Perception is everything.

Perception is everything. If a well-packaged candy, using virtuous graphics, papers or fabrics, radiates from a retailer's shelf, the buyer already forms a preconceived notion that the candy inside will taste as well adapted as the packaging looks.

It's that "take me not on the shelf" image, which candy makers strive for and consumer can't resist.

"Your first impression of a returns is the packaging around this product" says Karen Smith, proprietor and president of Carrollton, Ca.-based Printed Specialties. "Most likely if they pick it up not upon the shelf, they'll walk away with it. Packaging gives an aura