In May of 2002 Stephen Allen’s wife had more than just a sweet idea when
she decided to tape LifeSavers® to a gift bag that their daughter was
taking to a birthday party. She may not have realized it at the time, but
her innovative gift wrapping job inspired Stephen Allen to patent the idea,
which has become SweetWrap (ToyDirectory).
SweetWraps are unique colorful gift bags that incorporate part of the gift
into the wrap using a variety of confectionary favorites: candy hearts,
gummy worms, and peach rings, to name a few tasty options.
After the present is opened, the receiver can tear open the bag to enjoy
the individually packaged candies. The bags typically retail at $6.99,
which is slightly more expensive than an average gift bag. However, a
SweetWrap is actually a gift in itself. Besides making a great gift, these
bags are also fun to give away as prizes at parties.
Although the first bag sold in October of 2002, SweetWrap got its jumpstart
at the Oasis Gift Show in 2003. According to Allen, president of SweetWrap,
the most popular design to date is the bright gummy worms on a vibrant
blue bag, but the Valentine’s design with candy hearts is a close second.
“We are always looking for new designs,” Allen says. SweetWrap is in the
process of developing more new product ideas after attending a candy show
in May.
Looking for a gift with taste? The SweetWrap website (sweetwrap.com)
offers a catalog of designs offered as well as contact information for
retailers wishing to sell SweetWrap at their store.
