Sweet addition coming to downtown Sandusky

SANDUSKY — A new handcrafted chocolate shop is soon opening in downtown Sandusky. Great Lakes Chocolate — coming to the Marketplace Downtown, 133 E. Market St., Sandusky — will celebrate its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, accompanied by the Greater Sandusky Partnership, during its first operational weekend, March 7-8. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will occur in conjunction with a private preview event for partners and supporters. The shop, meanwhile, will open to the public that weekend: • 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, March 7 • 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, March 8 Great Lakes Chocolate will feature handmade chocolates, caramels, a rotating selection of bonbons, candied nuts and other confections produced in-house. The production space is visible from the retail area, allowing customers to observe the chocolate-making process. "This has been something we have talked about for a few years," co-owner Mike Hicks said. "My sister was a chocolatier for about a decade, and, as we traveled to other Great Lakes coastal towns, shops like this were staples in those cities and towns. We felt it was something Sandusky was missing." Also co-owned by Ryan Henry, this expands their presence within the Marketplace, joining their existing ventures of Henry's Shoppes and Wild Thistle. "It provides a different experience and adds another shopping destination within the Marketplace," Hicks said. Great Lakes Chocolate will produce most of its offerings on-site, creating an interactive retail experience. Early practice batches have already generated enthusiasm, particularly for the shop's caramels. "We are going to be making most of what we sell in-house," Henry said. "Those who come in will be able to see the full production space, and possibly us making them." The owners selected downtown Sandusky for its continued growth and energy. "We love being downtown and being a part of the continued growth of the city," Henry said. Patrick Shepherd, the partnership's member services director, said the addition of Great Lakes Chocolate reflects the ongoing vibrancy of the downtown business district. "Downtown Sandusky continues to evolve as a destination for shopping, dining and unique local experiences," Shepherd said. "Great Lakes Chocolate will draw shoppers to the retail scene inside the Marketplace and give both visitors and the local community another reason to spend time downtown. We are fortunate Ryan and Mike have chosen to increase their investment in Sandusky." The shop's opening also coincides with the start of Sandusky Restaurant Week, taking place March 5-15. Visitors enjoying participating downtown restaurants are encouraged to stop by Great Lakes Chocolate for a sweet treat before or after dining. Looking ahead, the owners hope the shop becomes a long-term fixture in the district. "It would be really nice to see it become a staple destination in downtown Sandusky," Henry said. "We are looking forward to welcoming the community that has been so supportive into our new space." People can learn more by visiting Facebook and searching for "Great Lakes Chocolate."