Amy’s Story
When I heard the calling to become a chocolatier, I made a pilgrimage back to Michigan for a refresher course in everything chocolate with the person who taught me all I know - my mother. In order to fill in the blanks of my knowledge on sugary treats and learn all the old family recipes, we took a trip to the home town chocolate shop with a huge list . . . fresh-roasted nuts, tubs of butter, 50 pounds of bulk assorted chocolates. Being surrounded by such delicious aromas and friendly people was incredibly inspiring. I knew then that chocolate was going to be my calling in life and that it would help define my mission . . . handcrafting goodies to feed the peoples' hungry souls!
On a limited basis I began creating and sharing my treats with family and friends. With their encouragement I started selling my goods at farmers' markets and a variety of other events. People seemed to love my creations and I developed a loyal following. I began to think about opening a chocolate shop of my own... but where? How?
One day while out shopping, a storefront jumped out at me. It was quaint and perfect for what I wanted to create. But then what? The stress of starting a business sets in. How could I afford it? How could I pull it all together? Once I calmed down, I started to make some inquiries and my local banker stepped up to help! He guided me to the Small Business Association and to a grant program for Kitsap development. (I discovered that government grants really do exist!)
I was amazed people believed in my dream and with the help of friends, family, businesses, and great customers I opened the doors to Amy's Decadent Chocolates on February 3, 2006 and business has been rapidly increasing ever since. It is my sincere hope that I can continue to make all my chocolatey treats based on Mom's old recipes for many years to come. When I see the smiles on my customers' faces, I like to think that feeding those hungry souls is my own small contribution to making the world a better place.
I am glad you have found your way to Amy's Decadent Chocolates and I hope you will think of my treats when you need a lift (and that I will be able to exceed your expectations for many years to come).
