We recently connected with Cynthia Perla and have shared our conversation below.

Cynthia , appreciate you joining us today. What was it like going from idea to execution? Can you share some of the backstory and some of the major steps or milestones?

I used to work in the film industry as a special effects make-up artist. Business slowed down when the pandemic hit. While on a trip with my family to Mexico, I bought some gummies with chile which were extremely acidic. Jokingly, I told my kids that I could make a better version of them. When I got back to the states, I purchased a lot of ingredients, got to work and created a one-of-a-kind, hand-crafted tamarind paste. The taste and texture resembled the candy “Pelon, Pelo Rico” that I used to love as a child. My sister held a taco catering event and invited me to sell my new product and it was a huge success.

Cynthia , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I make hand-crafted Mexican spicy candy. My specialty is my own unique tamarind paste, that is preservative-free. I’m known for my candy and my skull-decorated chamoy apples. Packaging, presentation, and flavor are the focus of my business and it is where I put most of my effort towards. I’m most proud of starting my own business because I have been able to involve my special needs children therefore, making them more independent. I want everyone that purchases from me to leave with a unique experience. Be it from admiring the packaging or simply from the flavors incorporated in the candy.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

Taking pride in my pop up set ups. Adding bright colors, custom made shelves, eye appealing table cloths and packaging. Every purchase needs to be an experience. Whether it’s the cute labels, not common packaging, or the personalized shopping bags. We don’t like to sit around and look like we’re bored. We greet and smile at everyone. We offer samples even if they don’t like tamarindo or chili (spice) and most times those that are adventurous do end up purchasing the product.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

That we treat everyone equally. We are respectful, friendly and enjoy chatting with people from all over. I did research and try different cities/markets and I’ve learned the younger crowd enjoys the candy more so than the older crowd. I created a sugar free line as well so as to not have anyone miss out on the cynful treats experience. We like to meet new people and network with them. We’ve also done a few collaborations with other small businesses and that too has aided in helping us build our following.

Contact Info:

• Website: Cynfultreats.net
• Instagram: Instagram.com/cynful.treats
• Facebook: Cynful Treats