How to Create a Party Candy Buffet in 5 Simple Steps

When you're planning the perfect celebration, presentation is key. Pairing the right activities with the best decorations makes your attendees excited to be there, and you want to make sure you have all of the party basics—food, games, and theme—covered. Sometimes, it’s hard to come up with fresh ideas to engage your guests, but we’ve got a simple solution: a do-it-yourself candy buffet. Following the next five steps, you’ll be able to make your own bar of sugary goodness that’ll be fit for any occasion.

1. Set a theme

Limiting your candy choices to a common theme makes it easier for your guests to pick and choose sweets (which also makes the whole process more fun). It makes the buffet itself look more put-together, and your guests will have a better idea of what they’re supposed to do.

photo credit: PetitPlat - Stephanie Kilgast

photo credit: Make It Mine Parties

2. Determine how much candy you need

If you have a large party, you’re obviously going to need a lot more candy, as well as more room for guests at the bar itself. As a rule of thumb, purchase three of each candy for every guest.

3. Decide on a location for the bar

photo credit: Corey Ann

Now that you know how much candy your party might require (and thus how big your table will be), you can figure out where to place your treat buffet. Make sure it’s easily accessible by guests.

4. Provide instructions

photo credit: Anders Ruff Custom Designs

If your candy buffet includes any dessert decorating (maybe you want to add in a cupcake frosting section, or you’d like people to build their own candy snowman), including adequate directions and labels is important. You don’t want the activity to be too confusing. Let your guests know which candies are which, and leave tips and tricks for using the candy bar on the table.

5. Set up your bar