Kim Foren Adds a Twist to the Classic Valentines Gift

Decorations will be the Fastest-Growing Segment as Consumers Relieve Pent-Up Demand

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Greater spending on small-ticket items like candy and decorations will boost Halloween sales from its recessionary lows.

Earlier this week we published an article about candy to avoid while taking birth control. The topic received an overwhelming response of good and bad comments. We found this article on CNN about foods, including licorice, that can have negative effects when combined with medication.

Birth control has become one of the most widely used medications for women in their reproductive years. But, did you know that one all-time favorite candy can actually interfere with the drug?

This year, wedding cakes have taken on a new and innovative form. Couples have been using creative treats and artistic alternatives in place of traditional wedding cakes. Having a nontraditional cake at a wedding is an inventive way to spice up the reception and offer new and exciting sweets.

Valentine’s Day means lots of candies – conversation hearts, chocolates, candy corns – you name it and it’s probably in a bowl at your office. For a quick nutritional guide on what to eat, and what to enjoy less of, check out this handy candy calorie chart courtesy of FitSugar.

Despite economic gloom casting a spell on consumer confidence this year, America’s darkest holiday is looking bright for retailers. According to industry research firm IBISWorld, Halloween sales are expected to reach a record-breaking $6 billion in 2009, up 4.2 percent from the $5.77 billion generated last year.

“Economic recovery appears to be around the corner and consumers are enthusiastically looking to escape their recessionary woes,” said Toon van Beeck, senior analyst with IBISWorld. “Even last year, when the outlook was much worse, the Halloween spirit remained unhindered as we saw total sales actually jump 5.1 percent from 2007.”

It appears an increasing number of people are buying treats this year, making candy the fastest growing holiday category. The average person is estimated to spend about $22.50 on Halloween treats in 2009.

Also fuelling this year’s record-breaking sales is the demand for holiday decorations. With Halloween falling on a Saturday this year, more adults are expected to join the fun. In fact, 32 percent of people celebrating the holiday will either host or attend a party. For this reason, IBISWorld expects decorations to reach its highest level yet at $1.64 billion.

“Halloween-related festivities are a growing trend and this is driving sales of decorations and candy,” adds van Beeck. “Dollar and variety stores stand to benefit from the 4.4 percent increase in decoration sales, as consumers look to purchase cheap and disposable thrills to make a memorable evening.”

Call it escapism or just good, old-fashioned fun, Americans of all ages show the desire to go all out when it comes to dressing-up. Costumes are expected to generate the greatest amount of revenue this Halloween, but growth is slight (2.4 percent) as consumers will apply more frugal but creative approaches when shopping.

”Despite more people participating in festivities, money is still tight and consumers will look to cut corners when it comes costume purchases,” said van Beeck. “Instead of buying a packaged costume, which can cost up to $60 on average, people will get more eclectic and opt for cheaper individual items.”

But given the lack of growth for the card category, not all cheaper items will fare well this year. While cards did well last year, as consumers chose to cut back on pricier categories, 2009 expenditures will revert back to traditional shopping habits.

“Although unemployment is still very high, the overall outlook is far rosier today than it was this time last year,” adds van Beeck. “For this reason, IBISWorld expects the upward trend in Halloween expenditures to continue its course for 2009, which despite economic conditions will prove to be the best year yet.”

I’m a huge fan of peanut butter and chocolate, so this family recipe is one of my favorite holiday treats. I hope you enjoy!

PEANUT BUTTER CHOCOLATE BOMBOMS
1 1/2 c. peanut butter
2 sticks butter
1 box confectionery sugar
12 ounces chocolate chips
1/4 bar paraffin

Mix peanut butter, butter and suger together and then roll into small balls on waxed paper-lined cookie sheet. Put in refrigerator for 30 minutes.

Next, melt chocolate chips and grated paraffin in double boiler. Dip balls into chocolate using one toothpick per ball. Let cool. After you’re finished go back and fill the toothpick hole with a drop of chocolate using the toothpick.

Tip: For a more festive look, add some colored sprinkles to the cooling chocolate-dipped bomboms.