When Party City closed its doors on Northwest Tanasbourne Drive near 185th Avenue last November, the news took Eric Brandt entirely by surprise.

The 33-year-old, having worked at the party supply store for three-and-a-half years, quickly decided to open his own shop: He had the relationships, knew the inventory, and saw a need to serve the community.

In his estimation, the old store was a financial success but could have been better managed. "I learned kind of what not to do for a business."

Still, he'd never run his own operation. So he teamed up with his long-time friend, Josh Blair, 33, to make

happen.

Both are Washington County natives; Brandt attended Glencoe High School, Blair graduated from Westview High School.They took out a $180,000 loan to start The Party Spot, leaning on Las Vegas-based Party Store Developers for business advice.

He also hired five former Party City co-workers. It was a no-brainer, he said.

"I knew they were good and quality people and a lot of them had trouble finding work."

The Party Spot opened in late May and is already drawing in familiar faces.

Shoppers will find an array of birthday supplies for any celebration, tableware, decorations, wrapping paper and balloons.

The store, at

, is open Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturdays 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Sundays 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

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