons we described.
60 days for returns
Overall, you can expect a 60-day return window on any party supplies you buy at Michaels. They don't get into too many details about your options for returning online orders to a local store, though, or if you're going to have to foot the bill for the postage. We'd love a bit more clarity there.
Could use more reviews on party supplies
And reputation? Michaels has an "A+" from the Better Business Bureau, which isn't surprising for such a big-name retailer that's been around since 1973. We do wish that there were more reviews on the individual birthday party supplies, though: we only saw a handful, if any, on most products (and typically none on the ones sold by third-party partner retailers). That's part of the reason we don't rate Michaels as highly as some of its competitors on our list.
Good retailer but not extraordinary for birthday party supplies
If you see something at Michaels that you love for your next birthday bash, go for it! We don't have any concerns about this store's reliability or customer service. But, when we look at how Michaels compares with rival options we evaluated, this craft superstore comes in a bit behind our top picks. The selection is vast but a little harder to shop, and we'd really need to see a bit more feedback on the party supplies to get a better read on what people think after they put their plates, backdrops, or balloons to use. Michaels is above average overall, but maybe not likely to be your go-to favorite the next time you're preparing for a birthday party.
Fair
If you're throwing a birthday party and you're all about that "curated" look - think handmade touches, a soft color palette, and just the right amount of whimsy - then browsing Paper Source might feel like stepping into a Pinterest board come to life. This brand has been around since the early '80s, starting out in Chicago with a mission to spark creativity and thoughtful connection. These days, they've got just under 120 locations across the US, plus an online store that brings their signature style to the party supply space.
Crafty, curated, and very on-brand
Paper Source is perfect for people who love details. Whether it's personalized stationery, greeting cards, or pretty paper goods, this site leans heavily into a handmade, artsy aesthetic. Their party supplies are no exception. You won't find Marvel characters or flashy cartoon animals here - what you will get are hand-drawn animals, playful florals, and trendy, tasteful themes. If your idea of a birthday bash includes coordinated paper straws and favor bags that double as decor, Paper Source might feel like a dream.
Selection is limited, especially for birthdays
Now, the tradeoff to all that stylish design is the relatively small selection. Paper Source carries around 80 items that are specifically tagged for birthdays. That includes a mix of plates, banners, and favor bags, but it's definitely not the most extensive inventory out there - especially when you start counting up how many of the selections are wrapping paper or gift bags and not really "party supplies". You'll find a few things more traditionally associated with birthday party necessities, like gold glitter mini party hats for $13.50 or large-and-small birthday sprinkles-themed paper plates. However, overall, this is more of a boutique-style selection than a one-stop shop for every party supply you need.
Think outside of the (birthday) box
You'll also find plenty of items outside the "birthday" category that could work for parties, so it's worth browsing beyond the birthday tag. We'd suggest going to the "Party Supplies" category and clicking around, particularly if you need items like treat bags or tableware, because there's not much to pick from in the more limited "birthday" section.
Prices lean upscale - but not outrageous
Paper Source isn't trying to compete with discount party sites: you'll spend slightly higher than average but nothing unreasonable if you're shopping for the look as much as the function. A birthday glitter fringe banner might cost you $18.50, or spend a little less ($15.50) and get the "party animal" design with multi-colored tassels, for example. Spend at least $50 and you'll get free shipping on your order.
Returns are fair but not overly generous
If you change your mind about something ordered from Paper Source, you have 30 days to return unused items for a full refund, or 60 days if you're returning with a gift receipt for store credit. It's a fairly standard policy, though not especially flexible. Make sure you keep your receipts, and don't expect to return anything that's been opened or used.
Reputation is a mixed bag
Paper Source gets points for product quality and aesthetic, but reviews are a bit thin - especially when it comes to birthday party supplies specifically. The brand has a "Not Rated" designation with the BBB and fewer than 100 reviews total on major platforms like Trustpilot and Sitejabber. Most of the positive feedback centers around their paper goods, not their shipping or customer service (which gets frequent "dishonorable mentions" in the ratings that are out there). So if your order here goes off without a hitch, you'll probably love Paper Source. If not, you may be tempted to leave your own 1-star rant!
Fun to browse, but likely won't have everything you need
The bottom line? Paper Source is a decent choice if you're looking for sophisticated, design-forward birthday decor and you're not set on paying bargain-basement prices. But if you need excellent customer service or a wide range of party themes, there are better options higher on our list. For those who want every detail to feel personal and artsy, though, Paper Source could be a fun place to start (even if you wind up having to shop at other stores as well).
Subpar
Let's be honest - when you land on Party Cheap's website, it's a bit of a time warp. The homepage feels like it hasn't had a facelift since the early days of the internet, and if you're someone who likes clean design and smooth navigation, you might find yourself backing away slowly. But don't judge this party supply store by its homepage alone - there's more going on behind Party Cheap's awkward visuals, even if you have to dig a little to find it.
Decent inventory, minus the licensed characters trending today
First off, the inventory here is larger than you'd think. There are over 1,000 items tagged specifically for birthdays, and that includes everything from banners and party favors to paper plates and milestone decorations. Themes cover a good range too - superheroes, pirates, and dinosaurs make appearances, but you'll probably need to find those under the "Themes" section, not in the birthday-specific category on the Party Cheap website. And, as an FYI, you won't find many of the licensed themes your little ones might be begging for - no Bluey or Paw Patrol here.
Party supplies for all ages
Adults aren't totally left out, though. While there's not a specific "grown-up" category, many themes focus on milestone ages like 30, 40, or 50. The rest lean kid-friendly or general-purpose, unless you again go to the "Themes" section of the site - maybe your 21+ birthday bash is casino-themed, or you'd like something a bit more... risque... from the "Adult Party Supplies" category!
Not the easiest to shop, but prices are on point
Pricing is where Party Cheap actually shines - if you can find what you're looking for. The site doesn't offer much help in terms of filters or navigation tools, so you'll need to rely on the search bar and some patience (when we searched for "Bluey", we got everything imaginable in the color blue instead). For example, banners range from $2.24 (for an expandable birthday banner) to $89.99 (for an all-weather jumbo "Happy Birthday" yard sign set), balloons fall between $0.81 for one mylar balloon and $23.62 for a package of 100 made of latex, and hats/tiaras/headpieces go for anywhere from $0.68 to just under $20. These prices are definitely competitive, especially if you're shopping for a big event on a budget.
Spend at least $39.99 for free shipping
Shipping is fairly standard. Orders usually ship within one to two business days, and ground shipping is free if you spend at least $39.99 - just keep in mind that this offer excludes certain items like prom kits, and you can't combine it with other discounts. It's not a bad deal, but you'll want to double-check your cart total before checkout to make sure you're getting the most savings.
Reputation is thin, and returns aren't very customer-centric
Now for the real deal-breakers. First off, returns are tough here. You've got 60 days to send things back, but only if they're unopened and unused. Plus, there's a 20% restocking fee, and you're on the hook for shipping both ways. Not exactly customer-friendly. Speaking of which, the feedback online isn't great either. Party Cheap (still) isn't rated by the BBB, and the handful of reviews scattered across other sites are mostly negative or outdated. It's hard to get a read on what, exactly, Party Cheap is doing - because there's just so little to go on.
Competitors do birthday party supplies better
If you're all about saving money and don't mind a bit of a clunky shopping experience, Party Cheap might be worth checking out for birthday party supplies - but only if you're feeling adventurous and have time to hunt around. Otherwise, you'll probably be better off shopping elsewhere. There are other online party supply stores on our list that offer similar prices, more popular-and-trending themes, better return policies, and a lot less frustration. Party Cheap still lands low on our list.
Flawed
Dollar Tree is a well-known American discount retail chain where everything in the store is priced at $1.25 or less, making it a go-to spot for budget-conscious shoppers. With thousands of locations across the US and Canada, Dollar Tree offers a wide variety of products - from party supplies and seasonal décor to household items, snacks, and craft materials. The company has built a reputation for value and convenience, especially for those looking to stretch their dollars without sacrificing too much on selection. Whether you're planning a party, stocking up on everyday essentials, or just browsing for deals, Dollar Tree makes it easy to find more for less - in theory, anyway.
Be ready to buy in bulk
While you might love popping into your local Dollar Tree to grab a few things, their online store works differently - especially when it comes to birthday party supplies. You won't be able to buy a few packages of plates or a set of candles; instead, you should plan on buying in bulk (which isn't what most of us are looking for, when planning a celebration). For example, if you like the Iridescent and Metallic Rainbow Party Plates, you'll have to buy a case of them - and that's two dozen 18-count packs! Now, granted, that's still a bargain when you realize you'll only pay $30 (plus shipping, calculated by size and weight at checkout, unless you select your local Dollar Tree store and choose free in-store pickup) - fancy plates for days...
Limited in themes and availability
But, that's assuming that you'll actually find the birthday party supplies you need, and they're in stock: beyond the basic solid-color tableware (which you'll find listed separately from the birthday section), there are only 8-12 themes to choose from at Dollar Tree, and many of them came up empty during our visit to the website. Those options may or may not include Dinosaur, Mermaid, Dessert, Unicorn, Shark, Princess, Birthday Diamond, Birthday Candles, Farmhouse Floral, Confetti, Balloons, and Iridescent/Metallic Rainbow. However, in the Confetti theme, the only available products were birthday candles; Balloons came up with a strange collection of fringe curtains, graduation gift bags, patriotic pull bows, and baby shower balloons; and, Shark came up with a 404-type error.
All sales final for online orders
One more unhappy little detail you should be aware of: for online purchases at Dollar Tree, all sales are final unless your order arrives incomplete or damaged. Yes, you read that correctly: not only do you have to buy in bulk, but you have zero options for making a return. Given how often we found negative reviews on the few birthday party supplies that were actually in stock, we're not sure why anyone would chance placing an online order here!
Failing grades all around
Unsurprisingly, this company has an "F" grade from the Better Business Bureau, stemming from its failure to respond to 235 of the complaints filed there. The BBB also references "government actions against the business" as part of the rationale behind their failing grade. The rants keep coming over at Trustpilot; one customer there described placing three online orders for in-store pickup at three separate locations, having a negative experience every time, and getting zero response from anyone at Dollar Tree HQ. Are you surprised?
Don't shop for your birthday party supplies here
It would be impossible for us to give Dollar Tree any higher of a rating. No one wants to be forced to buy birthday party supplies in bulk, the selection here is terrible and mostly out of stock, and the customer service is equally poor and unavailable. Visit your local Dollar Tree if you're looking for rock-bottom prices on a few birthday party essentials, but give this retailer's online store a hard pass.
Continued from above...
Whether you're going big with balloons and banners or keeping it low-key with themed tableware and cake toppers, buying birthday party supplies online has become the go-to move for good reason. From first birthdays to milestone celebrations, the range of party supplies you can find online is huge - and way more convenient than running around town trying to gather everything in person.
After all, these days most people aren't just grabbing a generic pack of napkins and calling it a day - they're curating an experience. That means coordinating colors, matching character themes, and finding just the right decorations to make the birthday guest feel like a star.
Trends come and go, but some popular birthday themes have serious staying power. For kids, it's all about characters: Bluey, Paw Patrol, Frozen, Spider-Man, and the like. Adults often lean toward milestone themes like "Dirty Thirty," "Fabulous Forty," or "Cheers to 50 Years," with plenty of gold, black, or rose gold glitter. And gender-neutral, pastel-themed parties are also on the rise, especially for first birthdays or backyard celebrations. Balloon garlands, DIY photo booths, and coordinated color palettes are big right now too.
Of course, birthday party supplies cover more than just decorations. You might be shopping for paper plates, cups, napkins, and utensils, or maybe you're hunting down themed goodie bags, centerpieces, candles, balloons, photo backdrops, and yard signs. If you're crafty, you can go all out with custom creations, but if you're not, there are plenty of kits that make it easy to pull together a polished look with minimal effort.
So why are more people buying party supplies online instead of in-store? For one, a lot of brick-and-mortar party stores have closed, making it harder to shop locally. Even if you do have a store nearby, chances are they won't carry the full range of items you're looking for - especially if you want something trendy or personalized. Shopping online lets you explore hundreds of themes, compare prices, and get everything shipped right to your door, often with fast delivery or pickup options. It also helps reduce stress since you can plan ahead, check things off your list, and avoid last-minute chaos.
If you're browsing for the perfect place to buy birthday party supplies online, here are a few things to look for:
Whether you're planning a simple gathering or an all-out bash, buying party supplies online gives you more options and less hassle - and the experts at Top Consumer Reviews have rated and ranked some of today's most popular stores, saving you even more time. Now all that's left is to buy the cake!
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