For a candy buffet meant to be sampled, plan for roughly a quarter to half a pound of candy per guest. If the buffet also serves as the take-home favor, double that to about half to one pound per guest. Always round up, because events almost always go through more than expected.
The per-guest rule
A sampling buffet — guests take a small handful — runs about 0.25–0.5 lb per person. A buffet that doubles as favors, where guests fill a bag to take home, runs about 0.5–1 lb per person. Multiply by your guest count, then add a margin for the heavier-handed early arrivals.
Splitting the assortment
A good buffet mixes a few larger statement pieces with smaller fillers so jars look full without overspending. Buying by color keeps the table on theme. Order in bulk by the case so quantities scale cleanly — see bulk candy for candy buffets.
Don’t forget the vessels
Jar size drives how much you need to look full: a handful of large jars needs more candy than many small ones for the same visual effect. Decide the vessels first, then buy to fill them with a little to spare.
FAQ
How much candy per person for a candy buffet?
About a quarter to half a pound per guest for sampling, and roughly half to one pound per guest if the buffet also serves as the favor.
How do I keep a candy buffet from looking empty?
Mix larger statement pieces with small fillers, choose jar sizes deliberately, and buy enough to fill every vessel with a little to spare.