Modern day candy just doesn't feel the same. There is something about old fashioned candy that makes me smile. Today's candy is no match to the likes of: Teaberry gum, Necco wafers, Boston Baked Beans, root beer barrels, or Abba Zaba. Each one of these yummy candies brings about associations to different childhood memories. Since many of these candies are no longer sold in stores it got me thinking, what are some fun ways to celebrate these retro candy favorites?
One idea that came to mind was to order a bunch of old time candy from the internet and throw a party with a nostalgic theme. One approach could be to send out invitations that have a classic look to them encouraging guests to dress according to the decade they were born in. Then you can surprise them all by setting up appropriate decorations and music, but more importantly, creatively displaying some of the nostalgic candy you ordered. Not only does candy serve as a great decoration, but it is the perfect conversation piece. When guests notice some of the candies they haven't had in years they will have to get a taste. Everyone is surely to have a story of their favorite childhood candy memory.
The party idea may only work for certain crowds, but sending retro candy as a gift is sure to make anyone happy. Simply go online and find a candy store that sells nostalgic candy in a nicely organized gif box and have it shipped to whomever. This is the perfect way to thank someone in the office, a neighbor, or an old friend you were thinking about. As a business gift someone once gave me an arrangement of a few different old fashioned candies. It was great! I took the candies home and shared them with my family as we told different stories about what each candy reminded us of. What a perfect way to send a unique gift to someone who deserves it.
A friend of mine used old fashioned candy at their kid's birthday party and it was a hit! It makes sense; we love old time candy not just for the memories but because it tastes good too. Kids these days still get excited over gum cigarettes, circus peanuts, gold mine gum, or even rock candy. You could use nostalgic candy as a thank you gift to the party guests or create a game and hand out the candy as a prize. I have also heard of parents putting their old time favorite candies in their children's stockings at Christmas. To their surprise, the kids loved it and said something like, "why don't we have cool candy like this today?"
These are just a few of many ideas to bringing back some old favorite candies. No matter your preference of old fashioned candy there is certainly a fun story to go with it. This is why we all love retro candy so much; it's fun! More than just eating candy, nostalgic candy provides stories and entertainment with friends, kids, neighbors, or co-workers. Give it a try and expect a real big smile!
Christopher Pratt is President of Candy Warehouse, the leading bulk candy store online with discounts and specialty candy for specific occasions. Share childhood memories with the help of old fashioned candy and other sweet treats.