Some serious business went down at the National Confectioners' Association's Sweets & Snacks Expo May 21 to 23—but exhibitors let their whimsy shine. From shoes made out of Tootsie Roll pops to plush costumed jelly beans and a Volkswagen called the "Peepster," here's a look at 15 ideas from the show at McCormick Place West. And whether you're marketing a product to kids of all ages or planning an over-the-top, candy-themed bash, consider incorporating some of these ideas into your next event.
M&M's at the Sweets & Snacks Expo
Photo: Dustin Berta for BizBash
Peeps at the Sweets & Snacks Expo
Photo: Dustin Berta for BizBash
Sweets & Snacks Expo
Photo: Dustin Berta for BizBash
Hershey at the Sweets & Snacks Expo
Photo: Dustin Berta for BizBash
Sweets & Snacks Expo
Photo: Dustin Berta for BizBash
Gary Poppins Popcorn at the Sweets & Snacks Expo
Photo: Dustin Berta for BizBash
Yum Junkie at the Sweets & Snacks Expo
Photo: Dustin Berta for BizBash
Awake Caffeinated Chocolate at the Sweets & Snacks Expo
Photo: Dustin Berta for BizBash
Lucky Country at the Sweets & Snacks Expo
Photo: Dustin Berta for BizBash
Rickland Orchards at the Sweets & Snacks Expo
Photo: Dustin Berta for BizBash
Marshmallow Fun Company at the Sweets & Snacks Expo
Photo: Dustin Berta for BizBash
Smarties at the Sweets & Snacks Expo
Photo: Dustin Berta for BizBash
Jelly Belly at the Sweets & Snacks Expo
Photo: Dustin Berta for BizBash
Byrd's Famous Cookies at the Sweets & Snacks Expo
Photo: Dustin Berta for BizBash
Candyality at the Sweets & Snacks Expo
Photo: Dustin Berta for BizBash