-By John Lynds
Balloon City owner Christine Yannetty Bernstein with just some of the offerings her shop in Orient Heights has for the Valentine’s Day holiday.
Everyone sends flowers for Valentine’s Day so why not be different and send a balloon?
This is the question the owner of Balloon City on Bennington Street in Orient Heights is asking.
With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, Christine Yannetty Bernstein, who has successfully run the popular balloon and gift store in the Heights for the past 29 years, is gearing up for another busy holiday.
“In years past we would have a line out the door,” said Bernstein. “It’s not as hectic but still a very busy day.”
Bernstein would chalk up Valentine’s and New Year’s as her two busiest days for last minute balloon orders and handmade gift baskets from people looking for something a little different.
“We are busy all year with corporate events and subcontracting work,” said Bernstein. “And while there may be a lot of convenient places to get balloons or gift baskets like the supermarket, nothing compares to the quality we offer here at Balloon City.”
Bernstein, who stands by all the products she sells during busy holidays, said while some people might want to go for the traditional bouquet of flowers for Valentine’s, Balloon City’s offerings are just as good and most of the time last longer.
“We have balloons stuffed with teddy bears and other stuffed animals that last three to four weeks whereas some flowers could end up dying after a week,” she said. “Many people may not know but there are a lot of different balloon options from the stuffed balloons to the plastic balloons that outlast most flower arrangements by weeks.”
Bernstein, an East Boston native, said Balloon City and staff can accommodate most requests and even some special requests for Valentine’s.
“The staff here are great,” she said. “You can come in and if you don’t see something that suites you one of the staff can almost always whip something up.”
This is especially true for Balloon City’s gift baskets.
“The staff can put together baskets with a balloon, stuffed animal and chocolates that are perfect for Valentine’s,” she said.
Balloon City is located at 995 Bennington St and is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Or visit them at www.ballooncityboston.com for all you balloon needs.