Candy-Themed Birthday Party

Photo: Elena Sullivan

I recently came across pictures from my daughter's candy-themed birthday party and I thought it would be fun to share the details here with you. Perhaps it was the beautiful colors—or perhaps it's the fact that I am currently trying to reduce my sugar intake—but either way, they made me smile, and I hope they make you smile as well.

Last August my daughter asked for a candy-themed tenth birthday party. I have to admit, I had my doubts. In this day and age, sugar is public enemy number one. Hosting a candy party is a surefire way to charm small guests...and alienate their parents.

Once you make amends with that, hosting a candy-themed party can be lots of fun! Let's face it, all of those artificial colors really liven up a table and plain vanilla cupcakes take on new life when adorned with swirly lollipops.

Believe it or not, candy can even help with table manners. Want your small guests to take a fork and napkin? Try wrapping them up with a candy bracelet!

Photo: Elena Sullivan

A favorite sweet can become a fun party game: this candy button inspired activity is called a punch box. Guests punch through tissue paper circles to retrieve small toys or (what else?) candy. It's a wonderful alternative to a piñata. (After all, little kids with big sticks can be kind of scary, especially when they're hopped up on sugar!)

Want to make your own? Find a step-by-step tutorial here.

Photo: Elena Sullivan

Eventually your sugar-filled guests will have to make their way home. A mason jar full of gumballs is a sweet reminder of the fun they had. And toothbrushes might just get you back into their parents' good graces!

Photo: Elena Sullivan