A NEW Plymouth business has to be the only one in the city that doesn't mind rampant inflation – because it sells balloons.

Nicki Jenkin and Ross Smith started Occasions Balloons last year, but have now opened a shop in Langham Place, St Judes.

The business provides balloon decorations for events such as parties, weddings and corporate shindigs.

Its decorations include balloon bouquets, arches, columns and table displays.

Ms Jenkin said she and Mr Smith got the idea for the firm when their son Alfie, now aged one, was born.

"We wanted to get some balloons for a party but they were too expensive, so we thought of doing it ourselves," she said.

The pair enrolled on balloon courses and soon started the business.

"It's gone really well," Ms Jenkin said. "But it took over the house so we decided to look around for a shop."

Now Occasions Balloons is looking forward to a successful 2012, with 17 weddings and parties already having booked displays.

"Every day we have something going on," said Ms Jenkin.