by Jess Catherine, Product Department Asst.
I met Megan Hile (on the left in the photo) shortly before she began a Community Supported Chocolate business, similar to a farm that operates a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture), where customers pay a fee for a weekly, biweekly, or monthly box of produce. She had this chocolate share, and I thought it was so cool. We both had dreams of owning a small business: I needed to write a business plan and she was determined to open a brick and mortar shop. We both found WWBIC—Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corporation. It was a great way for us to get our business plans complete and learn some valuable skills about the whole process.
I had the opportunity to catch up with one of Madison’s award-winning chocolatiers just after the new year. Megan is the founder and owner of Madison Chocolate Company. You can find them among our selection of local chocolates at all three of our locations!
When did you know you wanted to be a chocolatier? Was it a trip or experience you had and how did you get started?
I first knew I wanted to be a chocolatier in 2012. Two years prior I began studying the art of chocolate work and after an internship in Ecuador working with cacao, I came back ready to make a career change. I was taken with how chocolate is a blend of science and art. To work with chocolate, you must be precise, however also lean into your creative side. It was a chance for me to express my creative side and also run a small business. I began with a CSC—Community Supported Chocolate—in 2012. I had seasonal subscription boxes: three months in the fall and spring as well as holiday boxes. I do not remember how people found me. I do know that to this day, 12 years later, those same clients are still amazing supporters of Madison Chocolate Company.
WWBIC is a statewide program that opens the doors of opportunity by providing underserved individuals who are interested in starting, strengthening or expanding businesses with access to critical resources such as responsible financial products and quality business and financial training.
What was it like working out of FEED Kitchens?
I began working in RP’s Pasta kitchen and then transitioned into the FEED Kitchens. I was one of the first tenants and they really worked with me to help me get started. It was great to have extra space and also meet amazing other small producers here in Madison. Many of us have since moved into our own brick and mortar.
When did you know it was time to open your own brick and mortar store? You have a second location? What is the difference between the two, if any?
I knew it was time to open a brick and mortar as I was ready to take the risk. Our first shop opened on the corner of Monroe Street and Glenway in spring of 2017. We just opened up our second location at 552 Odana Road. Both share similar elements and are also unique. We pride ourselves in creating creative, joyful community spaces. Both are small cafes that serve specialty coffee and gluten-free treats. There is a lot of attention to detail which helps create a unique experience for every person that walks through our door. At Odana we have three times the production space and are growing our gluten-free bakery program for our cafe. We have come a long way from a one person business. Currently MCC has over 35 amazing employees that help staff both cafes, bakery, and chocolate production.
What’s the most popular product (of what we sell)?
For our Co-op clients, they LOVE The London Chew and our BeTwixed Bar. The curry coconut and caramel of The London Chew wins people over all the time.
What is your personal favorite?
My personal favorite… always a tough question. Our truffles are absolutely amazing, and when I want a boost or moment of peace and quiet, I turn to any of our truffle flavors. Caramels are always wonderful as well and our liquid Passion Fruit Caramel is a Good Food Award winner; this hits the spot of sweet and tart.
Any new products on the horizon?
Yes, we have two new truffle flavors we hope to launch yet this winter…. hopefully one for Valentine’s Day!
