As corporate caterers, we have the privilege of serving businesses of all sizes in the Miami area, from large corporations to small home-based businesses, every day. All of them are interacting digitally at levels we’ve never witnessed before. Whether it be an M&A team at a downtown investment bank conducting most of the communications over Microsoft Teams or a local flower shop in Miami Shores project managing marketing activity over ASANA rather than in person. As a result, more than ever, people crave shared experience when the opportunity does arise.
At Total Snacks, where we bring the joy of Dippin’ Dots, Doc Popcorn and the rest of our huge snack portfolio to events, venues, and gatherings, we noticed something profound: snacks, as simple as they may seem, have an unparalleled ability to foster connection. Whether it’s a scoop of rainbow-colored ice cream beads at a family reunion or the smell of freshly popped popcorn wafting through a crowd, these small, sensory moments create lasting bonds.
But what does this have to do with the boardroom, professional relationships, or business success? As it turns out, quite a lot. Connection is at the heart of every thriving business, team, and partnership. And the lessons we’ve learned from our “fun foods” industry carry over remarkably well to the professional world. Here’s what snacks can teach us about building stronger, more meaningful connections in our personal and professional lives.
Shared Experiences Build Stronger Bonds
Think back to a childhood memory of sharing a treat with a friend or family member. Maybe it was a carnival, where the two of you split a bag of popcorn, or a summer fair, where you tried Dippin’ Dots for the first time. Those moments stick because they’re tied to a sensory experience—taste, smell, and even the act of sharing itself.
In the professional world, shared experiences serve a similar purpose. Whether it’s a team offsite, a celebratory lunch, or a collaborative brainstorming session, these moments create a shared narrative. They foster trust and camaraderie, making it easier to tackle challenges together.
At Total Snacks, we’ve seen this play out at corporate events. Teams gather around our popcorn machines or ice cream kiosks, laughing and connecting over their favorite flavors. These moments, though brief, break down barriers and remind us of our shared humanity. In the workplace, creating opportunities for shared experiences—whether through food, activities, or celebrations—can have a similar effect.
Small Gestures Make a Big Impact
A handful of popcorn or a small cup of Dippin’ Dots might not seem significant on its own. But when handed to someone at the right moment—a tired parent at a theme park, a curious child at a fair—it becomes a symbol of care and thoughtfulness.
In business, small gestures often have the greatest impact. A handwritten thank-you note to a client, a coffee run for your team, or even remembering someone’s favorite snack can transform relationships. These actions show that you value and see the individual beyond the transaction or task.
We’ve learned that it’s not always about grand gestures or big marketing campaigns. Often, the quiet, thoughtful details leave the strongest impression. For example, we’ve had repeat customers tell us how much they appreciated that we remembered their favorite popcorn flavor or went out of our way to ensure their event ran smoothly.
How can you incorporate small, meaningful gestures into your professional relationships? A little attention to detail goes a long way in building trust and goodwill.
Nostalgia Is a Powerful Connector
One of the reasons Dippin’ Dots and Doc Popcorn resonate so strongly with people is nostalgia. For many, these snacks are tied to happy childhood memories, family outings, or carefree moments. Nostalgia creates an emotional bridge to the past while anchoring us in the present.
In the professional world, nostalgia can also be a tool for connection. Whether it’s referencing a shared cultural moment, celebrating a milestone, or finding common ground in past experiences, nostalgia fosters a sense of belonging.
For example, during corporate events, we’ve noticed how adults light up when they see Dippin’ Dots. It takes them back to their youth and immediately creates a sense of joy and familiarity. Similarly, in the workplace, tapping into shared history—like reminiscing about a team’s early struggles and successes—can strengthen bonds and reinvigorate a sense of purpose.
Authenticity and Joy Are Contagious
One of the reasons snacks like Dippin’ Dots and Doc Popcorn succeed is their authenticity. They don’t pretend to be anything other than what they are—fun, delicious, and a little whimsical. That sense of authenticity resonates deeply with people.
Similarly, joy is contagious. When we set up our snack stations at events, we often see one person’s excitement spark joy in others. It’s a chain reaction, a ripple effect of positivity.
In professional settings, authenticity and joy are just as powerful. Leaders who bring genuine enthusiasm and positivity to their work inspire their teams. Companies that embrace their unique identity and infuse joy into their culture attract talent and build loyalty.
This doesn’t mean putting on a facade or ignoring challenges—it means embracing what makes you unique and finding moments to celebrate, even in difficult times.
Connection Requires Presence
One of the simplest but most profound lessons we’ve learned from the snack business is the importance of presence. Watching someone savor a bag of popcorn or delight in the texture of Dippin’ Dots reminds us of the beauty of being fully present in the moment.
In today’s fast-paced, hyper-digital world, presence is often overlooked. We’re glued to our screens, rushing from task to task, and multitasking through meetings. But true connection requires undivided attention.
Whether it’s a one-on-one conversation with a colleague, a presentation to a client, or a brainstorming session with your team, being fully present communicates respect and builds trust. Just as we encourage people to savor their snacks, we encourage professionals to savor their interactions.
Food as a Bridge Across Cultures and Differences
Snacks like Dippin’ Dots and Doc Popcorn are universal in their appeal. They transcend age, culture, and background, making them an ideal bridge for connection.
Similarly, food in general has a unique way of bringing people together. Sharing a meal or snack creates a neutral, welcoming space where differences fade, and commonalities emerge. At Total Snacks, we’ve seen this play out at diverse events, where people from all walks of life connect over their love of sweet and savory treats.
In the professional world, finding common ground is key to building successful relationships. Whether it’s through shared goals, mutual interests, or even a love of good food, these bridges lay the foundation for collaboration and trust.
The Power of Fun in Serious Spaces
At first glance, snacks might seem like a frivolous topic. But their very playfulness is what makes them powerful. They remind us to take a step back, breathe, and find joy in the little things.
Bringing an element of fun into professional spaces can have a transformative effect. It humanizes interactions, reduces stress, and fosters creativity. At Total Snacks, we’ve worked with companies that incorporate our snacks into their events not just as a treat but as a tool for team building and celebration.
How can you bring more fun into your work? Whether it’s a lighthearted team activity, a playful campaign, or simply infusing humor into daily interactions, fun is a powerful connector.
Building Bridges, One Snack at a Time
The lessons we’ve learned from running Total Snacks are simple yet profound: shared experiences, small gestures, nostalgia, authenticity, presence, and fun all play a role in creating meaningful connections.
Whether you’re sharing a bag of popcorn at a carnival or closing a deal in a boardroom, the same principles apply. Connection is about finding common ground, being present, and creating moments of joy and trust.
As we head into the New Year, let’s take a page from the snack world. Let’s savor the little moments, celebrate shared experiences, and remember that even in the most serious spaces, a little fun goes a long way.
At Total Snacks, we’re proud to bring people together through the simple joy of great snacks. But beyond the food, our mission is to create connections—and that’s a lesson that resonates far beyond the fairgrounds. To book your next event with us, get in contact with our catering team.
About Total Snacks
Total Snacks’ mission is simple: to always provide the highest quality snack food for people to enjoy wherever and whenever. The business began in 2015 by entrepreneurs Eleazar López Contreras and Mabe León-Ponte, a husband-and-wife team, who immediately noticed a lack of high-quality snacking options around their new home in Miami, Florida. From its humble beginnings as a single retail kiosk, the couple has worked tirelessly and creatively to bring best-in-class snack foods to the region.
Today, Total Snacks stands out as the premier provider of snack foods and catering in Miami. Its products can be found in over 300 independent outlets, and the company provides contract catering solutions to some of the largest sporting and entertainment venues in the area. Through its corporate and private catering services, Total Snacks brings smiles to thousands of people every year. Despite its success, Total Snacks has never wavered from its core mission: to offer the highest quality snack foods and the best customer service.
