ART DE LA TABLE

Gaston Kitmitto, photographer, event planner and etiquette recreate an elegant confectionary display for your next big shindig

Candy buffet with Gaston Kitmitto

What kinds of events would be best for featuring a candy buffet?

A candy buffet or candy bar is no longer reserved for kids' events. It's for everyone to enjoy and will surely add that 'wow' factor with a combination of personalized decoration and flavors.

Does it take the place of traditional favors?

We still have the traditional buffet of desserts placed next to the food buffet. However, the candy buffet serves a different purpose; both decorative and comprising favors to enjoy at any time during the event and to take away... We include little cones for guests to fill with candy and personalized jars. For example, a jar with the photo of the bride and groom can be a great souvenir.

What type of display and containers work best?

I like to use all clear jars and containers, like the ones you see in traditional French confiseries - patisseries.

How much candy should be available per person?

I like to set a generous and pretty candy bar, regardless of the number of people. It is not accounted for like the food and dessert buffet.

How do you add that wow factor?

Unlike the traditional buffet, the candy buffet is placed in unexpected places, such as in the welcome drink area or in the middle of the ballroom, or on the side of the dance floor. It should be a surprise.

s having a speci c color scheme best?

If it is an Oriental themed candy bar, you can place some Turkish delights (lukum), nougat filled with pistachios, semsmye, marzipan etc... If it is a French themed candy bar, you will find macarons, meringues, madeleines, mints, dragees de Paris etc... I once used personalized Nutella jars at the bride's request and tarboush/ghandour rewrapped all in white.

What about incorporating non-candy items like fruit, cookies, popcorn...?

Absolutely! It all depends on the general theme or feel of the candy bar.

Any tips you can offer on presentation?

Always personalize and have fun.