Bridge Center, 2450 17th Ave, Ste 200, Santa Cruz, CA 95062, US

Woodworm is a party waiting to happen and the theme could be anything, from a Disney princess birthday to a ribald bachelorette bash. There are paper plates in every color and a wall of balloons nearly 40 feet long. For small children, there's a play area near the balloon section so they can be happily distracted while their parents shop. In the fall, the bulk of the store is turned over to costumes, from ghoulish to girlish. There are wigs in every style, whether you're looking for a 70s mullet or a windblown surfer dude. Six dressing rooms provide customers a chance to try on costumes and make sure the disguise is fitting. This is highly recommended, since costumes are non-returnable. Cake decorating classes for kids and adults are offered year round. Check the store website for the up-to-date schedule, as well as a price list for balloons, banners and partyware. The location was a party store long before it became Woodworm two years ago, and the current owners aren't new to the party either. They've lived in the area and run party stores for several generations, so they know how to run a fun shop. As one employee says, "How can you not be happy walking in here?"

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