Judy Haist (left) of J&J's Chocolate Sensations demonstrating techniques with a customer at a recent chocolatier workshop. (Photo supplied by Judy Haist)
For nearly two decades, J&J’s Chocolate Sensations have been an undeniably sweet addition to Renfrew’s downtown core.
Owner Judy Haist and her family have been creating and selling handmade Belgian chocolate treats for customers from across the Ottawa Valley since 2008, when her late husband, Jeff, took a chance on starting his own business.
The operation has become a popular year-round stop for chocolate lovers, but it’s the holiday season that really brings people in as they get ready for a winter of office parties, gift giving, and a little self-indulgence.
Haist can usually be found hard at work in the J&J’s kitchen, producing everything from chocolate box classics, filled confections, truffles, and chocolate bark to their now hit-selling hot chocolate bombs and Dubai-style bars.
She says people are beginning to understand the importance of high-quality chocolate, but pairing it with flavours sourced close to home also matters.
The business has had to weather changing market conditions, as global chocolate prices have gone up due to war and bad weather while the ongoing U.S. tariff situation has forced them to look for new Canadian solutions for their packaging.
Despite those challenges, Haist enjoys being able to make people happy. She has also begun bringing customers in for chocolate-making workshops to share that joy with the community.
You can find J&J’s Chocolate Sensations at their storefront at 204 Raglan Street South in Renfrew, as well as on their website.
(written by Kasey Egan)
