The Perfect Candy Apple Bar (Slideshow)

Thinking about the vessels for your party is as important as the display. Grab a beautiful old silver tray or wicker basket to lay out the apples artfully. You should also pick a variety of apples in a variety of colors for visual and sensory appeal.

Of course, once you have an idea of how you want them arranged, you want to make them as accessible to your guests as possible. Keep it festive by using decorative skewers like these witch's brooms or rustic-looking sticks to match your theme. Also, make sure you have a basket for "dirty skewers."

Make sure that you have dippable spreads available for your guests to use on hand. Keep melted chocolate syrup and caramel on hot plates to keep the delicious spreads nice and warm. If you are worried about the dips congealing, try offering stick spreads like peanut butter as a sticky, makeshift alternative.

This is where anything goes! Just be sure that your apple bar has a variety of options, from small candies to chopped nuts to crushed candy bars. You can even have the option to include gummy candies and encourage guests to get creative with their designs.

While candy apples are a delicious addition to any party, frankly they can make things a little messy. Make sure that you offer festive utensils and plenty of napkins by the bar so food spills don't happen!