" Candy is dandy."
Do you have a "sweet tooth" that craves to be satisfied? How about a fondness for candies and delicious treats that transform you back to childhood days and cherished memories?
Or perhaps you have an upcoming event that you would like to impress your guests with a little fun, flair and fabulous-ness.
The ticket? Add a Candy Buffet to the menu (also called a Candy Bar.)
Before we explore more about what they are, here are 4 main reasons you'll want to plan for one at your next event.
- Candy Buffets tend to be popular with guests because they appeal to all the senses. Giving you more bang for your buck.
- Candy Buffets extend your dessert menu options.
- Candy Buffets help create a sense of nostalgia.
- Candy Buffets are relatively inexpensive and easy to set up.
WHAT IS A CANDY BUFFET?
As the name implies, a Candy Buffet is a table set up with an assortment of palate-pleasing goodies from which your guests can pick and choose to enjoy at the affair or take home in the form of gift bags.
Think of it like you would a dessert table.
Some time ago, I attended a birthday party for the wife of a friend of mine who had one. It was a big hit with the attendees, and also sparked a few conversations about our respective favorites.
THE DEVIL IS IN THE DETAILS...
In planning the best possible buffet experience, here are some things you'll want to consider:
- THE TYPE OF AFFAIR
- THE NUMBER OF GUESTS
- THE TIME OF YEAR
- YOUR BUDGET
- VISUAL APPEAL AND VARIETY
Bulkcandystore.com offers the following advice: "Candy buffets come in all shapes and sizes, the number of jars used can vary greatly. Most people use between eight and 12. With that many jars, it’s important to consider how much each is going to cost. If you just hit up the big craft stores, some glass jars can go for $30-$40. That’s a bit much for most people, especially if you’re buying them for a one-time event. If you’re planning far enough ahead and have some time, you can save yourself money by looking a few other places. If you’re really far ahead, try going to a few garage sales or flea markets. We know a few customers who have gotten great deals there. Thrift stores also often have a few jars lying around the store. Another place to look is discount stores like Home Goods and Big Lots; you might find some good deals there. If you really want that jar from the big chain store, be sure to go out and find your 40% off coupon!"
- YOUR FAVE TREATS
This is no time to be calorie counting. Indulge. For example, my favorites are Reeses Peanut Butter Cups, flavored popcorn, and Tootsie Rolls. What's yours?
ADDITIONAL TIPS AND STRATEGIES FOR OPTIMAL SUCCESS
THE SPRUCE.COM OFFERS THE FOLLOWING MONEY SAVING TIPS FOR YOUR NEXT CANDY BUFFET (PARTICULARLY FOR WEDDINGS):
- Pair items with containers by size. Buy less expensive candy to fill larger jars, and more expensive candies in smaller jars so they fill up faster.
- Use items other than candy. Consider anything from marshmallows, pretzels, nuts, cookies, and more to add to your display.
- Order in Bulk. Check out the list of recommended suppliers for bulk candy that we shared a few slides back.
- Buy after holidays. You can get really great deals on candy right after the big holidays like Valentine’s, Easter, and Halloween.
- Shop savvy. Order online and use Ebates to earn cash back on the items you purchase.
- Choose smaller favor vessels. If you want to reduce the amount of candy you need, offer less candy per guest. Chose smaller bags or boxes to discourage overloading.
CHICAGO-BASED CANDY BUFFET PROVIDERS
https://www.verysweetsoirees.com/
https://goodiesetc.com/chicago-candy-party-essentials/
Final Thought
Here's hoping that your next Candy Buffet enables you to create sweet memories with family and friends.