Lolly Buffets are always a welcome treat at parties and weddings, and they seem to instantly bring about that wonderful “ kid in a lolly shop” feeling, no matter what age you are!
As much a party decoration as they are an edible treat, you’ll quickly discover that there is definitely no right or wrong way to do Lolly Buffets, it is entirely a personal thing!
Here are some guidelines to help make sure you end up with a display that looks as Sweet as it tastes!
You will need:
Several glass containers in a variety of shapes and sizes
Pedestal servers
Favourite Lollies
Colour Themed Lollies & Chocolates
Scoops or Tongs
Containers for Lollies
Small Cellophane Bags
Mini Boxes
Chinese Noodle Boxes
Organza Bags
Labels / Name Tags
Other Embellishments to decorate the jars / table
How many Lollies do you need?
The number one thing to keep in mind when creating a Lolly Buffet? Don’t skimp! Instead of thinking in terms of how many lollies each guest will actually eat, it’s best to think of your Lolly Buffet as a decorative element and focus on creating a display that looks visually stunning just as you would do with flower arrangements or other ‘regular’ party décor.
For Large Parties or Weddings: 8 – 10 types of Lollies ------- 1.3 – 2 kilos each
For Smaller Parties or Weddings: 5 – 7 types of Lollies ------- 1 – 1.3 kilos each
You can have a little extra, for topping up the containers as the occasion progresses. You can work on approximately 150 grams per person, as some will not have any and some people will eat a little more, so it will even out.
Tips & Tricks: To help create a full look to your Buffet, when you are on a tight budget, use other decorative ‘filler’ items on the table around the Lolly Jars. Paper lanterns, flowers, flower petals, and picture frames are great ‘filler’ elements. You can even sneak in some jars of inexpensive, co-ordinating cookies, slices and cup cakes to help fill space and create a decadent, abundant look to the Buffet.
Use a variety of types of Lollies – individually wrapped, unwrapped with a hard candy shell (i.e. M&M’s, Skittles), hard candies, gummy lollies, lollipops, old-fashioned candy sticks, chocolates etc.
Purchase Lollies at a bulk confectionery store. If it is possible for you to buy bulk lollies locally, bring your containers into the store with you to make sure you purchase the correct amount.
If you are ordering Lollies Online, be sure to place your order well in advance so that you have time to stage the buffet at home before the party and order more Lollies if necessary. You also want to avoid rush shipping fees, as bulk lollies can be very heavy!
Consider your environment, e.g. if you are having an outdoor wedding in the summer, you may want to avoid chocolate, yoghurt covered malt balls, and other types of sweets that can melt in the heat.
To narrow down the wide selection of Lollies available, which can be overwhelming when you are deciding on the ‘Lolly Menu’, focus on creating a Buffet that matches your party colours and / or theme.
Use different shapes, sizes, and heights of containers, and make sure there openings are wide enough for guests to scoop Lollies out of. Cylinder vases and jars are widely available in discount stores, because their glassware for this type of project is often the perfect price! Embellish containers with ribbon, custom labels, and other decorative embellishments!
