In the quaint town of Olds, there’s a bakery that has become a beloved part of the local community. Cocoa Tree, owned by Candice and her sister, has flourished over the years, offering delectable treats that combine artistry and passion for quality ingredients. From their humble beginnings in a basement kitchen to a bustling storefront, Cocoa Tree has grown into a go-to destination for cakes, cupcakes, and more. However, what truly sets this bakery apart is its commitment to ethical sourcing and community engagement.
Embracing Artistry and Nature
Candice, the creative force behind Cocoa Tree, discovered her love for cake decorating during her time at a local Co-op. Her artistic talent and determination led her to transform her passion into a business. With a desire to expand beyond cakes and incorporate a wider range of treats, Candice and her sister decided to rebrand as Cocoa Tree. The name perfectly encapsulates their philosophy of embracing nature and creating delicious delights using natural ingredients.
A Journey Towards Fair Trade
While Cocoa Tree initially focused on creating irresistible treats, their perspective shifted after attending a chocolate presentation by the Fair Trade Committee in the town. This eye-opening experience inspired Candice and her sister to evaluate their ingredient choices and prioritize fair trade sourcing. With a newfound dedication to ethical practices, they began incorporating fair trade ingredients into their products, ensuring that their customers enjoy guilt-free indulgence.
Supporting Local, Sourcing Ethically
Cocoa Tree understands the importance of supporting local businesses and farmers. While they strive to collaborate with nearby suppliers, certain ingredients like sugar and cocoa are sourced from ethical sources beyond the region. Candice acknowledges the significance of promoting local farmers and aims to incorporate local ingredients whenever possible. However, when local options are limited, she ensures that the ingredients she chooses align with their commitment to ethical sourcing.
Delicious Offerings and Community Connection
Cocoa Tree’s menu boasts an array of mouthwatering treats that have won the hearts of locals and visitors alike. While their cupcakes remain a customer favorite, their selection has expanded to include scones, cookies, cinnamon buns, and custom-made cakes for special occasions. Candice takes pride in being a part of the community and cherishes the connections she has built over the years. From baking birthday cakes for children as they grow up to being a trusted presence during milestone events, Cocoa Tree has become an integral part of Rainier’s close-knit community.
Competition and Continued Growth
Although a few bakeries have sprung up in Olds over the years, Cocoa Tree has solidified it’s place as a beloved local eatery, with recognitions like “Business of the Year” from the Olds Chamber of Commerce. Their commitment to quality, personalized service, and community involvement has helped them withstand competition and build a loyal customer base. Candice believes that their special ingredients are not just fair trade products but also the warmth, smiles, and community spirit they infuse into every creation.
Looking Ahead
When asked about the future, Candice envisions Cocoa Tree expanding its online presence and potentially offering subscription services for cookies and other treats. However, as she focuses on starting a family, she acknowledges that these plans may take time to materialize. Nevertheless, she is grateful for the success of her online store, which has been a valuable asset, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, offering customers the convenience of pre-ordering and pickup.
Spreading Awareness of Fair Trade
Candice understands the importance of raising awareness about fair trade practices and the ethical concerns surrounding the food industry. She hopes that her bakery serves as a reminder for customers to consider the origins of the products they consume and make conscious choices. By advocating for fair trade and sourcing ethically, Cocoa Tree strives to create a positive impact
