Throwing anything from an elegant dinner party to a lively kid’s bash is made easy in Paris courtesy of the great number of caterers, party accessory boutiques and the odd party-hire company operating within the city. Party accessory specialist, Tutti Frutti, has multiple outlets around Paris selling everything from streamers, garlands and balloons to themed table dressings and novelty objects for birthdays, Christmas and everything in between. The company will also offer advice on ideas for decoration and party-favours. Internet-based company, Fetes-par-Fetes (www.fetes-par-fetes.com), offers a similarly expansive selection for online purchase and delivery; buy over-sized clown feet or tableware for Halloween and St Patrick’s Day.

Supermarkets will also stock the basics in paper or plastic crockery, balloons, streamers and toy whistles. For larger celebrations Options, a party rental company based outside Paris, hires out elegant table settings and furnishings, while Stella Production provides hire of musicians and singers spanning the spectrum from swing to soul. A little more flashy is La Boutique des Produits Ferrari, a Paris-based business offering Ferraris for hire with drivers for special occasions. For the kids, Gymboree in the 15th arrondissement offers a birthday party service for children from six months to 6 years while Cinescene performs circus numbers and children’s entertainment at private parties.

Catering is also a cinch, with a range of choices depending on budget. At the top end of the scale is La Traiteur du Marais specialising in high class and VIP events while Sushi on the Skin provides catering services for private yachts, jets and home evening meals. A little more low-key is Thanksgiving, an American speciality store great for southern BBQ and Thanksgiving dinners. Galeries Lafayette and La Grande Epicerie at Le Bon Marché are also good sources for general catering needs. For special occasion cakes try your local boulangerie, the vast majority of which take advance orders.