Thanks for the fantastic suggestions guys! I’m looking into some of these suggestions for future use…
As for right now, I found this tutorial for building your own 3D particle generator here on the Cow already. Due to time constraints, and the hassle of getting my company to sign off on software purchases, I’m modifying these existing assets (code and image) to look a bit more realistic and “chincy”. I think I can achieve what I’m looking for, even with my limited knowledge of these AE features.
Thanks again for all the responses!