Of course I made sure to check the expiration dates and all of the candies had expiration dates well past Brody’s party date. The lollipops were in Christmas boxes, but the lollipops were still wrapped in cellophane so taking them out of the box, they were just regular pink and red swirly lollipops. I bought all the bags they had which was about 25 bags for 10 cents each! And after Christmas, I found large swirly lollipops for a quarter at Target’s dollar section since they were marked down 75% off. One of my best finds were bags of jelly beans at 90% off at CVS after the Easter holiday. Since my parties are always budget-friendly, I started buying candy almost immediately after I knew that I would be throwing a Candyland party. Not only would I need candy for guests to eat at the party and take home, but I would also be using candy as décor in vases and pots or whatever I would use to bring in pops of color. Next, I knew that I would have to buy lots of candy to make a nice looking candy buffet. Thankfully my husband gives input from time to time when I am unsure of certain designs, and we both agreed that the colorful track of the board game would be a focal point on the printables. Without a doubt, the Candyland board game was my inspiration. To start the party planning process, I always start with what colors I want to use so I can start designing the customized party printables (the banner, labels, cupcake toppers, etc.).
It is always so much fun sitting down on the floor and staring at a board full of yummy treats and bright colors while spending quality time with my little one. Another reason why I had to throw a Candyland party is the fact that Brody and I love playing the board game. My husband doesn’t care much for sweets, so he finds it humorous when he sees me as excited as our kids when we pass a candy shop, ice cream parlor, or bakery. I had just started my obsession with reading party blogs, and candy buffets were everywhere! And of course I am a sweets lover, along with my two children. This year, I wanted so badly to throw a Candyland party. Fortunately, Brody is still at an age where I can coax him into wanting a party theme that I secretly want to throw. Yes, I am one of those “passionate” party planners who is always thinking of the next party, even if the party is a year away. The day after my son Brody turned 4, I started planning his 5th birthday party. Thanks to our guest writer, Iris Metal for this story.
It’s a budget friendly Candyland party too! Check out our ideas on how to throw a candyland birthday party below.