Tip Top balloons in union street will have it’s last dance this Saturday as the long-time business closes for good.
Dave and Chrissy Stansbridge have called time on the party and have decided to enjoy a fruitful retirement, an overdue one at that. After trading in the town since 1999 the much-loved couple are deciding to call it a day.
CLASS Costumes was started way back in 1999 when Chrissy made her own hire costumes from home. The business expanded quickly and in 2000 they moved into a retail unit in The Mall, Bridge Street. During their time at The Mall the costume range increased dramatically and accessories were also stocked. After significant training, balloons and balloon décor was added. They would go to wherever the event was and dress the whole venue if required. Running out of space it was decided to move again in 2004 this time to the High Street with a name change to “Class Costumes Party Zone”. After several years, with constant rent and rate rises they closed and moved the décor side back home.
In 2010 after many requests for the popular duo to return they opened a balloon shop in Andover again. They took a small shop in Union Street and called it Tip Top Balloons, a few years later the bigger shop next door became available so they made the two shops into one and took on the Andover Thorntons franchise. Since then, they have become well known for their chocolates, balloons and event décor. They have worked with many big brand names over the years including Waitrose, Asda, Virgin, BARC and Tesco.
Dave told us “We will be sad to leave the town and close our business completely but being way past retirement age, it is the right thing for us to do. We would like to thank all our loyal customers for their support over the years. We shall, no doubt, bump into you in town for a chat. Chrissy and I also wish our fantastic team all the very best for the future”
The married couple have been a constant in the High Street with many growing up using their shop for their party needs, Dave and Chrissy’s adaptability saw them change their business for the customer. The beautiful décor they have provided over the years has been enjoyed by many, from weddings to proms their artistic and authentic style has brought many parties to life. Dave was always on hand in the shop and always loved helping people achieve their party dreams.
Dave and Chrissy were big supporters of Andover radio by supplying prizes for various competitions throughout the years.
Dave was a strong influence on the wedding fayres in the town that have been held at the Great Western and put so much time into this event to make it the place for all newlyweds to source their wedding plans.
Always a smiley and friendly couple you could be sure that you were looked after and buying from them ensured your support for a local business. Dave had a great team with him and the always helpful Heather was always at hand, and always created the perfect customer experience. They really knew what they were talking about and took the time to make sure they got to know you and this is evident with the amount of people who knew Dave, Chrissy and Heather.
The High Street may be losing a truly brilliant business but it’s time for Dave and Chrissy to bow out and enjoy their retirement.
Tip Top Balloons party may be over but their legacy will remain strong for a long time. We wish Dave and Chrissy all the best and now it’s time for them to enjoy their own party now. Happy Retirement!!
