She said: "I think it's really important for people to understand how the chocolate is made, and why it will taste so lovely and fresh. Identical boxes of chocolates prepared for a special event If somebody has an item that is close to their hearts, we even have a machine that can make a chocolate version of that item." "The great thing about being a local shop is if somebody comes in and wants a certain kind of chocolate or filling, we can make it for them. You have to be able to see when the chocolate changes, when it has tempered nicely and when it hasn't quite tempered." Jeannette said: "To work with chocolate, you need an eye for detail. The shop offers vegan, gluten-free and sugar-free chocolates and crafts all its confectionery without artificial flavourings or additives. In addition to the quality of the finished product, a chocolatier must consider the customer's needs during every step of the process, including quality of packaging, shelf life, size and cost. Even hand-dipping ingredients into chocolate must be properly to prevent marks or air bubbles. The shop sells a variety of chocolates, including gluten-free, vegan adn sugar-free optionsĮvery step of making Ilfracombe's favourite chocolates is a precise and delicate process, taking hours to complete from start to finish. We want to offer something that is high quality, but you can buy for a loved one or your family and still feel its value for money." Covid has hit a lot of people and there isn't the money around nowadays. "You also need to consider what is affordable to people. Our packaging has more gold than other parts of the year and every box has a layer of glycine paper and padding on top so you can put them in the post and they will be received in good condition." She added: "At Christmas, you need to think about what customers are looking for. We also used to offer samples for customers, but now we have to make sure there is minimal contact with things.”
“It means at the moment, we still have a good range, but we’ve had to cut back on quite a lot so we can do a higher turnaround. Easter and Christmas are where we make 40% of our business - and we’ve missed two Easters and a Christmas. She said: “With COVID, we have been locked down during our busiest times of the year. Read more: School-run parents in North Devon risking their lives at perilous crossing Jeannette Cann has owned Ilfracombe Chocolate Emporium on High Street for four years and said the business is adapting to create the best experience for its customers this Christmas. Ilfracombe Chocolate Emporium, previously Walkers Chocolate Emporium, has been forced to close several times since March 2020, but has remained dedicated to engaging and informing customers on the art of chocolate making. An award-winning chocolatier is treating the people of North Devon this Christmas after a difficult two years.