How to Make Money Selling Chocolate

Every year around Christmas, Valentine’s Day and Easter I make chocolate candy for my co-workers to give as a unique gifts. I’ve got a good product, and a good system, plus word of mouth to promote my goods. Also, I work at a larger corporation so there a lot of folks around to sell to. It’s very easy for me to do this – I have built up a mold collection of over 300 molds that are not holiday specific. Plus, candy making is my hobby – some people try to make their own candy and they don’t enjoy it, or they burn the chocolate, or they don’t have the time. This is my hobby – so if I make enough to cover my product and a little extra mad money, it’s worth my time. This article can give you some tips on how to make money selling chocolate. It could turn into a full time opportunity for you. Best of luck in your endeavors.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Kitchen
• Chocolate
• Microwave
• Candy Making Supplies
• Ambition
• Storage Space

1. This was later assembled into a basket for Carolina fans in my husbands' office. 1 – TRY IT, FOR FUN – I have linked my article on how to make chocolate candy for more details, but basically buy your chocolate (local craft stores sell them), melt it (in the microwave for simplicity), pour it (in your molds), roll your sticks in the chocolate, make sure there are no air bubbles and place in the freezer for 15 minutes to set.
   
   Surprise your co-workers, child’s class, a sick friend, your dog groomer, book club, anyone.
2. Thank You for a dentists office, the glare may prevent you from seeing the chocolate teeth. 2 – IF YOU LIKE IT – Start making little arrangements for your friends birthdays, teacher appreciation, a fundraiser. Most of my pails/buckets/tins come from a local dollar store. I stick the lollipop sticks in a green Styrofoam and place shredded paper to complement the container or candy. I also buy lollipop trees and stick it full of suckers.
3. Lilly Pad for a Baby Shower with a Frog / Garden Theme 3 – MARKET IT – Do people like your candy? Tell them you would be happy to make an arrangement for them to give as a gift. Set your price. I know about how much it costs me to make each lollipop. Costs may vary so figure out your profit margin. If people like what they see they may ask you to do baby showers, weddings, retirement parties – but sometimes you have to say, “I’ve got a unique idea for your celebration.” If you’re good at it, don’t be afraid to promote your product. The 3 major holidays for candy (for me) are: Valentines Day (promote last week of January, when folks fall off the new year/new diet mentality), Easter (promote 3 weeks before), Christmas (promote after Thanksgiving).
4. Giant Easter Basket 4 – RECORD IT – I have a list of people that bought candy from me and when I’m doing something new, I share it with them. The Easter before last I made baskets and spelled out names of the children, this year I referred to this list and sent them all a note – “Dear Bob, Last year you purchased 3 Easter baskets from me for Amelia, Amanda and Aidan. Would you like to surprise them again this year? I have some new molds and it will be different. If you place your order by 2/29 I will give you a $1 discount per basket.” I sold about 50 baskets this year because I had the word out early to my old customers and was able to accept new customers.
5. 5 – INVENTORY MANAGEMENT – My molds are listed on a spreadsheet, in an elaborate filing system, so I can find them on a minutes notice. People always want chocolate for a last minute birthday gift. I also keep 2 pounds of milk chocolate on hand, 2 pounds of white chocolate, sticks and bags. My candy is tied up with curling ribbon, and I bought a lot of that when it was on sale at a local craft store for $1 / spool. I keep the chocolates rotated because it can get icky. Usually every 3 months I replenish product. If you are around the 3 holidays, don’t be afraid to make extra candy – you can always give it as a gift. The more organized you are, the better.
6. 6 – TAKE PICTURES – Take pictures of your creations and show them off. I tell people I make chocolate candy, but when I show them my creations… it makes a big difference.
7. 7 – TRY NEW THINGS – Add some flavor to your chocolate, crunch up some cookies and put it in chocolate. Keep it interesting. Chocolate dipped spoons are very easy.
8. 8 – A HOBBY / A CAREER? – Are you good at this? Do people tell you should do it full time? Can you make this product in your home (health rules must be followed before you can sell to local farmer markets, stores, etc.) Consider the costs. Show off your product to local gift basket companies or specialty stores.

Tips & Warnings

• Buy supplies like bags and sticks when they are on sale at craft stores.
• Don't be afraid to promote you or your product.
• Taste tests are fun, and necessary - make sure you are selling good product.
• View my other articles for instructions on how to make candy.
• Chocolate is dangerous to dogs.
• Make sure you are following local health rules if you do sell to the public.
• Follow all rules reporting for income.
• Keep lotion in the kitchen. You will constantly be washing your hands.