The Hershey’s Kisses, a beloved American chocolate treat, has been a staple in many households for over a century. One of the most distinctive features of these bite-sized chocolates is their iconic wrapper. The wrapper of a Hershey’s Kisses is more than just a piece of paper or foil; it’s a symbol of the brand’s rich history, innovative design, and commitment to quality. In this article, we’ll delve into the fascinating story behind the wrapper of a Hershey’s Kisses, exploring its evolution, design, and cultural significance.
A Brief History of Hershey’s Kisses
Before we dive into the wrapper, let’s take a brief look at the history of Hershey’s Kisses. The chocolate drops were first introduced in 1907 by Milton S. Hershey, the founder of the Lancaster Caramel Company. Initially called “Hershey’s Drops,” they were later renamed “Kisses” in 1909. The name “Kisses” was reportedly inspired by the sound of the chocolate being dropped onto the conveyor belt during the manufacturing process.
The Evolution of the Wrapper
The wrapper of a Hershey’s Kisses has undergone several transformations since its inception. Here’s a brief overview of the major changes:
Early Years (1907-1920s)
In the early years, Hershey’s Kisses were wrapped in a simple paper wrapper with a wax coating to prevent the chocolate from melting. The wrapper featured the Hershey’s logo and the words “Hershey’s Drops” or “Hershey’s Kisses.”
Introduction of Foil Wrapping (1920s-1960s)
In the 1920s, Hershey’s began using foil wrapping to replace the paper wrapper. The foil wrapper was more durable and helped to preserve the chocolate’s freshness. The design of the wrapper remained relatively simple, with the Hershey’s logo and the words “Hershey’s Kisses” printed on the foil.
Modern Design (1960s-Present)
In the 1960s, Hershey’s introduced the iconic wrapper design that we know and love today. The wrapper features a distinctive shape, with a pointed top and a flat bottom. The design includes the Hershey’s logo, the words “Hershey’s Kisses,” and a pattern of tiny flags or other designs. The wrapper is made of a combination of paper and foil, with a wax coating to prevent the chocolate from melting.
The Design of the Wrapper
The design of the wrapper is an integral part of the Hershey’s Kisses brand identity. The wrapper is designed to be visually appealing, with a distinctive shape and color scheme. Here are some key elements of the wrapper design:
Color Scheme
The wrapper features a distinctive color scheme, with a combination of silver, gold, and brown. The silver and gold colors are used for the Hershey’s logo and the words “Hershey’s Kisses,” while the brown color is used for the background.
Pattern Design
The wrapper features a pattern of tiny flags or other designs, which adds a touch of whimsy and fun to the design. The pattern is designed to be visually appealing and to help the wrapper stand out on store shelves.
Shape and Size
The wrapper is designed to be compact and easy to hold, with a pointed top and a flat bottom. The shape and size of the wrapper are carefully designed to fit snugly around the chocolate drop, preventing it from melting or breaking.
Cultural Significance of the Wrapper
The wrapper of a Hershey’s Kisses is more than just a piece of paper or foil; it’s a cultural icon. The wrapper has been featured in numerous advertisements, artworks, and collectibles over the years. Here are some examples of the cultural significance of the wrapper:
Advertising and Marketing
The wrapper has been featured prominently in Hershey’s advertising and marketing campaigns over the years. The iconic design of the wrapper has been used in numerous print and television ads, helping to establish the brand as a leader in the chocolate industry.
Art and Collectibles
The wrapper has been featured in numerous artworks and collectibles, including paintings, sculptures, and limited-edition prints. The wrapper has also been used as a design element in various products, such as mugs, t-shirts, and keychains.
Pop Culture References
The wrapper has been referenced in numerous pop culture icons, including films, television shows, and music videos. The wrapper has been used as a symbol of American culture and nostalgia, evoking memories of childhood and happy times.
Fun Facts About the Wrapper
Here are some fun facts about the wrapper of a Hershey’s Kisses:
- The wrapper is made of a combination of paper and foil, with a wax coating to prevent the chocolate from melting.
- The wrapper is designed to be compact and easy to hold, with a pointed top and a flat bottom.
- The wrapper features a distinctive pattern of tiny flags or other designs, which adds a touch of whimsy and fun to the design.
- The wrapper has been featured in numerous advertisements, artworks, and collectibles over the years.
- The wrapper is a cultural icon, symbolizing American culture and nostalgia.
Conclusion
The wrapper of a Hershey’s Kisses is an iconic symbol of American culture and nostalgia. The wrapper’s design, shape, and size are carefully crafted to be visually appealing and to help the chocolate drop stand out on store shelves. The wrapper has been featured in numerous advertisements, artworks, and collectibles over the years, cementing its place in popular culture. Whether you’re a chocolate lover or a design enthusiast, the wrapper of a Hershey’s Kisses is sure to delight and inspire.
| Year | Wrapper Design | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1907-1920s | Paper wrapper with wax coating | Simple design featuring the Hershey’s logo and the words “Hershey’s Drops” or “Hershey’s Kisses.” |
| 1920s-1960s | Foil wrapping | More durable than paper wrapper, with a simple design featuring the Hershey’s logo and the words “Hershey’s Kisses.” |
| 1960s-Present | Modern design | Distinctive shape and color scheme, featuring the Hershey’s logo, the words “Hershey’s Kisses,” and a pattern of tiny flags or other designs. |
- The wrapper is made of a combination of paper and foil, with a wax coating to prevent the chocolate from melting.
- The wrapper is designed to be compact and easy to hold, with a pointed top and a flat bottom.
- The wrapper features a distinctive pattern of tiny flags or other designs, which adds a touch of whimsy and fun to the design.
- The wrapper has been featured in numerous advertisements, artworks, and collectibles over the years.
- The wrapper is a cultural icon, symbolizing American culture and nostalgia.
What is the origin of the iconic Hershey’s Kisses wrapper?
The iconic Hershey’s Kisses wrapper has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. The original wrapper was designed by Milton Hershey himself, the founder of the Hershey Chocolate Company. The first wrappers were made of foil and featured a simple, yet elegant design that included the Hershey’s logo and the words “Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Drops.” Over time, the design has undergone several changes, but the basic concept has remained the same.
The current wrapper design, which features a distinctive silver and brown color scheme, was introduced in the 1960s. The wrapper’s unique shape and design have become synonymous with the Hershey’s brand, and it is widely recognized as one of the most iconic packaging designs in the world. The wrapper’s design has been tweaked over the years to include various seasonal and limited-edition designs, but the classic silver and brown design remains the most iconic and beloved.
What is the significance of the Hershey’s Kisses wrapper in American culture?
The Hershey’s Kisses wrapper has become an integral part of American culture, symbolizing love, affection, and nostalgia. The wrapper’s iconic design has been featured in countless films, television shows, and advertisements, and it has become a cultural reference point. The wrapper’s association with romance and love has made it a popular choice for Valentine’s Day and other romantic occasions.
The Hershey’s Kisses wrapper has also become a symbol of American nostalgia, evoking memories of childhood and simpler times. The wrapper’s design has remained largely unchanged over the years, which has helped to create a sense of continuity and tradition. The wrapper’s significance extends beyond its association with the Hershey’s brand, representing a broader cultural phenomenon that transcends the world of chocolate and candy.
How has the Hershey’s Kisses wrapper design changed over the years?
The Hershey’s Kisses wrapper design has undergone several changes since its introduction in the early 20th century. The original wrapper featured a simple, foil design with the Hershey’s logo and the words “Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Drops.” In the 1920s, the wrapper was updated to include a paper wrapper with a wax coating, which helped to preserve the chocolate and extend its shelf life.
In the 1960s, the wrapper was redesigned to feature the distinctive silver and brown color scheme that is still used today. The wrapper’s design has been tweaked over the years to include various seasonal and limited-edition designs, such as holiday-themed wrappers and special edition designs for events like the Olympics. Despite these changes, the classic silver and brown design remains the most iconic and beloved.
What is the process of creating a Hershey’s Kisses wrapper?
The process of creating a Hershey’s Kisses wrapper involves several steps, from design to production. The design process typically begins with a concept or theme, which is then developed into a prototype. The prototype is reviewed and refined until a final design is approved.
Once the design is finalized, the wrapper is produced using a combination of foil and paper. The foil is stamped with the Hershey’s logo and other design elements, while the paper is printed with the wrapper’s design. The foil and paper are then combined and wrapped around the chocolate, creating the iconic Hershey’s Kisses wrapper. The entire process, from design to production, is carefully managed to ensure that the wrapper meets the highest standards of quality and consistency.
Can I collect Hershey’s Kisses wrappers?
Yes, Hershey’s Kisses wrappers can be collected, and many people enjoy collecting them as a hobby. There are several ways to collect Hershey’s Kisses wrappers, including saving wrappers from special occasions or events, collecting limited-edition wrappers, or trading wrappers with other collectors.
Hershey’s Kisses wrappers can be collected in a variety of ways, including in albums or scrapbooks, in frames or shadow boxes, or even in decorative jars or containers. Some collectors also enjoy trading wrappers with other collectors or searching for rare or hard-to-find wrappers. Whether you’re a casual collector or a serious enthusiast, collecting Hershey’s Kisses wrappers can be a fun and rewarding hobby.
Are Hershey’s Kisses wrappers recyclable?
Hershey’s Kisses wrappers are made from a combination of foil and paper, which can make them difficult to recycle. However, many communities have programs in place to recycle mixed materials like foil and paper. Check with your local recycling program to see if they accept Hershey’s Kisses wrappers.
In addition to recycling, Hershey’s has also implemented several sustainability initiatives aimed at reducing waste and minimizing the company’s environmental impact. These initiatives include using recycled materials in packaging, reducing energy consumption, and implementing sustainable sourcing practices. By recycling your Hershey’s Kisses wrappers and supporting sustainable practices, you can help reduce waste and minimize the environmental impact of your favorite treats.
Can I customize my own Hershey’s Kisses wrapper?
Yes, it is possible to customize your own Hershey’s Kisses wrapper. Hershey’s offers a variety of customization options, including personalized wrappers for special occasions like weddings and birthdays. You can also create your own custom wrapper using a variety of online tools and templates.
To create a custom wrapper, simply design your wrapper using a computer or mobile device, then upload your design to the Hershey’s website or a third-party printing service. The wrapper will be printed and shipped to you, ready to be wrapped around your favorite Hershey’s Kisses. Custom wrappers make a great way to add a personal touch to gifts, parties, and other special occasions.