Valentine's Day Candy Buffet with free printable

Valentine’s Day Candy Buffet and FREE Candy Bar Printable

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Want to be the sweetest mom or co-worker ever?! Create a mini Valentine’s Day Candy Buffet that everyone can enjoy throughout the entire month of February (or at least till Valentine’s Day)! All it takes is a visit to your local 99 Cents Only store, some imagination, and a little bit of your time.

The 99 Cents Only store is one of my favorite stores to shop and stay on a budget. There are new things weekly, so I like #DoingThe99 a few times a month to pick up snacks for the kids, household items, fresh produce, and special decorations for holiday events.

And since Valentine’s Day is only two weeks away, my last 99 Cents Only visit was focused on creating something fun for my teens. They’re too old for the kiddie Valentine’s Day stuff, but I still like to treat them with something on Valentine’s Day. So while I walked through the Valentine’s Day aisle at the 99 Cents Only store, it hit me – I should create a mini grab-n-go Valentine’s Day Candy Buffet!

There was an entire aisle dedicated to all things Valentines. I found table decorations, a cute heart wall hanging, cupcake liners and toppers, vase fillers, candy bags, Valentine containers, and candy. Of course, I didn’t limit myself to just the Valentine’s Day aisle. I made sure to head to the candy aisle for Laffy Taffy sticks (one of my kids’ favorites), party aisle for plastic table covers and streamers, and the baking aisle for cake mix and frosting.

Before I knew it, I had all the items I needed to create a Valentine’s Day Candy Buffet. Honestly, though, there were so many Valentine’s Day items that it was a little overwhelming. So before you head off to the 99 Cents Only store, I’ve listed a few things you’ll need to create a candy buffet.

Valentine’s Day Candy Buffet Shopping Tips:

Have a budget in mind and stick with it
Color scheme – stick with 2-3 colors
Pick-up candy containers in various shapes/height
Add candy bags to hold treats
Pretty up the table with a plastic table cover
Use a plastic table cover as a backdrop
Use small table and wall decorations for interest
Streamers add another layer of visual interest
Candy in your theme colors or use themed color jars for other candies
Tape to hold decorations in place
Container fillers (paper or vase fillers) help to fill space in large jars

How much candy?

Pink mason jar = 1 1/2 bags of Sweetheart candy or 1 bag of Kit Kat candy (use 2 for a packed jar)
Votive = 1 pack of Tootsie roll lollipops or 1 bag Sixlets (fills 2 votives)
Short food jar = 4-5 bags of Sixlets with paper filler, up to 6 Mike-n-Ike filled plastic sticks, or bag of rolled plastic candy bags.
Tall food jar = 1-2 bags Laffy Taffy sticks

Valentine’s Day Candy Buffet Set-up

Cover the table with a white plastic table cover.
Use a red or contrasting table cover to create a table runner.
Create a backdrop by hanging a second white table cloth to the wall.
Hang a decorative heart on the table.
Hang steamers over the backdrop and drape on the front of the table. Cut along the edges to create a fringe look or leave it as-is.

Tip: To create a dove tail detail to the table runner, determine the width and length of the table runner needed. Cut to the size needed. Fold the runner in half lengthwise and cut a triangle wedge out. Fold open to reveal the dove tail cut.

Fill jars with various candies.
Use paper fillers to help fill jars or boost up candies.
Bake and decorate cupcakes or use packaged cookies.
Roll plastic candy bags into tubes (see picture below) for a pretty look.

Tips: Use a votive to hold lollipops or short wrapped candies. Use large food jars to hold bulk or large items. I used my own cake stand to hold the cupcakes, but if you don’t have a stand, create one by gluing a glass candlestick to a plate (all items can be found at the 99 Cents Only store).

Arrange jars and goodies on the table. Place smaller items in the front and larger items in the back.
Print out a FREE ‘You Make Life Sweet. Grab a bag & Some Treats!’ printable.

Tip: Vary the height of the containers for interest and create a focal point in the center.

Once everything is filled and decorated, you should have a fun mini Valentine’s Day Candy Buffet table that everyone can enjoy!

Find more 99 Cents Only inspiration and party ideas by watching this video or connect on social media.

Comments

Debbee says
February 13, 2019 at 5:56 AM

Erlene, a sweet post for sure! Your teens must think you are mother of the year!
Mother of 3 says
February 13, 2019 at 4:10 AM

This post was picked as one of my featured favorites! Thanks again for sharing with us.
Mother of 3 says
February 2, 2019 at 12:57 PM

That looks like such a yummy buffet and so pretty too! Thanks for sharing with us at Share Some Love. Pinned.
Tiffany VanSickle says
February 9, 2017 at 11:48 AM

This is such a fun idea! This would be perfect for a party. I LOVE our Dollar Tree and go there often!
Erlene at My Pinterventures says
February 9, 2017 at 9:59 AM

It’s kind of a hit or miss with the jars. I went back for more and they were wiped out. Just have to get there when they restock…lol.
Erlene at My Pinterventures recently posted…Wood Heart Popsicle Stick Bookmarks – Valentine’s Day Gift for Book Lovers
Erlene at My Pinterventures says
February 9, 2017 at 9:58 AM

Thank you. Yes, the 99 Cents Only stores help with staying on budget.
Erlene at My Pinterventures recently posted…Wood Heart Popsicle Stick Bookmarks – Valentine’s Day Gift for Book Lovers
Erlene at My Pinterventures says
February 9, 2017 at 9:50 AM

Yup, the candy is already gone.
Erlene at My Pinterventures recently posted…Wood Heart Popsicle Stick Bookmarks – Valentine’s Day Gift for Book Lovers
Erlene at My Pinterventures says
February 9, 2017 at 9:49 AM

This year’s Valentine’s Day stuff is way cute!
Erlene at My Pinterventures recently posted…Wood Heart Popsicle Stick Bookmarks – Valentine’s Day Gift for Book Lovers
Erlene at My Pinterventures says
February 9, 2017 at 9:49 AM

My kids loved it and already devoured the candy in the pictures…lol.
Erlene at My Pinterventures recently posted…Wood Heart Popsicle Stick Bookmarks – Valentine’s Day Gift for Book Lovers
Erlene at My Pinterventures says
February 9, 2017 at 9:48 AM

Thanks for pinning. Yes, a table like this would work for any occasion. I’m planning on doing a smaller version for St. Patrick’s Day.
Erlene at My Pinterventures recently posted…Wood Heart Popsicle Stick Bookmarks – Valentine’s Day Gift for Book Lovers
Erlene at My Pinterventures says
February 9, 2017 at 9:47 AM

Agree. This would work anywhere 🙂
Erlene at My Pinterventures recently posted…Wood Heart Popsicle Stick Bookmarks – Valentine’s Day Gift for Book Lovers
Erlene at My Pinterventures says
February 9, 2017 at 9:46 AM

Thanks Nicole. It was a fun set up to create.
Erlene at My Pinterventures recently posted…Wood Heart Popsicle Stick Bookmarks – Valentine’s Day Gift for Book Lovers
Erlene at My Pinterventures says
February 9, 2017 at 9:46 AM

Thank you. I tried to keep it kid friendly 🙂
Erlene at My Pinterventures recently posted…Wood Heart Popsicle Stick Bookmarks – Valentine’s Day Gift for Book Lovers
Erlene at My Pinterventures says
February 9, 2017 at 9:43 AM

I missed it. I’ll try to remember to link-up tomorrow.
Erlene at My Pinterventures recently posted…Wood Heart Popsicle Stick Bookmarks – Valentine’s Day Gift for Book Lovers
Erlene at My Pinterventures says
February 9, 2017 at 9:42 AM

Thanks. There were soooo many cute decor items that I had hard time narrowing it down.
Erlene at My Pinterventures recently posted…Wood Heart Popsicle Stick Bookmarks – Valentine’s Day Gift for Book Lovers
Erlene at My Pinterventures says
February 9, 2017 at 9:41 AM

It’s so fun and the kids enjoy it.
Erlene at My Pinterventures recently posted…Wood Heart Popsicle Stick Bookmarks – Valentine’s Day Gift for Book Lovers
Erlene at My Pinterventures says
February 9, 2017 at 9:41 AM

Hopefully someday the will have some of their products online.
Erlene at My Pinterventures recently posted…Wood Heart Popsicle Stick Bookmarks – Valentine’s Day Gift for Book Lovers
Erlene at My Pinterventures says
February 9, 2017 at 9:40 AM

Thanks to 99 Cents Only, it was super simple since everything was all in one place.
Erlene at My Pinterventures recently posted…Wood Heart Popsicle Stick Bookmarks – Valentine’s Day Gift for Book Lovers
Erlene at My Pinterventures says
February 9, 2017 at 9:40 AM

The kids were circling like sharks.
Erlene at My Pinterventures recently posted…Wood Heart Popsicle Stick Bookmarks – Valentine’s Day Gift for Book Lovers
Erlene at My Pinterventures says
February 9, 2017 at 9:39 AM

Thanks. Come on over!
Erlene at My Pinterventures recently posted…Wood Heart Popsicle Stick Bookmarks – Valentine’s Day Gift for Book Lovers
Erlene at My Pinterventures says
February 9, 2017 at 9:39 AM

It’s perfect for lollipops 🙂
Erlene at My Pinterventures recently posted…Wood Heart Popsicle Stick Bookmarks – Valentine’s Day Gift for Book Lovers
Erlene at My Pinterventures says
February 9, 2017 at 9:39 AM

That would be so sweet and probably much appreciated…because who doesn’t like a little candy 🙂
Erlene at My Pinterventures recently posted…Wood Heart Popsicle Stick Bookmarks – Valentine’s Day Gift for Book Lovers
Erlene at My Pinterventures says
February 9, 2017 at 9:37 AM

Thanks. 99 Cents Only had so many cute decor items that it was hard to pick a color theme.
Erlene at My Pinterventures recently posted…Wood Heart Popsicle Stick Bookmarks – Valentine’s Day Gift for Book Lovers
Erlene at My Pinterventures says
February 9, 2017 at 9:37 AM

My kids totally loved it (and their dad too).
Erlene at My Pinterventures recently posted…Wood Heart Popsicle Stick Bookmarks – Valentine’s Day Gift for Book Lovers
Erlene at My Pinterventures says
February 9, 2017 at 9:36 AM

Well, the table is empty now. So it was a big hit 🙂
Erlene at My Pinterventures recently posted…Wood Heart Popsicle Stick Bookmarks – Valentine’s Day Gift for Book Lovers
Marielle Altenor says
February 7, 2017 at 10:14 PM

Oh wow! That so cool! I can’t get over how packed with goodies your 99 cents only store is. UGH! Ours never have cute jars like that.
Marielle Altenor recently posted…Grateful Sunday: 3 Reasons why I miss you – One week alone recap!
Adriana Lopez Martn says
February 6, 2017 at 9:57 PM

You did a beautiful job al looks so nice and the DIY seems very easy to make. Thanks so much for showing us how to celebrate valentines managing the budget =)
Neely Moldovan says
February 6, 2017 at 11:53 AM

I think a candy buffet sounds delish! I mean who doesnt love valentines candy!?
CourtneyLynne says
February 6, 2017 at 9:01 AM

Omg so cute!!! I just love the 99 cent store!! Always finding the cutest thing s there.
Alicia says
February 6, 2017 at 8:36 AM

What a fun idea! Our kids would love to do this!
Alicia recently posted…Check Out The Fate of the Furious Trailer! #F8 #TheFateOfTheFurious
Annemarie LeBlanc says
February 6, 2017 at 5:16 AM

This is an awesome idea! Its great that you don’t need to spend a lot of money to put this candy buffet together. I’m saving this post to use for later. The candy buffet can suit any occasion – a birthday, a baby shower, a bachelorette party, etc. Thanks for sharing your idea.
valmg @ Mom Knows It All says
February 6, 2017 at 3:08 AM

That all looks terrific! It would be perfect for anyone hosting a party for children, an organization or even work.
Nicole says
February 5, 2017 at 7:21 AM

Stopping by to say how cute this Valentine’s Day Idea is. Pinned! Thanks for linking up at the #HomeMattersParty
Albert Nesmith says
February 5, 2017 at 3:25 AM

Candy buffet? Yes. please!
Albert Nesmith recently posted…firstinhermind.com – Shelley’s Instant Attraction Generator Package
Leanna says
February 4, 2017 at 11:05 PM

What a fun generous thing to put together. Your printables look great. It Valentines and kind without being really romantic so anyone can enjoy it. Great concept. Pinning
Charlene Asay says
February 4, 2017 at 9:07 PM

Looks like a super fun party. Great planning. I would love to have you link up with us at Family Joy Blog Link Up Party tomorrow. Check us out http://thinking-outside-the-pot.com/?p=3325
Amber Harrop says
February 4, 2017 at 2:50 AM

It all looks fabulous Erlene, I love that you could do this all from the 99c shop too !!
Claudia Krusch says
February 3, 2017 at 9:47 PM

A Valentines Day candy buffet is a great idea. I will have to get the supplies I need to make one for my house.
Milena says
February 3, 2017 at 3:40 PM

Thanks for the printables! I wish we had a 99 Cents Only store by us! These are wonderful ideas.
Keikilani says
February 3, 2017 at 2:25 PM

Your table is just gorgeous! You make it so simple. I want to do this for Valentines.
Liz Mays says
February 3, 2017 at 2:15 PM

Ooh, what a great Valentine’s Day haul! I’m loving that table setup! What a nice surprise for kids or guests!
Rebecca Bryant says
February 3, 2017 at 1:14 PM

Oh my what a sweet set up. We love a good candy bar and this one is beautiful as well as fun. Be right over to party.
Mandy Carter says
February 3, 2017 at 1:11 PM

This is a cute valentine’s idea. I love the tip for using a votive for short candy. So many times I could have used that idea!
Catherine Sargent says
February 3, 2017 at 9:48 AM

This Valentines’ Day candy buffet is so cute and creative. I need to do this at work for all of my coworkers.
Reesa Lewandowski says
February 3, 2017 at 6:39 AM

This is like a kid’s dream come true! I love all of these candies and the pretty Valentine’s Day themed decor!
Ashley says
February 3, 2017 at 4:53 AM

Very cute Valentine’s Day party! I did something similar a year ago and the kids loved it!
Ashley recently posted…Mind the Nutritional Gap with MegaFood
Erlene at My Pinterventures says
February 1, 2017 at 5:10 PM

Thanks Shirley. Your recent party posts have inspired me to bling out my party displays a bit more 🙂
David @ Spiced says
February 1, 2017 at 8:53 AM

What a fun Valentine’s Day idea for teenagers! They’re too old for exchanging the cards, but I bet they loved this grab-n-go Valentine’s Day candy table! I know this would have been a huge hit when I was a kid…actually, it would still be a huge hit now. 🙂 Thanks for sharing! #client
David @ Spiced recently posted…Red Velvet Cupcakes
Shirley Wood says
February 1, 2017 at 4:56 AM

Clearly I need to make a trip to the .99 store! Your Valentine buffet is beautiful.
Shirley Wood recently posted…DIY Monogrammed Valentine Gift Bags