New store in downtown New London
By John Faucher
Candy connoisseurs will find a ‘sweet’ getaway at 311 S. Pearl St., New London.
A newly opened business called Cozy n’ Sweet Pop-up Candy Shoppe LLC is located across the street from the New London Public Library, next to the Pantry Cafe.
Sixteen year-old Alaena Wolf, a junior at New London High School. owns and operates the business when she’s not busy in classes, at meetings or on the high school tennis courts and dance team floor.
Wolf purchased the building this past summer with the help and guidance of her father. She describes her father as “selfless, strong, talented and one of the most inspiring people in her life.”
With her father’s encouragement and the help of many friends, Wolf began renovating the old laundry mat into a storefront.
Wolf said she wanted to create a place for families and friends to enjoy life.
“I started my business with the vision of the happiness that I felt from other candy stores I have visited, and I wanted to create that for my community,” said Wolf.
Cozy n’ Sweets officially opened in November, just in time for the holiday season.
Because of COVID-19 and Wolf’s rigorous schedule the store is open with limited hours on weekdays and weekends during the school year.
Cozy n’ Sweet offers an old time candy store atmosphere with a large selection of bulk hard candies, chewable soft gummies, taffy candies, fine chocolates and an assortment of unique pre-packaged brands you can’t find on the shelves of other stores.
Wolf said in addition to a sweet tooth and a love for the ‘friendly candy store’ atmosphere, she also loves school and extracurricular club activities.
“I wanted to be able to tie my school in with the store. So I will be offering student discounts and advertising my DECA chapter,” said Wolf.
She said she’s learned a tremendous amount of knowledge through her involvement with DECA and other school clubs.
“I would like to thank all of my teachers, friends, family, and community members for their support,” said Wolf.
“This is one of the most amazing adventures and challenges I have ever pursued.
I hope to be an inspiration to the younger members of the community and let them know that they can achieve their goals as well. I want my presence to be a positive light that creates a sense of togetherness and brings a focus to the colorful downtown community,” Wolf said.
Even with limited hours the shop was busy with first-time customers during the Christmas season.
Wolf created an assortment of gift arrangements and offered a stocking sale.
Gift arrangements for business events, family celebrations and raffle prizes are available year-round.
Customers can bring in their own mason jars or purchase one from the store for $2 to create their own customized gift jars as well.
Wolf said she is looking forward to the summer months when she can open the store for extended hours.