Creating A Wedding Candy Table: A Sweet Guide

A candy table is a whimsical addition to a wedding reception, offering guests a variety of treats to choose from. Planning a DIY candy bar is simple but does require some preparation to achieve a polished look. This includes deciding on a theme, choosing the right containers, and selecting candies that fit the colour scheme and the couple's unique tastes. The table should be set up in a space that is easily accessible to guests, with enough room for them to move around and fill their bags. A candy buffet attendant can also be assigned to ensure the table stays neat and well-stocked throughout the event.

Choosing a theme and colour scheme

For example, if the couple has a fun and whimsical side, a retro theme with gold decor could be a great option. This could include gold-wrapped candies, gold trays and metal boxes, and even custom cactus cupcakes. Another idea is to go for a rustic theme, with metal buckets or wicker baskets as containers, and a barrel or two of old-fashioned candy.

If the couple prefers elegance and simplicity, a neutral colour scheme with dried florals and simple desserts like cake, cookies, and bars could be a perfect choice. For a more glamorous feel, a glam-themed candy bar with mid-century modern vibes could be created, including candies with glitter accents or champagne-flavoured gummy bears.

The colour scheme can be integrated into the candy selection, table decor, and even the containers used to hold the candy. For instance, the candy can be chosen in two or three colours that match the wedding palette, or the couple can stick to the same type of colour, such as pastels, and buy candies in different colours within that range. The containers can also be chosen to match the colour scheme, with glass containers in various shapes and sizes, or trays and cake stands for a more elegant look.

The theme and colour scheme of the candy table should ultimately reflect the couple's tastes and personalities, creating a unique and memorable display for their guests to enjoy.

Selecting containers and decorations

Selecting the right containers and decorations for your wedding candy table is essential to creating a visually appealing display that ties in with your wedding theme and colour palette. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect containers and decorations:

Containers

When choosing containers for your candy table, consider the following:

• Material: Glass containers are a popular choice as they allow guests to see the colourful candies, adding to the overall decorative look of the display. Clear glass containers in various sizes and shapes with wide openings are ideal, allowing guests to easily access the candy.
• Variety: Opt for a variety of containers in different shapes and sizes to create a visually appealing display. Include some smaller bowls for bite-sized candies and a few larger containers for bigger treats.
• Opening: Choose containers with wide openings so guests can easily scoop out the candy. Containers with narrow necks might look interesting, but they are not practical.
• Lids: While lidded containers look nice and protect the candy, they can be cumbersome to remove and replace.
• Size: Ensure your containers are large enough to hold an ample supply of candy. Smaller containers that can be refilled throughout the night often look better than larger ones that may appear empty.

Decorations

To enhance the visual appeal of your candy table and tie it in with your wedding theme, consider the following decorations:

• Tablecloth: Use a tablecloth as a backdrop for the candy display. Opt for a colour or pattern that complements your wedding theme.
• Garlands: Drape garlands along the edge of the table or scatter confetti or other tabletop decorations.
• Backdrop: If your wedding is indoors, create a backdrop by hanging large pieces of fabric, gathered tulle, or burlap on the wall behind the candy table.
• Signs: Display signs near each bowl of candy to clear up any confusion about the contents and to inform guests of potential allergens. Simple cardboard tents or chalkboard-style labels work well.
• Flowers and Greenery: Add florals and greenery to your candy table to create a modern and elegant look. You can also incorporate florals by displaying doughnuts or cakes on mini white cake stands.
• Personal Touches: Include small, unique items that hold significance for you and your partner, such as seashells or figurines. You can also add a few photos around the table.
• Ribbons: Tie coloured ribbons around containers to match your wedding colour palette.
• Centrepieces: Use similar centrepieces from the guest tables on the candy buffet to tie the overall reception décor together.

Buying supplies and candy

When it comes to buying supplies and candy for your wedding candy table, there are a few key things to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to have a mix of sweet and savoury options, so be sure to include something salty like trail mix or nuts. You'll also want to have a variety of flavours and textures to accommodate different preferences.

Now, onto the supplies! Here's a list of what you'll need:

• Containers: Clear glass containers in different sizes and shapes will not only look great but also allow guests to easily access the candy. Save money by using any glass containers you already have, such as bowls, clean vases, mason jars, or large drinking glasses.
• Scoops, spoons, and tongs: Provide a variety of serving utensils to keep things clean and safe. Choose sizes that fit into the containers while allowing guests to easily retrieve the candy.
• Take-home containers: Some guests will want to take candy home, so provide cellophane bags or small decorative boxes. Attach a personal touch with a thank-you note.
• Signs: Label each bowl of candy to avoid confusion and help guests with food allergies or dietary restrictions. Simple cardboard tents or chalkboard-style labels work well.
• Decorations: Enhance the display with a tablecloth, garlands, confetti, or other tabletop decorations. Tie in your wedding colours or theme with ribbons, flowers, or centrepieces.

When buying candy, it's essential to choose colourful options that coordinate with your wedding design. Select two to three colours or stick to your wedding colour scheme. Offer a variety of flavours, textures, and types of candy to satisfy different tastes. Don't forget to include your favourites and those of your partner and wedding party for a personal touch.

If you're looking to save money, consider buying bulk candy from wholesale stores like Costco or BJ's. And don't forget to factor in the cost of jars, bags, scoops, and other supplies when creating your budget. Happy planning!

Setting up the table

Firstly, check your venue for space. You'll need a table, of course, but also enough room around it for your guests to access the candy buffet. A round table works well if guests will be approaching from all sides, while a rectangular table is better if you want to push the table against a wall. If you're short on space, consider using a compact table or a corner of a table. You can also add height by using jars or vessels on pedestals of different heights.

Next, buy your supplies. You'll need containers for the candy, such as clear glass bowls, vases, mason jars, or large drinking glasses. Choose an assortment of sizes and shapes with wide openings so guests can easily access the candy. You'll also need scoops, spoons, and tongs for serving, and take-home containers such as cellophane bags or small decorative boxes. Add a personal touch with a thank-you note attached to each. Don't forget to include signs, so guests know what they're choosing and can avoid any allergens.

When it comes to the candy itself, choose colourful options that coordinate with your wedding design. Provide about 1/4 to 1/2 pound of candy for each person. That's about 25 to 50 pounds for every 100 guests, 40 to 75 pounds for 150 guests, and 50 to 100 pounds for 200 guests. Offer a variety of options, including different flavours, textures, sizes, and types of candy. Include gluten-free, peanut-free, sugar-free, and vegan options, and clearly label them.

If you want to add decorations to your table, use a tablecloth as a backdrop, and add garlands, confetti, or other tabletop decorations. You could also add a backdrop of large pieces of fabric, gathered tulle, or burlap. Hang banners, string lights, flowers, or greenery, and include photos of the happy couple.

Before the wedding, store your candy in a cool, dry, dark location to keep it fresh. Chocolate can be stored in the refrigerator to prevent melting. On the day, set up the table with the decor, empty jars, and other containers to save time.

Finally, don't set up the candy bar too early. It's best to wait until dinner has started, so appoint a coordinator or helper to set out the candy, scoops, and bags at the right time.

Maintaining the table throughout the event

Maintaining a well-stocked and tidy candy table throughout your wedding event is essential for a positive guest experience. Here are some tips to ensure your candy table remains in good condition:

Firstly, ensure you have a dedicated attendant for the table. This person can be a staff member from the venue or caterer, or you could enlist a friend or relative. Their responsibilities include refilling candy containers when they get low, cleaning up any spills, ensuring guests use the provided scoops, removing empty containers from the table, and helping guests scoop candy if needed.

Next, consider the timing of when to open the candy table. If you make it available from the start of the event, you may find your supplies dwindle by the end. A more controlled approach is to open the table after dinner or towards the end of the reception. This way, you can maintain a steady supply of candy for your guests to enjoy.

Additionally, keep an eye on the amount of candy in each container. Smaller containers that an attendant can easily refill throughout the night often work better than large jars, which may look sparse unless they are kept well-stocked. Also, ensure the containers have wide openings so guests can scoop out the candy without fumbling.

Finally, be mindful of the placement of the table. Choose a location that is easily accessible yet out of the way, with enough space around it for a good traffic flow. If guests can approach the table from multiple sides, place the take-home containers in multiple spots to ensure easy access.

Frequently asked questions