How to set up a Candy Bar yourself and not die trying

Sweet tables or Candy Bars are very fashionable. There isn't a celebration, party, wedding, christening, or First Communion without a sweets table. At first glance, it seems very easy to set up, but getting it perfect is not always that simple.

In this post, I will give you some tips and secrets to make it spectacular. ;)

1. Choose the right table

It's very important that the table is not too big... this is the main mistake we make. If the table is big, it will be very difficult to fill it and there's nothing worse than an empty table... I'm a fan of choosing small tables. I believe the ideal size for a Candy Bar for up to 30 or 40 people is approximately 80 x 120-160 cm.

You can use a beautiful antique desk with style, a fun dresser with a vintage touch, a cart or trolley is always ideal, or whatever you want. The important thing is that it's not a large dining table for 12 people... If you don't have any nice furniture worth showing off, the best thing to do is to take a basic board with some trestles and place a large tablecloth that should always reach the floor. It's the easiest way and always looks impeccable.

2. Create height.

To set up any sweet table or Candy Bar, the most important thing is to create height. It will help the table look more "full" and harmonious. You can create these different heights with wooden boxes, covered boxes, cake stands, a large XL jar of sweets, flowers, or any element that creates the height you need. Always place the tallest items at the back and in the middle of your table to highlight something.

The cake, a beverage dispenser, or a cupcake stand is always a good option to place in the middle of the table. In this link, you will find a selection of ideal cake stands that we sell in our shop.

We love this table we set up for a Safari First Communion in Kraft and natural tones. The color combination is very elegant and fun for children.

3. Choose a color palette or theme.

Choose the combination of colors, materials, or theme you are going to use and try to stick to it. The same goes for the colors of the sweets... try to be consistent throughout, but don't overdo it, it can end up looking a bit boring!

4. Calculate quantities and choose sweets carefully.

This topic, without a doubt, generates the most questions. For a sweet table for about 24 to 30 people, the ideal is to place about 5 to 7 kilos of assorted sweets. Combine shapes and flavors; the more variety, the better. Pay special attention to the sweets you buy. Try to ensure they are manufactured in Europe and do not contain gluten or trans fats. In our shop, you will find a wide variety of sweet jars ready for your Candy Bar and other individual ones to give as gifts with selected sweets of the best quality on the market.

It never hurts to think about possible guests with celiac disease, and if we offer sweets, let's try to ensure they are of the best possible quality. Guests will appreciate it. ;)

This is a basic list we use for our sweet tables, designed for approximately 24 to 30 people. I'll provide direct links to the products to make your search easier...

Sweets needed for a Candy Bar for 24 to 30 people

24 to 30 Pica Pica Straws in the colors of the table. They add height, which is what we want.
24 to 30 Artisan fruit lollipops or similar.
24 Candy necklaces or some specially shaped candy.

1 Kg. of Popcorn, chocolates, or cereal balls. This is a good option for those who don't like sweets.
2 Kg. of marshmallows in the chosen colors. Place them in the larger and taller jars. Check the quality of the marshmallows; try to ensure they are Gluten-Free.
5 Kg. of gummy candies of flavors and colors matching your chosen color palette. Pay close attention to the quality. We recommend combining bulk gummies and personalized sweet jars.

In our sweet tables, we always add some personalized sweet jars that are already assembled. They will add a special touch to your table. In our shop, you will find a wide variety; you can choose the theme you like best.

You can also add cookies, cupcakes, cake pops, or some seasonal fruit cut into skewers. You'll be surprised how quickly fruit disappears at Candy Bars; a little fruit is always a good idea.

5. The shopping list: accessories for a perfect sweet table.

This is a sample list we use for our sweet tables; we hope it serves as a guide.

Decorative elements for a Candy Bar

· Candy Bar sign or personalized print in a frame. This detail will give your Candy Bar a special touch.
· A touch of natural flowers, some small bottles with flowers, or a basket with some greenery. You don't need a large, elaborate flower arrangement.
· Decorative "Candy Bar" garland or a banner garland that matches your theme. In our shop, you will find our letter banners that you can use to form a name. It looks ideal for christening or communion tables. You can hang it on the skirt of your table if you don't have a back wall.

Candy dishes, glass jars, or bowls.

8 glass or hard plastic bowls of different sizes and shapes. Our transparent hard plastic Marie bowls are perfect. They are safe, lightweight, pretty, and economical. We love them!
Create height with boxes of different sizes or wooden benches.
Tablecloth or table runner to add color to your table and cover the table legs if necessary.
Scoops, tongs, and napkins with the theme or colors you choose.

The secret is to combine bags and boxes so that your guests can fill them and take the best selection home. Here you will find a sample shopping list so you don't miss anything.

Decorative accessories and indicators for Candy Bar

12 Cardboard boxes
12 Paper bags for sweets
Labels and stickers to decorate your bags and boxes
Ribbon or Baker's Twine to decorate your glass jars.
3 clear plastic scoops or tongs
Table markers to write the type of sweets

In our Shop, you will find all the sweets and detailed accessories you need to set up a Candy Bar.

I hope these tips are helpful. You can see more ideas on our Pinterest, and don't forget to share your sweet tables with us on Instagram @fiestadeolivia #lafiestadeolivia ;)