Aug 21, 2009

Everyone Likes a Little “Something Sweet”By Kathryn Star HeartRuralNorthwest.com

Reminiscent of the old fashioned candy shops that were prevalent in the early 1900’s, Something Sweet, the new “Gourmet Gift Shop” that has recently opened its doors in Bonners Ferry, is like a welcome blast from the past.

The inviting yellow doorway leads into a pleasant space filled with a delectable assortment of items designed to tempt even the most discriminating candy lover. Small touches like the doilies that decorate the shelves, a tower of baskets, candy-patterned fabrics and the large glass showcase complete the Victorian ambiance that owner Donna McWilliams was striving for when she first decided to open a candy store. Carolyn Testa’s scrumptious artwork depicting a variety of sweets adds to the charm and quaintness.

“I wanted to own a store for a long time but couldn’t decide what to do until I was on the Internet and saw a picture that inspired me to open a candy store,” said Donna who just naturally sparkles with enthusiasm. “Candy came to me because it is comfort food. I’ve always been a nurturing personality – in fact, the kids in my old neighborhood used to call me “Mom.” I just like to feed people and take care of them.”

With a desire to create a shop similar to the famous Hickory Farms stores, Donna selected a wide assortment of what she calls, “little pick-me-ups.” Focusing on higher quality candy, Something Sweet is chock full of the very best Belgium chocolate, fudge made by the same woman who makes the fudge for Hickory Farms, organic candy, coffee, nuts, Aunt Ali’s Gourmet chocolate, peanut brittle, English toffee, caramel corn, toffee dipped pretzels, cashew toffee, caramels and lollipops made by Hammond Candies. Donna also carries all-natural lollipops that have no dyes, preservatives or additives and salt water taffy made in Salt Lake City.

Donna’s desire to provide an alternative for a “quick lunch” led her to stock items such as summer sausage, Wisconsin cheese, gourmet crackers, a wide array of mustard, Amish products such as fruit butter, peanut butter spread, salsas and barbecue sauces, huckleberry products including jams, jellies and truffles as well as gourmet cookies, Montana Grassland bread mixes and homemade chicken noodle soup mixes.

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