Stop by Candinas Chocolatier on the eve of Valentine’s Day, and you might be surprised to find founder Markus Candinas at the counter, happily sharing a sample of his award-winning confections.

Markus learned his trade in a three-year apprenticeship program in Switzerland…. Although some might say with a name like “Candinas” it was Markus’ destiny to start a chocolate factory. In reality it was his passion for fine foods, and in particular for all things sweet, that drove him to create his collection of chocolate mastery.

Markus was gracious enough to let me take a few photos. Now, wasn’t that sweet of him?