It’s that time of year again, when love is in the air, and chocolate is on everyone’s mind. CocoAndré, a beloved female-owned chocolate shop in Dallas, is preparing for their 15th Valentine’s Day in business. This year, however, they are facing unique challenges amidst soaring cocoa prices. But that hasn’t stopped Andrea Pedraza and Cindy Pedraza, the dynamic mother-daughter duo behind the chocolatier, from delivering sweet treats to their loyal customers.
A Sweet Tradition in Dallas
Located in the heart of Dallas, CocoAndré Chocolatier has become a staple in the local community over the past 15 years. Andrea and Cindy Pedraza have poured their hearts and souls into their business, creating delectable chocolates that have captured the hearts of their customers. As they gear up for Valentine’s Day, the busiest time of the year for any chocolatier, the Pedrazas are facing a new obstacle – the rising cost of cocoa.
In a recent interview with WFAA, Cindy Pedraza shared her concerns about the skyrocketing prices of cocoa and how it has forced them to rethink their business strategy. Despite the financial challenges, the Pedrazas are determined to maintain the quality of their handcrafted chocolates while keeping them affordable for their customers. It’s a delicate balancing act that requires creativity and resourcefulness, qualities that the Pedrazas have in spades.
Spreading Love, One Chocolate at a Time
For Andrea Pedraza, the true joy of their craft lies in the smiles and delight on their customers’ faces. Each chocolate creation is a labor of love, meticulously crafted to perfection. Customers like Tray Welch, who stopped by the shop to pick up Valentine’s gifts for his wife, are a testament to the Pedrazas’ dedication to their craft. Welch, who has been married for 28 years, wanted to go all out this year and opted for the biggest teddy bear available to surprise his wife.
As Andrea Pedraza lovingly packages Welch’s gifts, she reflects on the universal appeal of their chocolates. “Nobody returns this, and nobody says it doesn’t fit,” she remarks with a smile. It’s moments like these that make all the hard work and long hours worth it for the Pedrazas. Despite the stress of the holiday rush and the uncertainty of the current economic climate, they find solace in the joy they bring to their customers’ lives.
As Valentine’s Day approaches, CocoAndré Chocolatier is gearing up for a busy day of fulfilling orders and spreading love through their chocolates. The shop will be open on Valentine’s Day, but the Pedrazas caution that popular flavors may sell out quickly. So, if you’re looking to surprise your loved ones with a box of decadent chocolates, be sure to stop by early to secure your sweet treats.
In the midst of rising cocoa prices and economic uncertainties, Andrea Pedraza and Cindy Pedraza remain committed to their craft and their customers. For them, it’s not just about selling chocolates – it’s about creating moments of joy and celebration for the people who walk through their doors. As they celebrate their 15th Valentine’s Day in business, the Pedrazas continue to embody the true spirit of love and dedication that defines CocoAndré Chocolatier.
