Perched alongside the Métropolitaine (Autoroute 40), Ivan & Co’s castle-like facade — complete with gargoyles, stained glass, and turrets — always demands a double take from passing motorists.

Inside, it’s not a spooky lair, but a treasure trove for event planners and DIY enthusiasts alike. From disco balls and fog machines to stage projectors and confetti cannons, Ivan & Co has been Montreal’s go-to spot for sound and lighting rentals since 1969.

Founder Ivan Dow, who launched the business as a teenager, is as vibrant as his shop. He’s still a hands-on tinkerer, collector, and Halloween fanatic, hosting an elaborate haunted house in Dorval each year to raise funds for Jeunesse au Soleil. His towering home setup includes dragons, labyrinths, and a mini castle, fuelled by his enduring love for all things creative and fun.