Today we’d like to introduce you to Tessa LeViere.
Tessa, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
One day while scrolling on Facebook, I came across a small business for sale that was essentially a candy shop and I just couldn’t pass it up. I could immediately see how special it could become. I reached out, checked out the space, and instantly knew this was the path I wanted to take.
I fell in love with the idea of creating a place that simply makes people happy. That’s exactly what happens when someone walks through the door.. everyone feels like a kid in a candy store. From nostalgic favorites to viral trending treats, there’s truly something for every age. At the end of the day, I love creating a space where people can smile, feel joy, and make new childhood memories—both reliving the old ones and creating new ones to carry forward.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Like many small business owners, I also started from pretty much nothing. Figuring out what people wanted, what would sell, and how to build a base of regular customers took time and trial and error.
My biggest challenge came just this February when a water pipe burst in the bathroom. In an attempt to help, the heat was turned up and when I walked in the next day, the store felt like a sauna. Nearly all of my candy had melted or expanded, and I had to throw everything away. It was devastating.
It took about a month to get back on my feet. My husband and I drove to Altoona to restock from a candy warehouse, determined to rebuild. Just when things started to feel normal again, the company I rented a fridge from asked for it back since I hadn’t been able to place orders while the shop was closed—so I had to invest in a new fridge as well.
It truly felt like one thing after another, but every challenge has made me stronger, more determined, and even more proud of how far this business has come.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about The Grand Candy Shop ?
The Grand Candy Shop is a small, local woman owned candy and specialty treat shop focused on creating joy, nostalgia, and memorable experiences for all ages. We specialize in a carefully curated mix of nostalgic childhood favorites, viral and trending candies, and unique finds you don’t typically see in big box stores.
What truly sets us apart is the experience. We want every person who walks through our doors to feel like a kid in a candy store whether they’re rediscovering a favorite from their childhood or trying something new for the first time. Beyond candy, we also offer creative touches like build-your-own boba, local freeze dried, seasonal collections, and collaborations with other local businesses whenever possible.
I’m most proud of the sense of community we’ve built. The shop isn’t just about sweets it’s about connection, fun, and creating moments that people remember. We’re a place families visit together, friends stop into for a treat, and customers return to because they feel welcomed and excited every time.
I want readers to know that The Grand Candy Shop is about more than candy. It’s about happiness, nostalgia, and making new childhood memories—one sweet moment at a time.
What are your plans for the future?
We’re very excited to continue growing into the events including weddings, birthday parties, bachelorette parties, and other celebrations. Through custom candy bars or our mobile candy cart, we’re able to bring the fun directly to our customers!
Events are a big part of our future because they allow us to be part of people’s most special moments. We love creating unique, memorable experiences while expanding our reach beyond the storefront and continuing to grow The Grand Candy Shop as a brand known for creativity, joy, and unforgettable experiences.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_grand_candy_shop?igsh=dXB0MW1kOW5qNTd1&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/18N8LhycJH/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@grandcandyshop?si=7RW36V1RdoEdxmzF
