Party Party

Month: June 2015 Issue 1 Volume 16

contents Regulars

June 2015 Issue 7 Volume 15

Party Party team

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Leader with Rhys Thomas

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News – what’s the latest?

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Licensing news – the latest from the world of licensing

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Quick-fire round – with OppoSuits’ Jelle van der Zwet

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Party Patter – the retailers have their say

Editor Rhys Thomas rhys@lemapublishing.co.uk

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Features

Advertisement Manager Paul Yeomans pyeomans@lemapublishing.co.uk

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Magic all round – Pioneer Europe details its unique new Disney and Marvel licensed latex balloon range

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Road test – Party Party’s mini testers and their parents put Smiffys’ new Halloween range through its paces

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Halloween – expectations are high for this year’s Halloween

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Are you being served? – Palmer Agencies’ Sergio Battaner talks Halloween and customer service

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Risque – the party industry’s naughtiest sector

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Weddings – making the bells and tills ring

Publishing Director Mark Naish mark@lemapublishing.co.uk

Production Director Paul Naish paul@lemapublishing.co.uk

Managing Director Malcolm Naish malcolm@lemapublishing.co.uk

Circulation Manager Robert Thomas robert@lemapublishing.co.uk

Lema Publishing Ltd

PUBLISHING

1 Churchgates, The Wilderness, Berkhamsted, Herts, HP4 2UB Telephone: 01442 289930

At the heart of retail The views of the contributors expressed in this journal are not necessarily those of the publisher. Comments, letters and criticism are welcome.

Columnists 16

Talk to an Angel – The devil is in the detail for Halloween success says Angels’ Director, Emma Angel

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Columnist Mark Brett tackles the impact of online retail giants Ebay and Amazon

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The Word – BAPIA’s John Bowler talks safety

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Recipe of the month – A special double whammy with Spider-Man and something summery

Fully stocked warehouse. Contact us now to benefit from our special offers.

0203 667 2721

www.dressupamerica.co.uk

sales@dressupamerica.co.uk

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message from the

PUBLISHING

editor...

Rhys Thomas

At Heart of Retail

Also published by Lema Publishing

W

izzard have been wishing for it to be Christmas everyday since the early 70s, but personally I’d prefer perpetual Halloween. Getting into costume for a ghoulish night out is a personal highlight for me each year – although not the only time you’ll find me in some form of costume.

But the season of scares has also risen to prominence as a hugely important and is sure to be a hit with kids and adult Disney profitable event for the entire party industry, fans alike. Be sure to check out this month’s and shows no sign of slowing down. With extra special balloon recipe for more on costumes, accessories, decorations, novelties how to get the most out of this new range. and so much more, you name it and someone Fancy dress is a huge part of Halloween is selling a Halloween variant of it. and the sector has been back in the news Although Halloween is still a little way recently as Claudia Winkleman spoke for off, we know that early preparation is of the first time since her daughter’s terrible paramount importance in this industry. and distressing accident last year. Claudia So, this issue, we’ve taken a look at lots of spoke on BBC’s Watchdog about how her Halloween product, and spoken to suppliers daughter’s costume caught alight, and the and retailers to find out tips team investigated for successful business this fancy dress products October. and called for a Our mini-testers and change in safety their parents put a selection regulations.

The first carved of Smiffys’ brand new It’s a tricky pumpkins were actually Halloween range through subject, but what turnips. its paces in our latest road the Watchdog test, which you can find on investigation failed page 18. The kids absolutely to mention was that Halloween can trace its loved their time celebrating children’s fancy dress roots back more than Halloween early! items are classified 2,000 years to Celtic We also caught up with as toys under EU Palmer Agencies Sales festival Samhain. regulations, and as and Marketing Director, such, are subject to Sergio Battaner, to learn a far stricter testing little more about its new product and how th th kids’ kid ’ clothing. l th than other Many fancy dress the company came to be a leading name for suppliers, including Palmer Agencies and Halloween. Our Halloween category feature Smiffys, were quick to arm their customers starts on page 22 and is a great guide to with all the information they needed to Halloween 2015. reassure and educate consumers about the We also shine a spotlight on risqué issue. We will continue to follow this issue, ranges and products for wedding parties this but if you still have questions or are unclear issue. Plus there’s a special in-depth look at about any aspect of safety regulations and Qualatex’s superb new Disney licensed latex testing, let me know and I’ll do my best to balloons. From Disney classics like Mickey and get the experts’ advice. You can contact me Minnie Mouse to Frozen and Marvel, the range at rhys@lemapublishing.co.uk.

FANCY THAT!

If you would like to subscribe to any of our other market leading titles please call Robert Thomas on 01442 289930 or email your request to robert@lemapublishing.co.uk

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NEWS Summer deals heating up with BAPIA BAPIA has been making some changes in the past few months to ensure members are receiving the most bang for their buck. In addition to ehancing its website www.BAPIAonline.com to make it more user-friendly, the industry alliance has a few other interesting updates.

BAPIA has partnered with AVIVA Insurance to provide the Public, Products and Employers Liability Insurance cover as well as the Legal Insurance cover for its members. Aviva is one of the UK’s largest and most respected insurers, and they are also bringing additional member benefits – details coming soon.

With summer just upon us, BAPIA is is also offering a summertime special that you won’t want to miss. New members who sign up as a result of a referral from an existing member before 31 July, will receive a St Johns Ambulance First Aid Kit that conforms to BS8599-1:2011. This First Aid Kit is a must-have when working on-site, and it’s stocked for up to 25 people. Check out BAPIA’s Referral Program section on the website to learn more about this offer. Existing BAPIA members who refer a new member will receive a 10% discount on their renewal rate.

Other referral offers are also available.

Master craftsmen Fun Shack is inviting everyone to the ball with the launch of a brilliant new range of Masquerade Masks.

Venetian masquerade carnival masks have been part of the mystique of Venice for over 800 years, and in the 15th century Venetian mask makers were officially recognised as master craftsmen. The three new ranges of masks – Argento, Oro and Platino – are all handcrafted to make them unique and follow in this tradition.

For more information or to place an order for the new range of Masquerade masks, call 0113 2001050, email sales@fun-shack.com or visit www.fun-shack. com

Funky Pigeon swoops onto the scene Online greeting card order and delivery website Funky Pigeon has expanded into the party market with the launch of Funky Party. The WHSmith-owned website – found at www.funkyparty.com - offers more than 20,000 products for kids and adult parties, boasting everything from themed tableware, balloons, and decorations to fancy dress and accessories.

In a post called Introducing Funky Party on the Official Funky Pigeon Blog, the company said: “Hopefully by now you’re aware of the brand new addition to the Funky Pigeon family – Funky Party. It has everything you could need to make your special occasions even more memorable thanks to our huge range of party supplies and fancy dress.”

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Inflate your knowledge with Amscan Amscan International has announced dates for its new training course programme to suit all balloon decorating abilities, taking place at its Milton Keynes showroom from June 2015. Using its extensive selection of Anagram foil and high quality latex balloons, each training session will equip attendees with the product and guidance to build some stunning balloon decorations.

Competitively priced, each course will cost only £120 per person.

Amscan’s expert team of instructors will offer key advice and tips on the best techniques to follow to get the best out of the product and achieve a fantastic end result.

Those new to the world of balloon decorating will find the beginner courses ideal, whereas individuals with experience can benefit from a variety of intermediate and advanced level courses. Specialty sessions are also available including weddings, event décor, seasonal events and balloon modelling with the new range of 260A premium modelling balloons.

Also new for 2015 is an exclusive course combining party products and balloon décor to create a beautifully coordinated theme.

“It’s a recognised fact that education in any field results in marked improvements in all aspects – and balloon décor is no different,” said Chris Horne, Amscan’s Creative Projects Manager. “With Amscan’s unbeatable range of co-ordinating products and stellar lineup of highly qualified instructors, this new programme of training courses is specially designed to give you the very best information available – all in the inspirational surroundings of the Amscan Showroom.”

Attendees can expect to receive a full day of training with lunch and refreshments provided, in addition to £50 worth of Amscan Decorator vouchers to be able to order product online, plus an informative manual to take home.

Courses have already begun and run throughout the year. For further information and to register to attend visit www. amscandecorator.co.uk or call 01908 288508.

U.S. Patent No. 6,782,675

New Disney balloons are available in 10 popular properties in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Premium Quality • Stunning Prints • Bright Colours Visit www.QualatexEurope.com for more information.

©Disney USA ©2015 PBC BM-PEL1505055

NEWS Top of the blogs Party Party columnist, UK agent for Boland Party and all-round industry veteran Mark Brett has launched his very own blog. The Party Blog which can be found at www.thepartybogc.org - launched at the end of March, and Mark has already been busy updating it with his thoughts and insights.

He told Party Party: “My motivation is to provide information, points for discussion and occasionally proffer my own opinion on what’s happening within our marketplace. Occasionally, if I think it relevant I will step outside of our industry and post blogs about items in the hope that they made shed some informative light.”

Mark welcomes feedback and comments about his posts.

Window on the World Izzys Party Shop This issue we focus our gaze on Izzys Party Shop in Haywards Heath, West Sussex. Owner Roy Gibbard opened the store – named after his 16-year-old daughter Izzy – with his wife 10 years ago this November. They specialise in all aspects of balloon décor, partyware, fancy dress and confectionery.

Pictured top is a window display created as part of

Pioneer welcomes Brett Smith Pioneer Europe Limited has appointed Brett Smith as its new Commercial Manager. In this position, Brett is responsible for sales team leadership, developing national account relationships, and other general management responsibilities.

Brett joins Pioneer Europe with over 23 years’ experience in retail store operations, marketing and procurement, and field staff management. “My experience and passion have always been driven by retail, and managing and developing teams of people,” said Brett.

“To be at Pioneer working with the sales team and selling directly to retailers is a perfect mix of all things for me.”

Marie Gransbury, Managing Director, Pioneer Europe Ltd, added: “We are delighted to welcome Brett to our team. Not only will he bring a tighter focus to our sales team development and organisation, but he will also be a great asset in the establishment and maintenance of our national accounts.”

the town’s yearly art trail, an event Roy has supported since it started several years go.

“Usually we would give our window over to local artists to display their work for the two weeks of the trail, but having built up a reputation for our window displays over the years we were invited by the organisers to create our own piece for the trail,” he tells Party Party.

“We upped our game with our window displays and we are doing better than ever. We have got some very regular customers for our balloon décor, including Gatwick

DN21’s finest

Airport, Bright FM and British

R H Smith & Sons, best known for the Smiffys brand of costumes, dress-up and party products, picked up the DN21 Business of the Year 2015 Award at a glittering awards ceremony at The Blues Club in Gainsborough on 4 June. The DN21 Awards is a new event that celebrates and rewards the local business community within the DN21 postcode - one of 32 in the Doncaster postcode area. With awards such as Retailer of the Year, Green Business of the

It is our everyday customers

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Year and Customer Service Team of the Year, the awards celebrate the wealth of local business in the Gainsborough community.

The judges cited R H Smith’s efforts in pushing into new markets as a major factor contributing to its win. The company is delighted to have added another award to its growing trophy cabinet, and thanked its workforce for their continued dedication, passion and pride in its products.

Airways, and our balloons have been on Good Morning Britain. that are our bread and butter, however, and we hold a very good reputation for miles around. We love what we do and have lots of fun thinking of new window displays!”

If you think you have a window display to be reckoned with, get in touch at rhys@lemapublishing.co.uk.

www. ub esu .co www.rubiesuk.com

Phone us on 08453 070707

Licensing News

The road to BLE begins Registration is now open for Brand Licensing Europe 2015, the licensing exhibition that will run 13–15 October 2015 at London Olympia. Visitors can now register for free at www. brandlicening.eu.

The show also launched The BLE Blog recently (www.thebleblog.com), featuring posts from the team on getting the most from the show, as well as the latest news, initiatives, promotions, and insights aimed at both visitors and exhibitors. There will also be a number of guest posts over the coming months from show partners, speakers and exhibitors on a range of topics.

BLE Event Director Darren Brechin said: “BLE has so much to offer; alongside the exhibition there are the free educational programmes, the only retail mentoring programme of its kind in the UK and a competition to bring new properties to market. The BLE Blog is the next step in the show’s evolution - providing an ideal platform for us to shout about what we do, but also gather together our huge network of show partners to offer valuable content to the licensing industry.”

The more balloons the merrier Amscan International has added to its latex balloon offering with a new range featuring vibrant four-colour print. There are five licensed designs featuring major Disney and Marvel properties, including Frozen, Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Disney Princess and Spider-Man, which are in stock and available to order now.

Each pack of the helium, quality 11” balloons provides a mixture of coloured latex balloons combined with up to three different character pose designs. Also added to the latex collection are 14 new four-sided print designs featuring popular licensed characters from pre-school favourite Peppa Pig to the action-packed Marvel Avengers.

“This is an exciting new innovation to be able to offer to retailers featuring some of the hottest children’s properties,” said Anton Schygiol, director of latex and foil balloons at Amscan International. “The new four-colour print balloons bring the characters to life and offer a new perspective to enhance the overall party theme. Each pack can be used to create a fantastic balloon bouquet that makes a perfect visual statement.”

The new balloons can also be coordinated with Amscan’s range of licensed foil balloons by Anagram (as pictured), in addition to its broad selection of tableware, decorations and party accessories to create a complete theme.

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Disney names new Consumer Products head Leslie Ferraro has been appointed as the new President of Disney Consumer Products, effective immediately. It’s the latest move in a recent reshuffle of Disney’s senior team.

Leslie moves from her former role as Executive Vice President of the Walt Disney Parks and Resorts division to fill the space of former DCP President Bob Chapek, who stepped up as Chairman of the Parks and Resorts division in February.

“Leslie is a highly talented, proven executive with a strong track record of creativity and innovation,” said Disney CEO and Chairman, Bob Iger. “Having managed worldwide marketing and sales for one of our largest businesses, she brings a global perspective and deep knowledge of the company and its brands to her new position.”

COO Thomas Staggs added: “She has a deep understanding of our brands and franchises, as well as a solid vision for how they fit into the global consumer marketplace, both of which will serve her extremely well as she leads the Disney Consumer Products team into the future.”

Looking slick, Superman Fans of DC Comic’s two most iconic heroes can showcase their allegiance with pride and still remain stylish thanks to a new deal between OppoSuits and Warner Brothers.

OppoSuits has secured the license for official Batman and Superman suits, featuring both heroes’ signature logo and OppoSuits signature quality and cut.

Jelle van der Zwet, OppoSuits Co-Founder and Director said: “This is a very exciting opportunity for us and we expect these two lines to be extremely successful. Both suits are currently in production and will be ready to ship from our UK DC around mid-August 2015, just in time for both Halloween and Christmas.”

Dress like a princess Travis Designs’ fantastic Snow White, Cinderella, Belle, Rapunzel and Sleeping Beauty Disney Baby Princess character outfits are now in stock and ready for retailers to order.

The pretty dresses include a headband and bloomers and are finished with lovely trims and delicate printed ribbon. These gorgeous styles are available in age 3-6, 5-12, 12-18 and 18-24 months.

Retailers looking to stock the range should get in touch now as the Princess outfits have been flying out and a wide range of retailers are now stocking the range including independents, High Street retailers and web retailers.

For more information or to order Disney Baby Princess character outfits today, visit www.travis.co.uk or contact Travis Designs on 01442 289898 or costumes@travis.co.uk.

Movie

News

The reel deal – Movie calendar 2015 Movie-themed parties are always a winner, and the healthy slate of big budget sequels and original releases this year is sure to give this a boost. We’ve already been blessed with superhero smash hits and family animations from the world’s biggest studios, and as we head into the summer months there’s even more big-screen excitement, with potential hits releasing every month until year’s end.

Here, Party Party has rounded up 10 of the biggest for the second half of the year – a director’s cut if you will. All promise to see partygoers heading to their local party shop to get into character all the way up until Christmas.

June Jurassic World, 11 June: Action, A-list actors and dinosaurs - a killer combination.

Minions, 26 June: These yellow fellows are taking over the world!

November The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part Two, 20 November: Jennifer Lawrence’s time as heroine Katniss Everdeen comes to its action-packed conclusion.

The Good Dinosaur, 27 November: Pixar’s second original release of the year also gives us our second dose of dino action.

July Inside Out, 24 July: A hilarious-looking return for the world class animation studio after a quiet 2014.

August The Fantastic Four, 6 August: Marvel’s original superhero group gets a modern reimagining.

October Pan, 9 October: Hugh Jackman stars as Blackbeard in a new adventure in Neverland.

Spectre, 23 October: Bond is back. Let the bad Connery impressions commence!

December Star Wars: The Force Awakens, 18 December: The biggest film franchise in the universe returns.

Jem and the Holograms, 26 December: The 80s pop music classic is back in this reboot.

All UK release dates taken from IMDb.com

www.partypartymag.co.uk

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Feature Qualatex

Magic all around Featuring some of the world’s best-loved characters and entertainment properties, Pioneer’s latest collaboration brings unique Disney magic to the latex balloon sector

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ny party decorated with Pioneer Balloon Company’s new range of Qualatex latex balloons is sure to go off with a bang for all the right reasons, thanks to its latest collaboration with Disney.

The partnership brings some of Disney’s most popular characters and entertainment brands to life with a new range of latex balloons. Featuring a unique, all-round print, Pioneer has poured all of its latex balloon manufacturing and printing expertise into the range, meaning they look great from all angles. From classic Disney characters like Mickey and Minnie Mouse, to global phenomenon Frozen and even superheroes The Avengers and Spider-Man, the new range has something for everyone.

A selection of the most popular properties, including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Disney Princess, and Frozen, are now available in 5” and 11” rounds. They’re also available in 12” Quick Link Balloons, which are ideal for adding an extra special party atmosphere to any venue, are quick and easy to make, and add a real wow factor to proceedings. The remaining properties are available in 11” rounds (6-ct. and 25-ct. bags).

This variety of sizes and new designs complement and coordinate with existing Qualatex balloons, including the exclusive Disney Bubble balloons.

Retailers, decorators and other balloon professionals will be able to add a new dimension to children’s

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“

Our new range of Disney latex balloons offers more decor opportunities as well as profitable coordinated bouquets with a high perceived value -

themed parties by in three different sizes: creating stunning balloon 5” and 11” rounds, and décor combining the full 12” Quick Link Balloons. range of coordinating The new balloons also Qualatex products. coordinate well with The 6 ct range comes existing product offerings, in retailer-friendly such as the popular packaging with stunning Spider-Man and Avengers Disney designs making Bubble Balloons. the bags very eyeSpider-Man and catching. Pioneer has Avengers latex balloons kept the size of the are perfect for all young Marie packaging the same as aspiring super heroes.

Gransbury, MD, Pioneer They are available with a its Bubble packaging, making it easy to display Happy Birthday message Europe Ltd the whole Disney range in 25ct bags and nonon spinners and the walls. message designs are “This brings a new dimension to Disney available in 25ct bags and 6ct retail bags. theme parties, and creates an “We have seen good sales of Avengers opportunity to expand our and Spider Man Bubble balloons,” said retail proposition,” explains Andrew Storey, Product and Licensing Marie Gransbury, Managing Development Executive at Pioneer Director for Pioneer Europe Europe. “In fact, Avengers has been our Ltd. “Our new range of top selling Bubble after Frozen in the first Disney latex balloons offers four months of 2015, so we are expecting more decor opportunities as good sales of Marvel latex balloons too.” well as profitable coordinated Following the soft launch at Spring Fair bouquets with a high earlier this year, most of the new Dinsey perceived value. We look product is now available to buy. Initial forward to seeing what orders have already been great, with our customers will create plenty of reorders coming through to with this new range.”

Pioneer. Top sellers so far have been the The latest additions Frozen and Avengers range, so retailers to the range are Spiderlooking to add some Disney magic to Man and The Avengers, their offering should get in contact today perfect for all young, on 01279 501090 / 0800 281215. aspiring superheroes. The launch coincided with the recent Head cinema release of The Avengers: to page Age of Ultron, which will keep 42 for a Marvel’s superheroes front of mind special throughout the summer until the balloon DVD release in September. recipe The Avengers latex are available featuring in 5” and 11” round latex balloons. To the new accommodate demand, Pioneer has Marvel latex balloons introduced Spider-Man latex balloons

”

Quick Fire

Round

Quick Fire Round with…

Jelle van der Zwet, Co-Founder and Director, OppoSuits What OppoSuits product is no party complete without?

What trio of OppoSuits products best illustrates that sentence?

Without a doubt, our Testival suit - one of our key styles.

Cashanova, The Jag, The Rudolph

Who are your three dream party guests from any time in history?

2015 will be a success for OppoSuits if…

In no particular order: Armin van Buuren, Louis van Gaal, Doutzen Kroes

New styles such as Badaboom and Skeleton perform well within the OppoSuits collection this year.

What OppoSuits products are you most excited about this year?

The official Batman and Superman suits! We have recently secured this Warner Brothers license and these two exciting lines will be available from August 2015.

What was the first-ever OppoSuits product?

Our very first OppoSuits product was The Orange in the Summer of 2012. This orange suit was specifically targeted at Dutch football fans during the European Championships in 2012 and was the launch of the business.

Sum OppoSuits up in a sentence A unique and stylish fancy dress concept aimed at men who don’t take themselves too seriously but would like to maintain a sense of style.

Jelle van der Zwet

What did you dress up as at the last fancy dress party you visited?

To be honest, I haven’t dressed up as something/ someone for quite some time. I was never a fan of a standard fancy dress outfits and always wanted to create something different in order to stand out - which is, I guess, how we came up with the idea behind OppoSuits.

The last time I was at a specific fancy dress themed event was in London where the theme was around London tube stations. I bought myself a rake from the garden centre and put one of my orange suits on and that was job done. I don’t think many people there worked out that I had tried to dress up as Holland Park!

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s rty love Party Pa ws! your vie to hear ughts our tho Share y now! with us email:

Regular Party Patter!

Party Patter!

k ing.co.u

ublish @lemap

rhys

Party Party talks to retailers to find out the latest word on the street

Adrienne d’Souza,

Roy Gibbard,

A Party Palace, Richmond, London

Izzys Party Shop, Haywards Heath, West Sussex

Adrienne started A Party Palace nearly seven years ago. The store offers personalised sashes and more, which is a huge hit with their customers.

Roy and his wife named Izzys Party Shop after his daughter, and the family business is celebrating a decade of trading this November

What is selling really well for you currently?

Paper decorations are doing great for us, particularly the Fluffy Decorations from Amscan, which are unstoppable. Unique’s spot and stripe range are also doing really well; they’re so eye-catching and work on so many different levels – from the retro to football colours.

There are a lot of big movies out this year. Are movie licensed product selling well for you?

We’re already selling lots and lots of Star Wars product. Minions are also selling very well and we have Jurassic World in now which we anticipate will also be fabulous. You can’t beat a scary dinosaur to boost sales!

Do you offer services such as balloon decorating, and do you find this an important part of your business?

We offer a bespoke sash printing service and we have a very successful glitter writing service for balloons, which people come for from far and wide. We do all of this in-store.

How often do you change your window displays and what themes are best?

Our windows are our greatest marketing tool, so we’re very regular with changing them. Hawaiian always looks strong because of the colours, and we also have great fun with our Halloween windows.

Fran Gore, Fancy Dress Fanatics Ltd, Bristol Fran’s shop is a favourite of local festival goers, who love nothing more than dressing up for the occasion. She’s currently busy working on the store’s brand new website.

What’s selling really well for you currently?

Lots of people are asking for 1990s fancy dress, and Smiffys have a good range for that crowd. Otherwise it depends on local festivals, which we have a lot of here. Most of them have fancy dress themes, so you have to cater to that – Snazaroo face paints are always popular as are UV and glow-in-the-dark products.

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What’s selling really well for you currently?

Children’s lines are very popular at the moment, particularly with a renewed emphasis in the curriculum for World Book Day. Smiffys have a fantastic range of costumes for this occasion and we sell lots of their costumes all year round.

There are a lot of big movies out this year. Are movie licensed product selling well for you?

Absolutely. Frozen is still going strong, and I think Jurassic World will really help sales as well. Minions are definitely popular and good sellers too. The whole superhero theme has really caught everyone’s imaginations and the movie releases help with this even further. Particular favourites are The Avengers and anything Spider-Man. Licensed product has really come back to the fore for us.

How often do you change your window displays and what themes are best?

Generally our window displays are balloon based so they only look their best for a week - especially suffering in the sunlight. So we change them out very regularly. We’ll do other things too, like costumes at Halloween, and sweets too, as we also sell those.

There are a lot of big movies out this year. Are movie licensed product selling well for you?

Not anything specific, but we have people coming in for movie themed parties all the time. I did have a couple of people going steampunk for the recent Mad Max release recently.

How often do you change your window displays and what themes are best?

It’s something I mostly stay on top of, and it depends on what’s going on. Over the summer we change it weekly depending on the theme of the festivals. They really are hugely influential.

Do you offer services such as balloon decorating, and do you find this an important part of your business?

We’re mainly product focused, but that’s more down to manpower and resources – it’s just me here! It’s something I’m interested in though, but I’m currently busy working on the launch of our new website.

www.partypartymag.co.uk

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Regular Talking with an Angel

alert Get the broomsticks out but leave the cobwebs where they are, says Angels’ Director, Emma Angel. Halloween is drawing ever close, and preparation is the name of the game

I

t might feel as if you’ve just washed away the final cobwebs and fake blood stains from last year, but the time to start planning for Halloween 2015 has arrived once again. Love it or loathe it, Halloween is the biggest day of the year for the party and fancy dress industry and requires lots of preparation ahead of time - the earlier you can get started, the better.

Planet Retail (www.planetretail.net) predicted that turnover for last year’s Halloween season would increase to its highest recorded level of between £320-£330 million, and with 31 October falling on a Saturday this year you can be sure that celebrations are going to be bigger and better than ever. Not only is there no work the next day but there are two possible nights to celebrate! Expect big parties on the Friday to lead into even wilder celebrations on the Saturday as ghouls, monsters and vampires across the land come out from the shadows to get their groove on.

Don’t be surprised by a last minute surge in sales either, as payday (traditionally the last Friday of the month) falls on the 30th so be prepared for lunchtime queues!

Saturday parties are fun for even the smallest Halloween fans as well; with no school the next day kids can have a proper party and really get into the spirit. From witches’ brooms to bunting, it’s important to make sure you can provide everything necessary for a super spooky celebration for the whole family. Anything that will make the kids giggle is always a winner, think plastic flies to put on the food, or silly moustaches for mum and dad. Frozen’s Anna and Elsa were the big hits for girls last year and, as every parent with ‘Let It Go’ still stuck on a mental loop knows, it’s a trend that’s going nowhere fast. Make sure you have enough Elsa dresses to avoid any tantrums (from parents or children) and stock up on the classics – from mermaids to Snow White, ensure it’s covered. The same goes for boy’s classics like Spider-Man or Batman,

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Emma Angel is Director of Angels, the world’s largest and longest-established costume house. Emma has over 20 years of experience in fancy dress and Angels has two stores, a fancy dress website – www.fancydress.com - and is the UK distributor of Rasta Imposta, InCharacter and Tinsley Transfers. Emma is the sixth generation of the family to work for the Oscarwinning company and is the first female member to take on a directorial role at Angels.

and slightly more ‘old school’ characters like Darth Vader. Everyone loves a pirate costume so steer parents towards these if they can’t quite make their minds up and, for the tiniest tots, expect mums and dads to be looking for spooky, but cute, creations. As long as you have a selection of outfits from tiny bats to teeny vampires you’ll be guaranteed to put a smile on everybody’s face.

For the strictly grown-ups parties, it’s worth remembering that if people love anything more than Halloween - it’s celebrities. Every October there are numerous online galleries of past celebrity costumes and what the rich and famous are wearing to the big parties this year so embrace it and hop aboard the bandwagon. If Kim Kardashian goes to a party as a Greek goddess, make sure to provide as many togas as you can because there will be a guaranteed surge in demand.

Similarly, fans in need of inspiration will be looking to their idols’ past outfits so swot up on your knowledge and get the best costumes in stock ahead of time. When Katy Perry stepped out as a Cheeto last year she set off a trend of food-based fancy dress that just keeps giving. With everything from a wine bottle outfit to a popcorn dress available this year, make sure you have a couple of easy to wear options to offer to savvy customers.

Keep an eye on popular TV shows and film releases too. The new Star Wars film is released at the end of the year so there will be lots of hype in the build up to that and, with superhero blockbusters Avengers: Age of Ultron and

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Fantastic Four appearing in 2015, now is the time to have a look at your stock and check you have everything you think you might need.

Remember however, that when it comes to trends, it’s essential to avoid getting too carried away and stocking something too controversial. The media last year was awash with stories about Ebola-themed costumes and terrorism-inspired fancy dress that was tasteless and not good for business. Its fine to be risqué, but crossing the line into hurtful and offensive will give your shop a bad reputation so if there’s anything you aren’t certain about make sure to get a second opinion before you buy.

On the other hand, a costume that can elicit a giggle without causing gasps of disgust is sure to be a hit. Funny seems to be more popular than sexy these days so make sure to stock up on your novelty costumes – the wackier the better. People always want to stand out at a party and maybe even get their hands on a ‘best dressed’ prize so anything a bit different will be flying off the shelves. Think customisable Facebook page outfits or the hot trend OppoSuits – even a mankini for any Borat fans out there. Essentially, you want to be catering to the crowd who don’t just see the phrase ‘go hard or go home’ as a motto, but as a Halloween challenge.

With enough planning and foresight Halloween can be not just the busiest event of the year but also the best, so get your face paint on, pop in your fangs and don’t dust away the cobwebs!

For the tiniest tots, expect mums and dads to be looking for spooky, but cute, creations

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Make their big night out even more memorable! y Cheek Hens

Lively Stags

Make the h Hen H or Stag S night’s i h ’ last ast night of freedom extra fun with our o extended range of costumes & wearable accessories!

TEL: +44 (0)1908 288 500 E-MAIL: sales@amscan-uk.co.uk WEB: www.amscan.co.uk ©Amscan 2015, ©Anagram 2015 All rights reserved

Little monsters Party Party’s team of mini-testers and their parents put a selection of Smiffys’ latest kid’s Halloween costumes through their paces. It’s safe to say they loved them…

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miffys has opened its Halloween offering up even further this year to include a greater range of spooky dress-up, accessories, make-up and more.

With a whole range of cute and spooky new looks, from a bright orange Pumpkin Tutu Dress to the Zombie School Girl and the classic Skeleton, there’s something to suit every little monster.

Armed with a whole wardrobe of Smiffys’ costumes, Witches Cauldrons, and Spider Web Fibre Decoration to complete the look, Party Party’s mini testers and their parents told us exactly what they thought.

Scott, nine “The blood splatters are so gruesome, they look wicked!

I like being able to make myself a zombie with the face paints. There’s still loads left so I can change the way I look and go crazy!”

Scott’s dad Mark “Kids love Halloween and Scott especially likes the gorier side of things. I’m always a little hesitant with face paints, but because they’re Smiffys I know they’re good quality.

Scott could paint his face however he wanted because it was so simple to use. It came off easily and even when he smudged a bit where he shouldn’t have it was no fuss to clean up - a definite bonus!”

www.partypartymag.co.uk ww w ww.p pa a artypartymag.co.uk

Mum knows best Sonia is mum to six-year-old Frank, who put the new Halloween range through its paces with his best friends Sal, Eila, and Edie. She was hugely impressed with the quality of the costumes - and as we all know, mum knows best!

“We had a full range, from Zombie Pyjama Girl and Zombie Schoolgirl through to Cinder Witch and Witch School Girl, and also the boys had amazing Grim Reaper-style capes and also a wonderful bat cape with great detail on the back. Plus there were mini cauldrons and stretchy fake spiderwebs!

“Firstly, as mums always pick up on the quality of the outfits, I was really impressed as, when you take them out of the packaging, you can really feel the quality. There’s no thin and cheap material here, crackling with static. It’s all thicker-quality, making comfortable and stretchy costumes that feel far too good to be just dressing-up outfits.

“Next came the handover to the real critics. Let’s face it, children are the hardest to please and if they don’t like it they won’t wear it. If it’s not ‘cool,’ as Frank tells me, it’s not going on! So, I waited with baited breath for the reaction, and the first words that were uttered were ‘ahh these are so cool.’ Bingo! We’re on to a great thing already.”

“All the kids absolutely loved all the outfits and we mums were really impressed at the thought and attention paid to not only the quality but the finishing touches including matching tights, hats and ties among other things. With face paints to complete the look, we’ll have the best Halloween ghoulies in town.

“Well done Smiffys – fantastic costumes that are not only y durable and wearable but, most of all, ‘coolable’ – if there iss such a word!”

Ashton, seven “It’s really, really comfortable and I will look very scary at Halloween. I can’t wait!”

Ashton’s mum Claire: “The costume is very good quality and the shoe covers are a nice little addition. Ashton n loves Halloween and cannot wait to tell his friends about his new costume.

“Kids always get carried away and over excited when they’re all dressed up for a party, so making sure that they’re safe and sound in their costumes is really important for peace of mind. I’m really happy with this s costume from Smiffys, they’ve clearly done e their homework when it comes to keeping little ones safe.”

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Sal, 8 “Awesome. I love the details on the back and the eyes on the hood. It’s super spooky!”

Frank, 7 “Aaaarrrggghhh.

Aaaaaarrrrrghhhhh. This is so cool; I love it. I don’t want to take it off. I am the Grim Reaper!

Aaaaarrrrggghh.”

Edie, 7 “I like the colours. I really like it.”

- Edie loved the costume so much she wanted to sleep in it that night.

Eila, 3 “I really like the dress. I like the colours and stars – it’s like Harry Potter but a girl.”

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Safety first Children’s safety is taken very seriously at Smiffys and all costumes meet the high standards of the EU regulations. Here’s Smiffys’ commitment to safety and testing “At R H Smith & Sons, we take safety very seriously and invest heavily to ensure the integrity and safety of all our products.

“Our dedicated in-house team ensure that all of our fancy-dress costumes are manufactured and rigorously tested to comply with the European regulations.

This is particularly important for children’s costumes, which are defined as Toys under EU regulations as there is an implied hazard due to the “play factor” involved whilst wearing dress-up.

“Children’s costumes must comply with stringent flammability requirements that do not apply, by law, to children’s clothing with the exception of some sleepwear (night dresses and dressing gowns). There are very few legal requirements dealing with the

flammability of everyday children’s clothing. Many clothing items can catch fire and burn when exposed to naked flames and some manufacturers only voluntarily add “keep away from fire” warnings. However, children’s costumes and dress up is regulated and must comply with flammability requirements.

“All of our children’s costumes and accessories are tested to make sure they comply with the EN 71 set of standards in conjunction with our nominated safety partner Intertek - a worldwide recognised safety testing bureau.

Every order is batch tested and verified as compliant at source

by Intertek; unlike other suppliers our safety certificates are continually updated. All children’s costumes including Halloween, are further batch tested once received in the UK Warehouse to guarantee quality and safety assurance.”

EN 71 flammability test “EN 71 is a Europe-wide standard for toy safety and is in 12 parts. Part 2 specifically deals with the flammability potential of a toy. This of course is paramount for a fancy dress costume. To perform the test a 40mm flame (similar to a flame from a match or a candle) is applied to samples of the component materials under controlled conditions. Depending on the type of material, where it appears on the costume and its surface area, either the flame spread rate or its self-extinguishing properties are measured against the requirements setout in the standard.”

Parents say: I really appreciate the CE mark and safety details on the labels of these costumes; it’s often the first thing I check, because making sure anything that children wear is safe is a huge priority. I could already tell by the quality that these were well designed and would expect rigorous safety testing to be part of that design process. Mums and dads can rest assured.

Sonia, mum Every parent wants to make sure anything their kids use, wear, play with, is safe for them and has been thoroughly researched and tested.

Smiffys have done a great job on that front and all the safety marks we parents automatically check for are right there on the packaging. I’d definitely buy with confidence.

Mark, dad

Smiffys Halloween recipe Parents can pick themselves up an entire kid’s Halloween party with Smiffys without plenty of hubble and bubble but no toil or trouble.

Here’s just one recipe, straight from the witches’ cookbook: 1. Choose a costume from the wide selection for boys and girls 2. Add one Witches Cauldron for sweets and treats 3. Plenty of Time 4 Fun Bouncing Eyeballs for fun and games 4. A healthy helping of Spider Web Fibre Decoration to set the scene

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PARTY NEEDS YOU!

Amazon and Ebay... friend or foe?

This month, Mark considers the impact from the giants of ecommerce and the need to adapt

G

ood Omens is a book co-authored by the late Terry Pratchett, the subject which is armageddon and the antichrist. Much of it concerns light and dark, good and evil, plain chocolate and milk chocolate, ying and yang, all of which could be ascribed to the two companies in the title of this article. Not that one is good and the other evil. Most people will have either opinion on each of these quite different organisations.

Personally, as a consumer, both have an awful lot to offer. Moreover, they have in many ways improved the lot of the buying public - so far.

For those that don’t know, Amazon started as a seller and distributor of books and CDs, Ebay as an auction site, where individuals or organisations could put product up for sale to the highest bidder. Very broadly speaking, the same principles apply today, in the way that they both sell. However, the differences are beginning to cloud.

Now, there is very little that cannot be sold on either platform. Ebay remains an auction site, in so far as they do not distribute anything themselves. The subtle changes that are occurring is the use of, for example in the UK, the Argos website to act as a marketplace for selected eBay sellers and the Argos stores as collection points.

Over both of their lifetimes, many individuals and organisations have made their fortunes through the use of either platform. Some still do. There has never been a way in which an individual or organisation could hope to reach such a massive audience before the existence of these two players. But that fact alone is one of the key elements in ensuring that all that glistens is not gold.

They have become retail behemoths; there is very little that they do not sell, from food to property. Quite literally from the comfort of your own home

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INFO Mark began working for the family business in 1977, manufacturing and marketing Fantasia latex balloons in the UK and around the world, until 2008 when he set up shop on his own and created the Fantasia brand. Since 2011 Mark and his wife have been the sole UK agents for Boland Party, a Dutch company who are one of Europe’s largest distributors of party and dress-up products. And that’s not all, Mark has been a Director of HITF Ltd since 1996, and in 2002, he was the founder member of the European Balloon and Party Council, holding the post as chairman from 2002-2012. you can purchase what you want and, in many cases, have it tomorrow.

Currently, Amazon are looking into seeing if you can have it today.

So what can be wrong with this?

Well, ask the multitude of small and large retailers how it is threatening their businesses. Ask them how they are coping with the consumer using them as try-it-out shop windows. Then ask the resellers who use both platforms what they are like to work with.

There are, of course, those who are delighted with the results. Equally, there are many who say otherwise.

There is no question that they can achieve substantial volumes. But at what price? Shrinking margins, the accumulation of huge amounts of sales data (by the platforms) and more recently the ability to delist at whim, with little recourse. Eventually, if justified, the reseller will get the listing back, but it can take weeks, sometimes months.

The latter appears to happen when a consumer or other (sometimes ‘unknown‘) makes a complaint and the product is delisted without any discussion between reseller and platform. Amazon US states this only happens with one percent of their resellers, which equals 20,000 companies. I have personally spoken to Amazon UK resellers, who have experienced this within the last six months.

Amazon is especially slick, and differs from Ebay, in the way it analyses data. Because it has 90 distribution hubs (and growing) worldwide, it can choose what products it can source itself, cut out the reseller, benefiting

from resellers’ sales history on what sells, when and where. All having taken commission from the reseller for the privilege!

Retailing history tells us that few dominant retailers remain dominant.

By the very nature of their dominance they create gaps in the market and eventually entrepreneurs take interest.

We only have to look at the current state of Tesco, or back a little further to M&S. Both dominant players who appeared to rule the High Street are now no longer the top dogs.

There is already a monster on the online horizon in the form of Aliexpress, son of Alibaba, the Chinese equivalent of Amazon. Who knows what the consequences are? Many of the resellers on this platform are often Chinese factories. Should they make an impact it will have a profound effect on existing resellers in the UK and Europe.

Of the three following quotations, the first is unattributable, the other two are

by Peter Drucker, a twentieth century American businessman considered by many to be a founding father of modern business theory.

“You have no control over what the other guy does. You only have control over what you do.”

“The only thing we know about the future is that it will be different.”

“The entrepreneur always searches for a change, responds to it and exploits it as an opportunity.”

So what? The quotes are somewhat intertwined. Not knowing the future means that we all have to adapt to succeed and not succumb. The good entrepreneur will benefit from it. But then, it has ever been thus.

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Feature Halloween

Saturday night fever All eyes are on Saturday 31 October this year as retailers and suppliers gear up for a huge Halloween. With no work or school, there’s nothing to stop partygoers digging deep and going all out to make this Halloween one to remember

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t’s Saturday 31 In terms of scale, October 2015 and we’re not quite there the streets are yet in the UK and full of shambling Ireland, but we’re zombies, countless catching up fast. Just variants of like gathering around Frozen’s Anna and the bonfire on 5 Elsa, groups of bloodNovember, getting all spattered students gored up at the end of Charlotte Cox, Amscan October has become and adult witches and skeletons wrapped in an increasingly popular black. No, it’s not the way to banish the end of life as we know blues as the days grow it, it’s Halloween and everyone is off to shorter and chilly. a party.

For sheer universal appeal and An annual tradition across the enthusiasm, it’s hard to beat the annual pond, Halloween is celebrated with celebration of all things spooky. Amscan’s true to form ‘go big’ gusto in the US. Charlotte Cox says that this mass appeal is Throwing the most elaborate and key to its rocketing popularity. involved party is a point of personal “The occasion can be enjoyed by people pride and social standing, and when of all ages, including families, students and the leaves turn brown and begin to adults. There are also several opportunities fall, ghosts, ghouls and the iconic to celebrate Halloween that make it such a pumpkins seep into all aspects of popular occasion – from trick or treating, life. Those same falling leaves that to decorating the workplace, to having an herald the spooky season need all-out Halloween party.” cleaning up after all, so into orange This year, the stars have aligned for a pumpkin-print bin liners they go spectacular few days of parties and fun for – the perfect way to get into the all – and good trading for party retailers spirit. everywhere.

The occasion can be enjoyed by people of all ages, including families, students and adults

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Halloween

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Feature

Halloween being on a Saturday this year means more celebrations as people know they can let loose

Emma Angel, Angels Fancy Dress

Much has been made of Halloween falling on a Saturday this year, and with no work commitments, early morning wakeups, school runs or any of the other trappings of weekday life to stand in partygoers’ way, Angels’ Director, Emma Angel, believes there will be more parties than ever. “Halloween being on a Saturday this year means more celebrations as people know they can let loose, either at private parties or organised public events, without having to worry about work the next day.”

Couple this with an improved economy and noticeable growth in consumer confidence, and everything points to strong sales across the board for retailers.

With costumes, make-up, home décor, games, accessories, novelties, and much more, there are plenty of opportunities for consumers to dig deep and make it a weekend to remember.

Roy Gibbard is expecting big things this year and tells Party Party that he and the team at Izzys Party Shop in West Sussex have been preparing since last year. “Planning wise, we started almost as we were packing away the Halloween decorations in-store last November,” he says.

“Halloween has been growing exponentially over the past five or so years, and we’ve really noticed a big difference in the amount of people putting in a lot of effort with their outfit, buying more costumes, accessories and decorations. I’m optimistic this trend will continue. If it falls on the wrong day, perhaps somewhere in the middle, of the week, it could slow down a little. But that’s not something we have to contend with this year.”

Fran Gore, Owner of Fancy Dress Fanatics in Bristol, is getting things in order for her third Halloween. Fran temporarily transforms most of Fancy Dress Fanatics into a dedicated Halloween fancy dress shop each year, and thinks she’s nailed her product offering for 2015.

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“I’m ordering a lot of extra product in for Halloween, but I’m ordering differently to before. I haven’t had the balance completely right over the past couple of years,” she says. “A lot of students from the local universities visit around Halloween and they want something that’s cost effective but still makes an impact. This year I’m mostly ordering in accessories because they tick those boxes.”

To ensure retailers have everything they need to offer their customers the best Halloween party products later this year, suppliers are pulling out all the stops.

Sales and Marketing Director, Sergio Battaner, says that Palmer Agencies’ offering is its most expansive yet.

“We have a huge selection of products on offer for Halloween this year. We have everything covered from full costumes to accessories and home décor, and even a range of fantastic pumpkin carving sets, which I love. They’re a brilliant way for retailers to pick up some extra impulse purchases, and it’s a great activity for families to spend some time together and get creative.”

Amscan has also extended its Halloween collection this year to add even more diversity to its costumes, balloons and partyware, and introduced a whole new range of wearable accessories.

Charlotte says: “We do have high expectations for the category this year as we have seen sales spike in recent years when Halloween has landed on a Saturday. To reflect this we have added a great variety of exciting new ranges across the party, balloons and costume categories to suit all tastes.

“From the classic characters such as witches and devils, to the trendy Day of the Dead theme and new family friendly designs, Amscan have all of the key party themes covered that retailers’ customers will love.”

You’ll find a selection of some of the most exciting product out there over the next few pages, and retailers should finalise orders now to ensure on-

Halloween trends 2015 Charlotte Cox, Amscan: The Day of the Dead theme is set to be major again this year. Our new Witches’ Crew family range is a fun and friendly ensemble for all the family, incorporating key Halloween colours and cute and contemporary designs.

Create an alarming scene of a zombie invasion with our bloodcurdling collection of decorations, including a ‘dead scary’ fabric doorway curtain.

Emma Angel, Angels Fancy Dress: Day of the Dead will be one of the strongest themes this Halloween as it is growing every year and is quite a fashionable choice, allowing party goers to get creative face paint wise. Expect classics like gore and zombies to be really popular too, as these themes get bigger and bigger every year.

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Feature Halloween

Acting up Acting the Party 01476 333 043 www.actingtheparty.co.uk Acting the Party is a party pack with a punch. Inside each pack is a big, two-hour birthday party that enables parents to host a children’s party at home. Acting the Party offers true party entertainment with an audio production in each pack that leads children through a fantasy play in which they become characters. As they progress through the story they will come across mysteries to solve in the form of puzzles and party games. The parties allow parents to be virtually ‘hands-free’ for the entire time.

Spooky Spectacular creates fun and excitement for a birthday party treat.

With eight ghostly characters it would also be a fabulous Halloween party, especially to set the scene before trekking out to trick or treat. It comes in two formats: a CD with ready-printed accessories, or on a USB memory stick containing MP3 files and PDFs for parents to print themselves. It’s ideal for larger parties (multiples of 8), for children ages six to nine years.

One stop spooky shop!

Amscan 01908 288500 www.amscan.co.uk Amscan offers everything your customers will need to create a hauntingly good Halloween party setting - from the decorations, to trick or treat accessories, tableware, costumes, balloons and more - making it a ‘One Stop Party Shop’ for Halloween. This year it has a particularly exciting extended collection of Halloween costumes, plus a spooktacular new variety of wearable accessories.

Exciting new ranges include a collection of Day of the Dead inspired costumes, wearables, partyware and balloons. The designs feature sugar skull patterns, contrasting black and white with vibrant colours and details to create a stylish and well-coordinated Halloween party theme.

Ideal for families, Amscan has some new spooky yet fun party ranges including Friendly Mummy and Witches Crew tableware. At the other end of the scale the new Sinister Surgery collection oozes with guts and gore inspired decorations. From severed body parts to blood splattered door signs, this range is perfect for adult parties. And for those after something a bit more sophisticated, Amscan has a striking variety of orange and black tableware, decorations and balloons, which can be combined with new spandex Party Suits to complete the colour scheme.

With Halloween landing on a Saturday this year children will have the chance to trick or treat throughout the day, so be sure to stock up on bags and buckets that can be filled with treats! Fun favours such as Amscan’s creepy crawly toys, bouncy eyeballs and pumpkin pencils make a great alternative to sweets.

View Amscan’s complete Halloween collection online.

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CARNIVAL, PARTY & HALLOWEEN New Catalogue Out Now

+44 28 9064 7119

+44 28 9064 5655 @palmeragencies

sales@palmeragencies.com palmeragencies.com

Feature Halloween

Tats gruesome!

Freaky families

Tinsley Transfers

InCharacter

0845 180 6545

distribution@angels.uk.com

distribution@angels.uk.com

0845 180 6545

www.angelsdistribution.co.uk

www.angelsdistribution.co.uk

Tinsley Transfers’ range of Hollywood film-quality 3D FX transfers is in stock now. With terrifying small designs including Vampire Bites, Cutter and Capped, to name a few, as well as horrific medium-sized transfers including Cut Throat, Smiley and Vampire Brow, these gruesome lesions are sure to add some horror to any Halloween costume. All transfers are simply applied with water, with no need for latex or glue, making them an excellent and easy-touse choice for beginners and make-up experts alike.

The range has also been expanded in 2015 to include the following series of transfers.

The Zombie Series is a new range of 11 ghastly designs including Zombie Bite and Zombie Running Dead, to be applied with water only. There’s also Zombie Blood. With a wealth of TV shows revolving around the undead, the new zombie Tinsley range should be a success too - the ease of application makes it an easy option for Walking Dead wannabes.

Trauma Series is the new Tattoo FX range created by genuine Hollywood make-up artists.

These tattoos are extremely realistic and include Mauled, Diseased, Possessed and many more.

All new for 2015, Big Mouth Tattoos includes six designs 5” wide and 11.5” tall, with looks including Cheshire and Evil Grin.

Tattoo FX Face Tattoos are 8.5” wide and 9.5” tall and cover the entire face. There are six existing lines and three brand new designs: Carnivale Face, Cyborg Face and Clown Face.

There are also extra-large tattoos and costume kits, which are different sizes and styles, and include Pirate, Body Bands and Day of the Dead.

The blood range now includes bright red, red drying, dark red scabs and dark red gel, and the aforementioned Zombie blood.

Why not try out a tower in your store? The 3D FX Transfers Zombie Series Tower, 3D FX Transfers Tower, and Tattoo Tower FX look great and the product is sure to be a hit this Halloween.

This Halloween, InCharacter has something for the whole family.

Choose from the ghoulish Spiritless Cheerleader or Dead Zone Zombie, to anything from the adorable baby and toddler ranges, including Count Cutie and, brand new for 2015, Mini Meow, Mummy, Pumpkin Patch Princess and Witch and Famous. These high-quality costumes feature non-slip pads on the feet, as well as poppers to allow for easy nappy changes.

For older kids, InCharacter offers a great selection of costumes for tweens and teens, including Vampiress, Voodoo Vixen and Delinquent Devil, as well as suitably gruesome options for the boys such as Dr. N. Sane, MD. and Werewolf.

InCharacter’s adult costumes range from the sexy Midnight Vampiress and Pretty Pirate, to the gruesome GOREmet Chef and OktoberFEAST. Options for couples include Bloodless Bride and Gruesome Groom, and fuller figured party-goers will love the Fitting Characters collection, which offers customers an exceptional range of highquality costumes including Midnight Vampire and Vampiress.

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Looking hot, dog!

Rasta Imposta 0845 180 6545 distribution@angels. uk.com www.angelsdistribution. co.uk Rasta Imposta’s Halloween range includes the Zombie Banana, Zombie Penguin and Zombie Hot Dog, which all offer a ghoulish twist on our top sellers. These lightweight foam costumes are designed to fit most sizes and offer a simple but effective costume choice for men and women alike. For something a little more traditional, try Rasta Imposta’s popular Pumpkin – a charming cut-out suit with a matching stalk-hat.

Halloween

Clowning around

Doll-ightful!

Fun Shack

Leg Avenue

0113 2001050

00 31 24 240 3444

www.fun-shack.com

www.legavenueeurope.com

As the biggest event in the party calendar, Halloween should be set to be bigger than ever before falling on Saturday as it gives double - even triple - the opportunity for parties and events to be held on the Friday, Saturday or even Sunday of the Halloween weekend.

At Fun Shack the Halloween offering is bigger and better than ever before with orders from customers already having flown through the door and many more still coming in. As always the company has listened to feedback from its customers to create a more unique offering of Halloween costumes to cover all themes from traditional and sexy to sexy and scary, and not forgetting gore and humour.

Fun Shack has a wide range of innovative and quality adult Halloween costumes at affordable prices. There’s something to suit everyone on a variety of different budgets.

Already proving to be best sellers so far are the Wind Up & Deadly Doll, Zombie Factory Worker, Scary Rag Doll and Creepy Clown.

For 2015 Fun Shack has also launched a range of children’s’ Halloween costumes such as Scary Gingerbread Man and Short Black Corpse Bride, which are already proving to be popular, plus Scary Pumpkin and Scary Rag Doll girl.

There are four new styles in Leg Avenue’s upcoming collection. The company’s interpretation of dolls has been received well at past trade shows, and the styles are already popular among retailers, stylists, and photographers.

The new Doll styles are a good representation of Leg Avenue’s identity: it’s different, authentic, and unique. And of course, with Leg Avenue there is a good variety of styles and a good amount of perfect detailing. One of the great details is the silver, wind-up turn key on the back of the Wind-Me-Up Dolly costume - it’s a true eye catcher.

One person wearing this style is already a showstopper, but a group wearing multiple together makes a fun yet scary jaw dropper. These dolls are the perfect solution for group costumes.

The Rag Doll is another fashionable look featuring a peplum babydoll dress with legging.

Not only is Leg Avenue the place to go for trending costumes, it’s also the place for fun accessories to complete any outfit.

This includes a dolly bob wig with optional ringlet clips, porcelain doll mask, and striped thigh highs to complete the outfit.

Feature

Trick or treat Neviti 0845 638 1358 www.neviti.com With Halloween landing on a Saturday this year Neviti expects to see an increase in family parties with both adults and children joining in with the celebrations. With this in mind, its Trick Or Treat collection is ideal for family gatherings, featuring friendly Halloween characters perfect for younger children to join in with the festivities. The collection includes all of the tableware essentials perfect for serving some ghoulish goodies and vibrant balloons and bunting ideal for decorating your party room. The collection also offers vibrant loot bags, which are perfect if kids are going trick-or-treating, and ideal for filling with gifts for party guests.

The gruesome Graveyard Gathering collection is also likely to be popular this year with adults and teens taking advantage of the Saturday as a perfect chance to have a party. This range offers some really different items, including bottle labels to jazz up party drinks with text such as Devil’s Brew and Bat’s Blood, and a creepy glass decoration in the shape of a hand – sure to give guests a fright as they are presented with their drink!

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Feature Halloween

Frightful fun Palmer Agencies 028 9064 7119 www.palmeragencies.com Palmer Agencies has expanded its Halloween range to include more options than ever, with a whole host of new costumes, décor, accessories and more. There’s a full range of high quality costumes, with cute and spooky dress up for kids, and scary, humorous outfits for adults. Consumers can complete their look with accessories and make-up in a variety of colours, plus vampire fang caps, fake blood, liquid latex and the hugely popular zipper kits.

For decorating parties and setting the scene, Palmer has a huge selection of gruesome accessories and spectacular animated props which offer fantastic margins for retailers - including the impressive Angel of Death and Animated Witch. Pumpkin carving kits are Halloween favourites, and a great option for families that want to create their own decorations and spend time together.

There’s plenty more for Halloween from Palmer, so be sure to get in touch and order stock soon! Find out more on page 32.

Stylish scares

Unleash the zombies!

OppoSuits

www.qualatexeurope.com

01592 657120

Halloween is a growing season for Qualatex. Following good sales of Halloween balloons last year the company has introduced 11 new designs for 2015. Qualatex is expecting good Halloween season this year since it is falling on a Saturday. This gives everyone a good opportunity to gain more Halloween decor business, from retailers to night clubs, bars, hotels and other venues that will be organising Halloween dress up parties.

Looking at the trends, zombies is a growing trend thanks to the Walking Dead TV series and this year the Qualatex Zombie collection has an addition, the 36” R.I.P. Tombstone, which the company predicts will be a good seller. Monsters is another growing trend as a less scary option for the little ones. There are two new Monster Bash designs featuring on trend chevron print.

Qualatex has not only produced 11 new balloons for its customers to sell this Halloween season – it has also designed a Halloween Poster to help promote balloon decor and gain more business this Halloween. The “Have a Frightfully Good Halloween” Poster can be downloaded from the Autumn Business Booster on Qualatex.com and printed out for a professional marketing tool to attract more customers.

tradesales@opposuits.com www.opposuits.com The team at OppoSuits takes Halloween very seriously and will all be dressing up in styles from the new Halloween Collection. The OppoSuits programme now boasts four new entries for Halloween 2015. From the sophisticated Zombiac, to the blood and gore of Bloody Harry, the graveyard of Skulleton, and El Muerto Day of the Dead there is a suit for every mood.

All new Halloween stock arrives in August. Get your order in now and ring fence your stock before it sells out!

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Qualatex 01279 501090 / 0800 281215

Halloween

Feature

Bang on trend Smiffys

Spooktacular!

Widmann srl – Sancto International 01702 447676 sales@sanctointernational.co.uk www.sanctointernational.co.uk With Widmann srl and Sancto International you’ll find a range like no other to fulfil the weird and wonderful needs of your customers the Halloween. From the gory to the glam, the sexy to the scary, the vast and range of over 10,000 costumes, wigs and accessories they offer provides something for everyone to enjoy this Halloween.

Props and décor have been growing more and more spectacular each year and to keep up with this trend Widmann has added more new items to the already fantastic selection of talking, moving or light-up pieces to create a haunted atmosphere like no other.

0800 590599 sales@smiffys.com www.smiffys.com Plenty of exciting new themes have emerged for Halloween 2015, and in response to this Smiffys has introduced new ranges and new lines.

Day of the Dead is a huge Halloween trend, and Smiffys has created costumes for adults and children alike. Promising great quality and attention to detail, and with various accessories and make-up kits to complete the look, this theme is sure to be a big hit with shoppers. The ladies Day Of The Dead Sugar Skull Costume features a dress with train, a lace up corset and eye mask and is sure to be a huge hit this Halloween season.

Further lines have been added to the popular Tomb of Doom range, offering something new and unique to the Halloween market against the backdrop of typical costumes. Zombies continue to perform extremely well, both in the adult and children’s markets, and this has been reflected in the new additions to Smiffys’ 2015 Halloween collection.

What’s more, with zombie events becoming popular yearround, the market is experiencing a demand for zombie themed and horror products outside of the typical Halloween promotional period. Retailers should stock up on a range of zombie essentials such as fake blood and make up kits too in preparation for the wealth of events which take place year round. Find out more on page 18.

www.partypartymag.co.uk

29 7

Feature Halloween

Dead good for business Star Cut-Outs 0161 3445839 www.starcutouts.com Will you be Walking Dead into great sales for Halloween this year?

By the time Halloween has come, the nights have drawn in and the cold is on its way, so there is no better time to celebrate and party with spooky fiends and family! Star Cut-outs has just the thing with its licensed range of Walking Dead masks and standees, which are ideal to dress any themed party setting, and send a chill down the spine of party guests. Fans can choose from a number of favourite characters or zombies from the show for a party that is hard to forget.

There is no trick to treating the children this Halloween. Star Cut-Outs has it covered with Disney Halloween masks, including Mickey Vampire, Minnie Witch, Donald Wizard, Ursula, Wicked Witch and Wicked Queen. These family favourites with a twist are available as a party six-pack.

For the finishing touches to dress the venue and make the party suitably spooky, Star Cut-Outs has a great range of Haunted house cut-outs. And while hosts are entertaining their spooks and spectres, they can give their party the wow factor and provide the perfect photo opportunity with the fantastic Zombie and Skeleton Stand-ins.

Monster bash Unique Party 01724 281113 www.uniqueparty.co.uk Unique Party’s fantastic new Halloween ensembles serve up Halloween fun on scary plates and a hauntingly good selection of party accessories.

With spooky Photo Booth Props, Spiral Hanging Ghost decorations and Spider Webs, there’s something for everyone.

The full Halloween range from Unique includes window clings, cut-outs, window silhouettes, garland and door posters, accessories, decorations, trick-or-treat loot bags, balloons, banners, favours, piñatas, and much more.

Halloween Items will ship in August.

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NO M IMU N I R M DE OR

Dress Up America is proud to be an independent wholesale company featuring a beautiful collection of superb quality Halloween and year-round costumes, fancy dress costumes, wigs, exciting accessories in all sizes ranging from infants, boys, girls, teens, men and women.

0203 667 2721 www.dressupamerica.co.uk co.u uk sales@dressupamerica.co.uk

Interview Palmer

Are you being served?

Service, party and Halloween are three words that have come to define Palmer Agencies. Party Party spoke to Sales and Marketing Director, Sergio Battaner, to find out about the company’s relationship with retailers and how its extensive range can help them capitalise on the season of scares this October

W

ith nearly 50 years’ trading under its belt, party and Halloween specialist Palmer Agencies knows a thing or two about high-quality product.

From everyday celebration staples – like masks, decorations, novelties, costumes and accessories – to specialist seasonal ranges for the Halloween, Christmas and St Patrick’s Day crowds, retailers are guaranteed to find something from the vast portfolio.

Its extensive import and distribution network brings exciting new product to party and gift retailers each year, and with a team of experienced agents on the roads across the UK and Ireland, the opportunity to see and feel the products up close is never far from hand.

But it isn’t just high-quality, unique products that keep Palmers’ customers coming back time and time again, it’s the company’s sterling service. At Palmer, the customer really does come first. Its commitment to customer service is at the heart of everything it does, and this philosophy drives the business.

“We have this word cloud that really illustrates what our customers associate us with,” says Segio Battaner,

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Partner and Sales and Marketing Director at the fastest growing season. Carnival is huge Palmer Agencies. “It collates all the words in in continental Europe, as we all know, but our customers’ correspondence with us and it’s nothing on Halloween in terms of growth displays those that crop up most frequently and potential.” the largest. We’re all about service, and sure Palmer’s association with Halloween enough the word service is massive, slap began back in the seventies, when the bang in the middle of our cloud alongside company began importing masks for the UK party and, of course, Halloween.” and Irish markets from French We’ve been Palmer has become company César. The masks passionate about proved so popular that Palmer known as something of a Halloween Halloween since became César’s distributor specialist – one of well before it for the whole of the UK and the first suppliers Ireland and the rest is history. became such a retailers turn to when Fast forward to 2015, with a they’re looking for phenomenon Saturday Halloween ahead of something spooky here - Sergio but cute for kids, us, and Palmer’s expectations Battaner off the wall for and passion for the annual adults, or a show event haven’t diminished. stopping decoration “This year’s Halloween is going to be complete with animatronics and massive; I think it’s going to be one of the lights. Sergio says there’s good biggest weekends in recent memory,” reason for this. says Sergio. “It is absolutely critical “We’ve been passionate about that retailers get their Halloween since well buying and product before it became such balance right this a phenomenon here. year if they want We’re not the newcomers to capitalise on in this sector, and we’ve been the occasion there right alongside Halloween as and make it’s grown and come into its own. some real It’s not the biggest season yet money. We’re – Christmas still trumps it in the Halloween terms of pure consumer specialist and spend – but it’s by far

“

”

Modern Halloween celebrations prioritise personalisation, unique dress-up and costumes and house parties. Here Sergio outlines just some of Palmer Agencies’ extensive range to help retailers meet customer demand and capitalise on the changing face of Halloween

have an incredible selection of quality products – not just the basics that everyone expects, but also the kind of products that are really going to give retailers the edge over multiples and supermarkets.

“Money is more freely available now than it has been in the last five or six years, and Halloween’s popularity means consumers are happy to spend more if they are getting superior quality and unique designs. They want something new, something better than their friends and something out of the ordinary.”

To that point, Sergio has identified three product categories that he believes will draw Halloween party-goers to retailers in their droves: costumes, make-up and home décor.

“People will be shopping ahead this year to ensure their Halloween celebrations are special,” Sergio explains. “That’s evidenced in what will be the biggest categories.

Consumers will want to look the part with the perfect costume, or grab a spooky make-up and latex option to customise their own look. More and more people are having Halloween

house parties as well, so home décor will be big as well. Whether it’s just a few cobwebs and plastic spiders or a full house makeover, decorations will be a big winner this year.”

With such a huge Halloween

Creepy but cute: kids’ costumes “Kids costumes are going to boom this year. It’s all about aspirations and imagination – kids want to become their character, not just look like it. A popular theme for boys is ninjas, and when they put their costumes on, they feel like they become a ninja. For girls, it’s all about looking cute and scary, in that order. Girly, pretty colours with Halloween details like skulls and stitches will be this year’s look.”

Face off: make-up and latex kits “Retailers can do really well with highquality, safety-tested make-up and latex kits this year. Offering that quality and peace of mind will be their trump card. Apart from the basics like white face paint, fang caps and blood, more elaborate latex kits and crazy colours will also be popular. Zombie make-up kits are very flexible and can work with lots of looks, and the Zipper kits have grown massively over the past couple of year. It’s a cost effective way of really making an impact.”

ahead, and so many products to offer, Palmer Agencies is gearing up for a big second half of 2015. If retailers are interested in ordering for Halloween, they can contact the sales team on 028 9064 7119 for more information on the whole range and to order. But be quick, Halloween is just around the corner!

Home, sweet moan: Home décor “Going out to pubs and clubs for Halloween is still popular, but more and more people are staying in and turning their own homes into spooky mansions for the evening. It’s not quite America level, but it’s getting there.

This offers lots of opportunity for home décor to sell well – everything from pumpkin carving kits, to spiders’ webs and larger plastic skeletons and gravestones. Animated props are also great, particular our new Animated Witch and Angel of Death. For a specialist party retailer they’re a very good way to make money and have good margins.”

www.partypartymag.co.uk

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Feature Risqué

Risqué business Sex sells, so it’s no wonder risqué continues to make its mark on the party landscape. But it’s not just looking and feeling good that drives this category, sometimes it’s all about pushing people’s buttons

N

ot every adult party has to involve white napkins, three courses and an indepth back-and-forth on the pedestrianisation of Norwich city centre. Often it’s more fun to take a risk – or more precisely a risqué – and be a little bit naughty, if only for the evening.

A growing and popular market in the party industry, risqué covers everything from sexy outfits to naughty and novelty costumes and caters to an every growing audience who like to let their hair all the way down.

On one end of the spectrum, you have a largely female customer base that wants to look and feel good while joining in with the party spirit. Leg Avenue’s Trudy Pijnacker says it’s all about being seen and standing out and it doesn’t have to involve elaborate preparation. “Some frisky cat ears, or a fluffy bunny tail will easily start any conversation,” she says.

For young adults in particular, risqué outfits can be a go-to look for all sorts of occasions. Hen and stag parties are obvious choices, along with 18th and 21st birthday parties. But Trudy says there are plenty of opportunities for these products to sell well

Dress to impress Risque outfits are perfect for: Hen and stag parties Halloween Festivals 18th and 21st Birthdays Summer garden parties

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throughout the summer months when the weather is good.

“They’re perfect for summer parties during holidays. Not only are risqué ranges popular for hen and stag parties, but also for festivals and gay prides. We also see a growth in personalised risqué costumes, with people building their own costumes with accessories,” Trudy explains. “Young adults love to dress up and be seen at parties. Why not, for instance, walk around the festival ground with some fun bunny ears, or even a nurse costume? I’m sure there are lots of people in need of a nurse at festivals!”

But it’s not just sexy appeal and rising temperatures that sells in the risqué market. Comedy plays a big part in all party categories and risqué is no exception. Pushing the buttons of fellow partygoers can be a lot of fun and gets consumers buying – the more outrageous the better.

Angels’ range of novelty costumes includes some hilariously ‘punny’ outfits, and Director, Emma Angel finds this is where the men like to get involved.

“The risqué market has become a lot more novelty based these days but it’s fair to say that stag dos are as naked as they have ever been! Mankinis are as in demand as ever, and products such as The Big Pink and Happy Halloweenie (Rasta Imposta’s most outrageous duo) are getting more and more popular with the stag market.

“We’re also seeing a renewed interest in the typical look of dressing the stag up as a woman or in a woman’s padded naked suit – Anita Waxin and Camille Toe costumes are very popular.”

This is a trend that Emma sees moving into the female market too, with traditionally male costumes being bought by more women than ever.

“In terms of the female

“

Some frisky cat ears, or a fluffy bunny tail will easily start any conversation – Trudy Pijnacker, Leg Avenue

market, we are finding that more and more women are buying novelty costumes that were previously aimed at male customers due to them being funnier and less ‘sexy’,” she explains.

So how do retailers make the most of risqué products?

Trudy says it’s all about knowing your customer and offering choice.

“I advise retailers, especially smaller retailers, to start conversations with their customers – listen to their feedback, and try to respond to this in marketing campaigns or sales.

What kind of party are they attending with the costume they’ve bought? It’s not a strict tool, but it’s a nice way to connect with customers. It will even increase customer satisfaction.

“Success lies in the inspiration retailers give their customers.

Think outside the box, and create inspirational cases for them to wear risqué outfits. Risqué accessories are an easy and fun addition.”

”

Feature Risqué

Flirty fun Amscan 01908 288500 www.amscan.co.uk Turn up the heat with Amscan’s cheeky collection of high quality costumes, ideal for hen parties and fancy dress celebrations! Following the popular naughty school girl trend, there is a mischievous new Nerdy & Flirty costume complete with corset top, tartan patterned skirt, long socks and coordinating hair bows.

Careers-related costumes are also a great choice to tempt admirers and Amscan’s new Sexy Nurse outfit makes a perfect choice! The racy red and white outfit includes corset, skirt gloves and headband, sure to get heads turning. For those wanting to make a subtle teasing statement Amscan also has a variety of wearable accessories including tights, tutus, lace gloves and more.

Tongue in cheek

Feline frisky

Rasta Imposta

Leg Avenue

0845 180 6545

00 31 24 240 3444

www.angelsdistribution.co.uk Rasta Imposta is the go-to option for naughty but fun costumes with a lighthearted edge. Tongue firmly in cheek options for 2015 include Mr. D, as well as the Middle Finger, Giant Boob with Squeaky

Nipple and Happy Halloweenie.

Other risqué favourites include Anita Waxin, Big Pink Costume and Wet T-Shirt Winner.

www.legavenueeurope.com Leg Avenue is well known for its translation of fashion trends into its costume collections. Leg Avenue’s collections contain lots of fashion elements such as peplum, high waist shorts or trousers, bralettes, and catsuits. The catsuits, fit perfectly in the risqué category, and can be daring, flattering, and even more seductive than short skirts or dresses.

Leg Avenue has catsuits for everyone’s desire – get the tough appearance of an easy rider, SWAT commander or the tempting appearance of a wicked kitty.

Easy Rider - this bad-ass rider costume is not for sweethearts.

Wicked Kitty - this kitty steals everyone’s heart with it’s tempting looks.

Deluxe SWAT Commander - this luxurious costume is one of Leg Avenue’s latest addition to its Deluxe costume range.

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THE WORD from

Better safe than sorry BAPIA CEO John Bowler chimes in on the important issue of safety testing and regulations and how retailers can best protect their customers and themselves

A

lmost daily I become more aware that we live in a very litigious society and therefore the associated risks that business owners run on a day-to-day basis are similarly increasing. Pretty much every day there will be a story somewhere of a company being sued or having legal action taken against them for something that they had never expected to happen or that they could not possibly have believed they would be held responsible for. I am not for one moment suggesting that business owners are less responsible, but quite simply that with the growth of business and increased public awareness of successful legal actions comes a greater need to be aware of the risks and to protect ourselves against them.

I am sure that most of you will have seen the stories in the media recently regarding the concerns over flammability of some fancy dress costumes, particularly those for children . The media interest is clearly as a result of the incident involving the daughter of Strictly’s Claudia Winkleman who was seriously injured in 2014 as a result of a fancy dress outfit catching fire, and I know that we all wish her well on her journey to recovery.

I believe it is clear that as an industry we all take our responsibilities very seriously in this respect. However, whilst the manufacturers clearly work hard and invest large sums of money to make sure that

“

their products are as safe as possible and meet all of the regulations in place, we still need to be vigilant and make sure that, as retailers, we are ensuring the safety of not only our clients and customers but also our own business. There are a number of things that can be done to minimize the risk and re-assure the customers: It is important to ensure that all goods comply with the relevant regulations.

I am sure that any good supplier will be happy to show you that their products are compliant. Be especially careful when purchasing from importers that you do not know as a recognized company within the industry, and take the time to ensure that their goods are compliant.

Whilst copies may have an attractive price attached to them they may also come with some very unattractive risks attached as well. There are many unlicensed copies out there and they may look similar to the genuine licensed product but you cannot be sure that they have undergone the same rigorous testing as the genuine article. Is it really worth the risk?

Ultimately you are the first line of contact should there be an unfortunate incident so

We still need to be vigilant and make sure that, as retailers, we are ensuring the safety of not only our clients and customers

”

it is critical that you protect yourself and your business.

While it is the flammability of dressing up costumes that are currently in the spotlight there are responsibilities and risks with pretty much everything and you need to make sure that you are aware of these and do everything possible to protect against them. Prevention is clearly the best course of action to take, but protection is also vitally important and a simple but effective way to do this is to ensure that you have adequate public and products liability insurance in place and it’s always comforting to customers if they can see a certificate displayed. Insurance is something that we often think we can do without, until the day comes when you need it and then it’s too late.

BAPIA offers Public, Products & employers Liability Insurance cover as a membership benefit.

Discounts on Business Insurance is also available to BAPIA members, for more details go to www.bapiaonline. com.

For more information on product safety take a look at www. tradingstandards.gov.uk

INFO For more information on BAPIA and the benefits of membership go to www.bapiaonline.com or contact John on info@bapiaonline.com

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Feature Weddings

The big day Traditionally considered the happiest day of a couples’ life, no expense is spared when it comes to modern day marriage. Weddings are the ultimate party and as we get deeper into peak wedding season there are lots of opportunities for retailers to offer their customers something special for there special day. Here are just a few of the best products out there.

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Two of hearts Qualatex 01279 501090/0800 281215 www.qualatexeurope.com Wedding is a big season for balloons and this year wedding décor gets a whole makeover with a new line of balloons from Qualatex. The new modern designs are perfect for an elegant black-tie affair, yet versatile enough to coordinate with almost any colour scheme.

The Entwined Hearts designs come in silver and gold and are available in two sizes, 18” and 36”. Coordinating latex balloons are also available in a variety of sizes and which helps create stunning wedding décor.

A favourite colour trend this year is the exciting combination of Strawberry Ice and Tangerine, and Qualatex offers a nice variety of Pinks and Oranges including the recent Coral addition to the Qualatex colour family.

Look out for the new course from Qualatex this autumn called Wedding Series 3 that will teach new exciting designs using the new products from the Qualatex 2015 Wedding Collection, and share tips on how best to approach a wedding fair.

Weddings Feature

Splash of colour Amscan 01908 288500 www.amscan.co.uk Amscan has launched stunning new range of colourcoordinated decorations, confetti and favour boxes for 2015 - perfect for wedding celebrations. Fluffy decorations and bunting are popular décor preferences, particularly using pastel colours and on-trend, shabby chic patterns. Adding a personal touch is proving a popular choice for wedding decorations, and Amscan’s dots and stripes pennant banners are ideal as customers can easily add their own special message.

Key colour themes include pale and bright pink, robin’s egg blue and lilac, which work on their own or mixed and matched with other shades and neutral colours. The new range of colour coordinated items can also be combined with Amscan’s solid colour tableware range.

The candy buffet theme is also a popular choice to create a spectacular display, and Amscan has a wide variety of

From Neviti with love Neviti 0845 638 1358 www.neviti.com With Love is the beautiful wedding collection from Neviti offering a wonderful selection of table accessories and decorations perfect for spring and summer weddings. The range features subtle pastel shades and stunning wedding motifs of delicate love hearts, fluttering butterflies, tranquil doves and bouquets of flowers, perfect for adding a romantic flourish to your wedding décor. The collection offers gorgeous items perfect for candy buffets, an increasingly popular wedding trend. Items include candy buffet bunting and pretty sweetie bags. Another really ontrend item is Neviti’s wedding wishes post box, available in both the With Love collection and the best selling Just My Type range. The post boxes offer an excellent alternative to a guest book. Neviti’s Just My Type range offers a more homemade feel with a brown paper style design and simple red love heart motif.

different shaped containers to display the candy in. In terms of balloon trends for weddings, floral designs add an elegant touch, in line with the vintage trend to complement floral displays at the reception. Couple balloon options are also popular and Amscan has added some exciting new additions to its foil offering from Anagram. Designs include the cute contemporary SuperShape, Handsome Groom and Lovely Bride, as well as the wedding couple hearts.

Extra special day Unique Party 01724 281113 www.uniqueparty.co.uk Elegant and sophisticated, best describes Unique’s Victorian Wedding Style pattern. And Unique’s Bridal Tissue Decorations are perfect for adding that extra touch to the extra special day, available in a range of popular colours that will coordinate with all of its wedding patterns.

Unique also offers extras including Honeycomb Garlands, Wedding Bells, Honeycomb Bells, Wedding Bubbles and Wedding Cannons to ensure the day goes with a bang!

www.partypartymag.co.uk

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Balloon Recipe

Marvel-ous Spider-Man Check out this awesome Spider-Man column design, featuring some of Qualatex’s brand new licensed latex balloons. It’s great for party decor or as an impactful point-of-sale item in retail stores or window décor. This design is by Bob Armstrong, CBA

Ingredients: 1 x #41706 22” Marvel’s Ultimate Spider-Man Bubble 8 x #18671 11“ Marvel’s Ultimate Spider-Man (25ct) 3 x #18672 11” Marvel’s Ultimate Spider-Man Birthday (25ct) 16 x #43548 5“ Onyx Black (100ct) Extras needed: Sand weight Scrap 260Q’s

To order all the balloons used in this design and create it for yourself, contact Qualatex on 01279 501090 / 0800 281215 or visit www. qualatexeurope.com for more information.

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1

. Air inflate 4 x 11” Spider-Man Red latex balloons to 9” and make a fourballoon cluster.

Attach to sand weight.

Egg Blue (using the Raisin Twist attachment points created)

5

. Air-inflate 4 x 5” Onyx Black latex balloons to 4.5”, make a fourballoon cluster.

Ensure the cluster is firm and attach between the Red & Robins Egg Blue Spider-Man Birthday latex balloons.

2

. Air inflate 2 x 11” SpiderMan Yellow and 2 x Robins Egg Blue latex to 6.5” and make a fourballoon cluster.

Attach above the Red cluster.

3

. Take the 3 x 11” Spider-Man Birthday latex (one Red, one Yellow and one Robins Egg Blue) . Make a Raisin Twist at the top centre of each balloon, inflate to 9” and tie.

4

. Tie the Red into the Yellow and Blue cluster base, then attach the Robins Egg Blue firmly to the Red and attach the Yellow firmly to the Robins

6

. Repeat step 5 and attach between the Robins Egg Blue & Yellow Spider-Man Birthday latex balloons.

7

. Repeat again and attach to the top of the Yellow Spider-Man Birthday latex.

8

. Air-inflate 22” SpiderMan Bubble, cut off the ribbon, attach a scrap 260Q to the neck and attach to the top of the column firmly.

9

. Air-inflate 4 x 5” Onyx Black latex balloons to 3” and tie a scrap 260Q to the neck of each, make two loose Duplets then place between the gaps of the Yellow and Robins Egg Blue cluster base.

Balloon Recipe

Flower power This month, Sue Bowler, CBE has the perfect thing for the nice weather

1

. Inflate 5 x 11” SuperAgate Green balloons to 8” and make a 5-balloon cluster.

Position this at the base of your design.

2

. Inflate 5 x 5” Lime Green balloons to approx. 4” and make a 5-balloon cluster.

Position this on top of the first cluster.

3

. Fully inflate 4 x 160Q Lime Green balloons and tie into duplets. Spiral these around the pole to create the stem. If you are unsure how to create a spiral on a column, check out my blog for the technique. The Very Best Balloon Blog: Balloon Spiral Column Number design - Step-by-Step recipe. Secure the spiral approx. 10cm’s from the top of the pole.

4

. Inflate 5 x 12” Quick Link Big Polka Dot balloons to approx. 9” and make a 5-balloon cluster, this will make the main part of the ‘flower’.

to the other side of the ‘flower’. This should hold the 5-balloon clusters firmly in position.

7

. Inflate 2 of the 5” Orange to approx. 3.5” and secure these into the centre of the flower.

8

. At the end of each of the flower petals we can add a further 2 clusters to add extra detail. Each cluster is made up of the following: 1 x 4-balloon cluster using 5” yellow inflated to 3” and 1 x 4-balloon cluster using 5” yellow balloons inflated to 2”, and finally top each of these cluster with a single 5” Orange inflated to 1.5”. Make these up before adding them to the Quick Links as they will be easier to attach as a finished article.

6

. Secure one of the 5-balloon clusters of yellow to one side of the ‘flower’ and the other

5 x 11” Qualatex SuperAgate Green 5 x 5” Lime Green 4 x 160Q Lime Green 2 x 260Q Lime Green 5 x 12” Qualatex Quick Link Big Polka Dots 50 x 5” Yellow 7 x 5” Orange

Equipment Base & Pole Air-Inflator Hand Pump

9

. Secure each of the flower tips to the Quick Link balloons.

10

. Finally slide the flower into position on the top of the stem, secure using an un-inflated 260Q balloon.

5

. Inflate 5 x 5” Yellow balloons to approx. 4.5” and create a 5-balloon cluster and repeat to create a second 5-balloon cluster also in yellow.

Material List

11

. Add some ‘leaves’, these are made by simply inflating 260Q Lime Green balloons and tying end to end, gently bend each leaf so it has a little curve shape and secure into the base.

All balloons used in this design can be supplied

by Qualatex

Sue Bowler writes ‘The Very Best Balloon Blog’, to see more great design recipes and balloon related articles please visit www.theverybestballoonblog.blogspot.com

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Contact us for more information and availability on these new ofďŹ cial licensed designs!

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