Just as with at any holiday party, Valentine's Day decorations set the mood. From simple confetti hearts to extravagant centerpieces and other decorations, the choices are wide open for your customers. That's why it's important to stock up on a wide variety of items from novelty and craft items to party supplies.

Consumers show the love by spending more than $13 billion each year on Valentine's Day. If you don't supply the items they want, they'll surely buy from somewhere else. Cards, candy, flowers—all things red or pink—take over the stores in the weeks leading up to the big day, pretty much as soon as Christmas is over. Be prepared early.

There are many facets to planning the perfect Valentine's Day party, but you can help your customers by taking the guesswork out of supplies for Valentine's Day. Check out this checklist information about Valentine's Day supplies:

1. Your display should feature eye-catching signage advertising Valentine's Day party supplies and directing customers to the appropriate section of your store.

2. Don't be afraid to add to the display with holiday props along with Valentine's Day supplies that are for sale.

3. Try to keep similar items together in your display such as Valentine's Day party favors in one area with tableware in another area.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Include novelty items in your Valentine's Day supply

From the wild to the wacky, customers will be looking for variants on the old pink heart routine when it comes to purchasing their Valentine's Day party supplies. Fun items like a red rubber duck with devil horns or other off-the-wall items will be marketable to your customers.

I recommend: From Valentine rubber ducks to plastic heart trays, find some party favors and novelty items from Century Novelty Company. Or check out Oriental Trading Company's stock of novelties and toys.

Remember the essential Valentine's Day party supplies

For your customers planning a party, food is definitely going to be a major part of their plans. Don't forget to offer the themed tableware: napkins, silverware, drinking glasses as well as table coverings.

I recommend: Windy City Novelties offers a variety of Valentine's Day themed party supplies including balloons and tableware. Other decorations and tableware can be purchased at 411Unlimited.

Consider supplying craft kits with homemade Valentine decorations

Some customers may want to create their own Valentines. Offer them crafting kits and other supplies to help them get the job of putting their own special touch on the holiday finished.

I recommend: CraftKitsAndSupplies.com offers a variety of do-it-yourself kits for Valentine's Day craft projects. HearthSong offers a kit to make a Valentine lace card among other craft ideas.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Start planning for your holiday display about 5 weeks ahead or more if possible. That will allow plenty of time for online shopping and delivery from Valentines wholesalers.