made in berks
y Local Chocolatiers Discuss their Sweet Spot! Compiled by: Ellen Albright, Greater Reading Chamber
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ecently, I had the pleasure of interviewing both Mark Schlott, Executive VP of Operations/COO—RM Palmer Company, and Maria Harvey, Owner/Chocolatier—Lorah’s Handmade Chocolates, LLC. See the interviews here, and learn all about the many ways chocolate is being produced right here in our backyard!
EA: Maria, talk to us about your product, and tell us a brief history of Lorah’s Handmade Chocolates. MH: In 2016, I will celebrate my 8th year as owner, but Lorah’s Chocolates has been in business since 1970, when my great aunt, Ruth Lorah, started the business after learning the techniques of chocolate confection-making from her aunt and uncle. All of the chocolates are made from scratch, handcreamed and hand-rolled, then each piece is hand-coated, which gives our chocolates their unique taste and mouth feel.
Maria Harvey,
Owner/Chocolatier—Lorah's Handmade Chocolates, LLC
EA: I’ve sampled the chocolates—they are certainly a treat! Share with us what someone might be surprised to know about your business or product. MH: We have a chili-infused chocolate line that pairs well with wines and beer. We work with wineries and breweries, and have been very successful in these partnerships.
42 COMMERCE QUARTERLY SPRING 2016