Candy buffets are popular for parties, special events and weddings. Typically, a selection of candy is arranged on an attractive buffet table tailored for the specific event. People can certainly purchase all of the candy themselves and create a candy buffet on their own, but professionals are skilled at creating a candy buffet with style and a unique presentation. Hiring a professional definitely saves time and it can also sometimes save money. Depending on how elaborate the buffet is, do-it-yourselfers may need to buy or rent glassware, tables, linens and other decor. Professionals provide everything needed, and they set up, maintain and tear down the buffet after the event. Professionals can also procure hard-to-find or custom candies at a lower cost than most individuals can find themselves. Costs for candy buffets depend on the number of guests at the event and the amount and quality of candy and decor.
Most candy buffet services ask customers how many guests their event will have and then determine how many candies and other elements will be needed. Most pros base package pricing on the number of guests too. Industry experts peg the average cost per guest at $4$7.
Diego Candy Buffets of Vista, California, offers eight packages based on the number of guests:
50 guests: five candies, 17 vases or containers
100 guests: six candies, 19 vases or containers
150 guests: seven candies, 20 vases or containers
200 guests: eight candies, 22 vases or containers
250 guests: eight candies, 24 vases or containers
300 guests: nine candies, 25 vases or containers
350 guests: nine candies, 28 vases or containers
400 guests: 10 candies, 32 vases or containers
Confections Candy Buffets of Redlands, California, offers three packages priced from $4.50 to $6.50 per person:
50 to 100 guests: five candies, minimum of seven containers
101 to 200 guests: seven candies, minimum of 10 containers
201 to 300 guests: 10 candies, minimum of 13 containers
Many candy buffet professionals will provide a quote only after a consultation.
In addition to the candy, a range of other elements can be added to a candy buffet. Usually these elements are included in an overall package price.
distinctive DESIGNS of Brick, New Jersey, includes all the following as part of its packages:
Custom design services
Rental of tiers, displayware, apothecary jars and containers
Styling, setup and breakdown
Coordinating linens, overlays and accent fabric
Table
Servingware
Customized labels and stationery
Gourmet take-home bags
Not surprisingly, the more expensive the candy, the higher the overall cost. The same goes for the ornateness of the decor.
Buy a little less candy than the professional recommends. In many cases, there are leftovers that are simply taken home by guests at the end of the event or, worse, thrown away. Ask for discounts and packages.