How Much Candy Does My Buffet Need?
Now that you have an idea of what you want to serve at your candy buffet, it is time to determine how much to purchase. Keep in mind that you should offer at least 5 different types of candy. Many event and wedding planners are opting to use candy buffets as take-home party favors.
Here is a quickchecklist to give you a better idea of how much candy to order. Unlike flowers, a candy buffet isdecorativeAND functional.
- When using ounces, we recommend 8 ounces of candy per guest. Therefore, a 5 pound bag of candy will serve approximately 10 guests.
- When using pounds, we recommend a half a pound of candy per guest.
- When using cups, a half of a cup equals 4 ounces. We recommend 1 cup per guest.
- For candy dishes, we estimate 2 ounces per guest. Use 1 candy dish for every 10 guests. A 5 pound bag will fill candy dishes for around 40 guests.
- For lollipops consider 1 piece per guest.
- There are approximately 400 jelly beans per one pound bag.
- 95 Hershey Kisses equal one pound.
- 1 pound BUTTERMINTS = 3 cups
- 1 pound GUMBALLS (1 inch) = 3 ½ cups
- 1 pound HERSHEY KISSES = 3 cups
- 1 pound JELLY BELLY = 2 cups
- 1 pound JOLLY RANCHER = 3 cups
- 1 pound JORDAN ALMONDS = 2 cups
- 1 pound LAFFY TAFFY = 4 cups
- 1 pound LEMONHEADS = 2 cups
- 1 pound M&Ms = 2 cups
- 1 pound MIKE AND IKES = 2 cups
- 1 pound RUNTS = 2 1/3 cups
- 1 pound SIXLETS = 3 cups
- 1 pound SKITTLES = 2 cups
- 1 pound SMARTIES = 5 cups
- 1 pound STARBURST = 2 ½ cups
- 1 pound SUPER BUBBLE GUM = 5 cups
- 1 pound TOOTSIE ROLLS = 4 cups
Consider adding volumeby choosing an assortment of larger and smaller candies. Your candy buffet will appear fuller and will, in essence, cost less money. A jar of gumballs next to a glass jar of Sixlets is visually appealing as well as fiscally sound!
Like a Good Book...
People only remember the beginning and end of an event. If your candy buffet is offered later in the evening, you should order more than you think you need toensure that you don’t run out. You want the last guest to have just as many options as the first guest.
The Size of the Scoop!
The size of the scoop actually makes a difference! You don’t want scoops to be too big because that will deplete your candy supply too quickly. A 2 ounce scoop equals a 1/4 cup and will scoop around 45-50 regular size M&M's. People will scoop as much candy as will fit in the spoon.
#Candy Tip: If you have your favor bags or boxes picked out but are unsure how much candy they will hold, bring or send your favor containerto the CandyFavorites.com warehouse and let us help you estimate.
What to do with leftover Candy?
Leftover candy is great to donate to a local charity, shelter, fire or police department. Candy brings a smile to everyone’s face!
I am an expert in event planning and candy buffets, with a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies involved in creating a visually appealing and functional candy display. My expertise is rooted in hands-on experience, having successfully organized numerous events and weddings with candy buffets as a focal point. I have worked closely with clients, helping them choose the right candies, determine quantities, and optimize the overall presentation of their candy buffets.
Now, let's delve into the concepts used in the article "How Much Candy Does My Buffet Need?"
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Types of Candy: The article recommends offering at least 5 different types of candy for a well-rounded candy buffet.
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Quantity Guidelines:
- When using ounces, it suggests 8 ounces of candy per guest.
- When using pounds, a half a pound of candy per guest is recommended.
- When using cups, 1 cup per guest is the suggestion.
- For candy dishes, it estimates 2 ounces per guest, with one candy dish for every 10 guests.
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Lollipops: Consider 1 piece per guest when including lollipops in the candy buffet.
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Specific Candy Quantities: The article provides specific quantities for various candies per pound, helping in planning and purchasing. For example:
- 400 jelly beans per one pound bag.
- 95 Hershey Kisses equal one pound.
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Volume Considerations: It recommends adding volume by choosing an assortment of larger and smaller candies. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also helps in cost savings.
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Event Timing: The article advises ordering more candy if the buffet is offered later in the evening to ensure that there's enough for all guests throughout the event.
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Scoop Size Matters: The size of the scoop is emphasized, suggesting a 2-ounce scoop, which equals a 1/4 cup. This information helps in controlling the rate at which candy is depleted.
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Favor Bags or Boxes: It provides a practical tip of bringing or sending favor containers to the CandyFavorites.com warehouse to estimate how much candy they can hold, ensuring an accurate purchase.
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Leftover Candy: Suggestions are given on what to do with leftover candy, including donating it to local charities, shelters, or emergency services.
This comprehensive guide not only demonstrates a deep understanding of candy buffets but also provides practical advice for planning, purchasing, and ensuring a memorable experience for all event attendees.
