My name is Simone, and I’m the new owner of Candyland Crafts, a baking and candy supply store that has been part of the community since 1981.

I took over this business with the goal of preserving what people love about it while growing it into something even more special. Candyland Crafts has helped generations of families, home bakers, and small businesses create cakes, chocolates, and memories for life’s biggest moments.

One of the most meaningful parts of this journey is that our manager had her very first birthday party in this store decades ago. Today, she helps run it. That’s the kind of place this is. That is the type of business I wanted to own.

Shortly after taking ownership, I suffered a major stroke that left me hospitalized for three months. It's been over a year, and now I can shakily walk again but still struggle to use my right hand. It has taken a shockingly mighty toll.

On top of he stroke, we uncovered financial issues tied to the previous ownership that were not visible at the time of purchase. As a result, we are now dealing with significant legal and recovery costs, along with missing funds that directly impact the business.

We are actively working to resolve the health, legal and financial issues, but the financial burden is real and growing.

We are raising $50,000 to:

• Cover ongoing legal and health recovery expenses. This includes a shocking amount of medical bills as well as legal expenses.

• Stabilize and protect the business

• Continue operating without disruption

• Expand our classes and in-store experiences

This support will allow us to move forward, not backward, and continue building something that serves our customers and community for years to come.