Whether you’re going to a birthday party, a graduation, or any other celebratory event, we can all agree that balloons make great decorations. Balloons are a fun and unique way to capture the eyes of your guests, and to help create an exciting and memorable atmosphere.
Trader Joe’s is a very popular grocery store in the states, and many may be wondering about all the products they sell. Does Trader Joe’s sell balloons? Unfortunately Trader Joe’s does not sell balloons. However, in the past, Trader Joe’s did used to hand out free balloons to kids in their stores.
In this article we will be taking a look at Trader Joe’s and the products they have to offer, party supplies and decorations that you can find in their stores, as well as some alternatives to balloons that you may be able to find at your local Trader Joe’s.
Introduction to Trader Joe’s Grocery Stores
Trader Joe’s is an American based grocery chain that sells unique products at low prices. They aren’t just your average grocery store like Albertsons or Stater Brothers. At Trader Joe’s you can expect a totally different shopping experience.
Trader Joe’s sells a wide variety of fresh meats, produce, breads, desserts, and entrees. The main difference is that everything is under the Trader Joe’s brand. Many of their entrees come ready to eat which means all you have to do is heat it up and serve.
I mostly like to shop at Trader Joe’s for my fresh fruits, vegetables, and their unique frozen and cold entrees. From Mandarin Chicken, to Chicken Tikka Masala, the possibilities are nearly endless when shopping at Trader Joe’s.
The variety of foods they have to offer will have you coming back week after week trying new items each and every time.
Party Supplies and Decorations at Trader Joe’s
If you are coming to Trader Joe’s in search of party supplies and party decorations, you may be surprised as they do not have much in terms of decor. You won’t be able to find your typical party decorations like streamers, balloons, banners, candles, or anything else related to your traditional party decorations.
However, if you looking to spice up your party with different types of foods and desserts, then Trader Joe’s will have you covered. Here’s a small list of food and dessert items that can help any party take it up a notch:
A Dozen Macarons varies – Macarons are a great way to decorate a party. Put them on a plate or a multi-tier platter and you will have an awesome center piece that pairs well with any dessert table.
Greeting Cards – Whether you are celebrating a birthday, graduation, or a holiday, you will be able to find a variety of greeting cards.
Cheese Party Tray – A party cheese tray goes great with family get togethers, barbecues, and even looks great on an appetizer/dessert table.
Scented Candles – Trader Joe’s has a wide array of scented candles. Place them around your party for an elegant look and an even better smell.
Wine, Liquor, and Beer – Trader Joe’s is well known for their huge wine selection, as well as their beer.
Alternatives to Balloons at Trader Joe’s
Flowers
Although you won’t be able to find balloons at your local Trader Joe’s, you will be able to find a few alternatives. One of the best alternatives to balloons is flowers.
Trader Joe’s has an awesome array of flowers. From Baby’s Breath and Chamomile, to Sunflowers and Tulips, there will be something to fancy the taste of just about anyone.
Food and Dessert
Another elegant way to decorate a party is with tables of foods and desserts. At Trader Joe’s you will find tons of unique baked items as well as appetizers that you won’t be able to find in any other store.
Some popular appetizers are:
Vegetable Samosas – These two-bite appetizers are have a crispy outside made of phyllo dough, with a soft and creamy inside. They are also triangle shaped which can help add an elegant touch to just about any platter.
Pastry Pups – Trader Joe’s takes the classic mini corn dog and recreates it to something new and different. These Parmesan pastry pups are an awesome finger food. They are mini hot dogs wrapped in a butter puff pastry and then sprinkled with Parmesan.
Bacon Wrapped Dates – When you combine sweet and salty, you get bacon wrapped dates. These unique dates are wrapped with bacon and stuffed with goat cheese to give a nice kick. These end up being on the sweeter side due to the natural sweetness from the dates.
Fried Olive Bites – Two types of olives are pitted and finely chopped and then mixed together to create a dough. They are then stuffed with cheese and batter, and are deep fried to perfection.
Hummus Dip with Pita Chips – The classic hummus dip with pita chips makes for one of the most delicious and healthy appetizers in place of regular chips and salsa. Add a bit of elegance with this combination to liven up your appetizer table.
Tips for Party Shopping at Trader Joe’s
When shopping at Trader Joe’s for a party, be sure to remember that they do not sell your typical party decor. It’s best to go to Trader Joe’s to find greeting cards, alcohol, desserts, flowers, baked goods, frozen treats, and appetizers.
Creating an appetizer table or desserts table using Trader Joe’s products is a great way to decorate an area or room for your party.
Placing flowers and candles as decoration is another way to make your party stand out, and Trader Joe’s has a wide variety of both of these.
Final Thoughts
Trader Joe’s does not sell balloons. However, they did hand out free balloons to kids back when their stores were first opened. As time passed, Trader Joe’s has since stopped this practice as they decided it was a good business move in terms of profit/loss as well as environmental health.
Don’t let a lack of balloons stop you from shopping at Trader Joe’s for your next party. You can instead purchase tons of different appetizers, desserts, flowers, candles, and many other items that can help you add a unique touch to your party.
