For many of us, childhood memories of summer include the excitement and awe of cotton candy.
Sugary clouds disappearing on your tongue with only sticky fingers to prove it was real send you back to those hot summer days at local markets and fairs.
Cotton candy isn’t just for kids however, and Kris Ireland and Clay Rookes have set out to bring back your love for the nostalgic treat that can be enjoyed year round.
The idea for their business was sparked by an obsession with cotton candy and a little machine bought off Craigslist to make treats for a best friend’s baby shower.
Soon, a name, logo, proper machine and supplies followed.
In 2018, the Nanaimo pair founded Sweet & Dandy Cotton Candy Co., sweet treats with vibrant colours, unique flavours and hilarious names.
Sweet & Dandy serves up their cotton candy by the container, gift packs, mini bags and something they like to call The Tower, a 2 foot tower of 20 different flavours of Cotton Candy.
They also make cotton candy cakes, an allergy friendly way to serve up a slice. And it’s fun!
When asked what flavours they currently offer, Kris Ireland replied, “It might almost be easier to say what flavours we DON’T have!”
“We have made over 200 different flavours over the last year alone! Some of the more unique are Dill Pickle, Sriracha, Maple Bacon (vegetarian of course), Mustard and even Pepperoni Pizza!”
The company has also made a variety of fruity flavours as well as a cocktail line that features Peach Bourbon Sour, Mimosas, Bellinis, Mojito and Fireball.
In addition, they have also put their very own “twist” on desserts like Churro, Maple Pecan Pie, Birthday Cake and Nanaimo Bar.
According to Sweet & Dandy, their most popular flavour is Unicorn Poop, a bright, colourful mix of cotton candy that changes all the time depending on whatever the Unicorn ate that day. The treat is complete with Unicorn sprinkles, and super popular with the kids.
“We have experimented with over 100 different flavours and combinations (so far) to bring you the freshest and most fun treat around!” Ireland said.
“From everyone’s favourites like Peach and Sea Salted Caramel to some truly outrageous flavours like Dill Pickle and Maple Bacon, we put a fun twist on this classic favourite and think you will agree that it is definitely NOT old fashioned Cotton Candy!”
So how can you get your hands on it to try it for yourself?
If you’re in Nanaimo, they offer pick up and $5 local delivery.
If you’re in Victoria, don’t worry, you wont miss out! Sweet & Dancy can deliver to you by Purolator for a flat rate of $20 (with some exceptions based on order size and address).
Sweet & Dandy is also excited to return to the market scene this summer, bringing a dozen flavours for eager customers to try for themselves!
Keep an eye out for their bright pink concession trailer named Lil Sweetie this summer at the Duncan Farmers Market, Cedar Farmers Market and Commercial Street Night Market in Downtown Nanaimo.
Check out their website here!
