Sugarfina founders can’t live without the sweet stuff. What started as an idea of sugary gift-giving turned out to be what was missing in the marketplace Co-Sugafina-founders Leslie Lyon, and Elisabeth Vezzani knew there needed to be a place where candy lovers could shop both online and in-store.
We all love some sugar now and then. Our Adventuregirl.com founder, Stefanie Michaels, is all about Hot Tamales and Chewy Sweet tarts, although she also considers herself a dark chocolate lover.
From Pink Grapefruit, Rainbow Sour Belts, Bullseyes Caramel Creams, Sour Patch Cherries, Bit-O-Honey, Sour Patch Apples to Tootsie Rolls and Black Licorice Jelly Bellys, we couldn’t help but wonder what candies these two sweet-tooth-sugar-loving founders can’t live without.
“Nostalgic Candy is my favorite because it’s like a time machine. When I eat a bullseye (caramel cream), I’m 10,” says Leslie Lyon.
“I like Tootsie Rolls so much, I think I should have considered naming one of my children-Tootsie,” laughs Elisabeth Vezanni.
Through building their sugar empire, they became the unofficial “gifting experts” and total candy pros.
We also wanted to know what they’ve learned about gifting after running a successful business geared toward sweetness and how to send something to even the pickiest candy lovers.
Here are their four guidelines for grand gifting for any occasion because, after all, who doesn’t love candy?
Follow Sugarfina’s Guidelines for Great Gifting:
1. Looks matter. Everyone wants to make a great first impression and prepare their phones for that first Instagram-able moment. We’ve found that packaging is as important to most people as what’s inside. That initial impression will stay with them long after the gift is gone, so ensure your gift is “dressed to impress.”
2. Instant Gratification (for everyone). People want things right away. Ever heard, “Why didn’t you thank me later?” Nope. Or, “I wish your birthday gift came after my birthday.”
Unlikely. Gifts that can be sent instantly (when you get that sick to your stomach—“Oh no, is that today?” feeling) can make you look like you’re totally on the ball—even when you’re not.
3. Fun, fun, and more fun. No one gets sick of a good time. The more fun you can make the gift for the receiver, the more memorable and appreciated it would be. The experience the gift provides is as necessary as the gift—(or, dare we say, even more important.)
4. Customization is Key. The key to a great gift is when your receiver thinks, “Wow! they know me.” The more you can customize a gift (or better yet, let them customize it), the more of a perfect fit and a great gift it will be.
Did you know?
Candy artists and sculptors use this medium to create beautiful, intricate works. This type of art, known as “candy sculpture,” involves molding and shaping candies into various forms and using them to create elaborate and eye-catching displays.
Some artists use various types of candy, from hard candies and gummies to chocolate and caramel, to create stunning works of art that are both beautiful and delicious.
It has become increasingly popular in recent years and can be found in everything from dessert tables at weddings to elaborate holiday displays in shopping centers.
A little history:
Candy making has a long history, with evidence of sweet confections dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and the Persians.
It is believed that the ancient Egyptians were among the first to produce candy, using honey and fruit to create sticky sweets.
Over time, confectioners evolved and became more sophisticated, leading to the development of various types of candy, each with its unique flavor and texture.
Today, this artistry is a thriving industry, with countless recipes and techniques that allow candy makers to create an endless array of delicious treats.
