Happy Valentine’s Day from Choose New Jersey! Did you know that New Jersey is a confectionery capital? Candy giant Mars Wrigley produces millions of M&Ms each year from its Hackettstown, NJ factory. In fact, Mars Wrigley will soon be expanding its presence in the State by opening a second U.S. headquarters in Newark, NJ, bringing nearly 500 jobs to the city. Mondelez International, one of largest global snack companies, also has significant operations in New Jersey, and produces chocolate brands such as Cadbury, Milka and Toblerone. In addition to beloved candy brands, New Jersey is also home to exceptional small businesses crafting gourmet chocolates as a labor of love. Stop by these neighborhood chocolatiers to find the perfect sweets for your sweetheart or sweet tooth!

DAVID BRADLEY CHOCOLATE COVERED STRAWBERRIES

Take a bite out of a decadent white chocolate-covered fresh strawberry with milk chocolate drizzle for a little taste of heaven.

David Bradley, owned and operated by the Hicks family, manufactures and sells more than 150,000 pounds of chocolate per year to over 500 businesses in the U.S. Many of the company’s products are handmade in its Windsor, NJ factory.

ENJOU CHOCOLAT HEART-SHAPED BOX OF CHOCOLATES

It will be hard to choose which piece to eat first from this classic Valentine’s giftbox of assorted chocolates filled with rich ganache and creamy caramel.

Owner Wendy Taffet has been producing fine chocolates since 1983 from her Morristown, NJ storefront and has received national recognition, including an exclusive feature on an episode of Food Nation with Bobby Flay.

CHOCODIEM DARK CHOCOLATE TRUFFLES

These hand-painted gourmet dark chocolate truffles are (almost) too beautiful to eat!

Based in Clinton, NJ, Chocodiem has been named one of the 10 best chocolatiers in North America by the Institute of Culinary Education. Owner Jean-Paul Hepp takes pride in his authentic Belgian artisan confections, using the highest quality cacao and locally-sourced ingredients from New Jersey farms, including honey, dairy and fruit.

…and don’t forget flowers!

FLOWERS FROM THE FARM NJ ROSE BOUQUET

A dozen red roses is the ultimate romantic gesture.

Flowers from the Farm NJ is a farm and florist shop located in Farmingdale, NJ. Owner Dana Vargo uses sustainable practices to bring fresh cut seasonal flowers from farm to vase.

GREAT FOOD COMPANIES CHOOSE NEW JERSEY!