Local chocolatier Richard Ruthven took his passion and sweet tooth to create Charlene's Chocolate Factory, which he launched in April 2015 after the birth of his daughter Charlene. He creates unusual but delicious combinations of flavours, which look almost too good to eat. Richard also creates bespoke bars for even the most unconventional of ideas, so get thinking and get in touch with him.
Here Richard takes us from the beginning of Charlene's Chocolate Factory, to where he is now just a few months later...
How did the idea for Charlene's Chocolate Factory come about?
I have been a chef for over 12 years and have always had a passion for desserts and sweet dishes. Chocolate has always been an interest of mine. So when my daughter was born I was inspired to start my own business. Currently 10% of the profits go to her and I aim to increase that as we grow as a company.
How easy was it to make your idea a reality?
Easy in one sense, hard in another. It is easy to set up, but it's really hard to get the branding right and to get your name out there. Marketing is a full time job sometimes.
Did you have any set-backs while setting up Charlene's Chocolate Factory?
It was hard getting the name and branding right, I went through 3 or 4 different names and brand ideas before settling on Charlene's Chocolate Factory.
What is the best part about owning Charlene's Chocolate Factory?
Being my own boss and being able to be as creative as I want. I often don't like just doing the norm and I like to always push boundaries and try new things with my cooking. And you don't always get the chance to do that. Although I do need reining in from time to time
What is your favourite flavour of chocolate that you make?
Probably either "semi sweet basil" or "wake me up before you cocoa" and my favourite truffle is "salted caramel with milk chocolate & chilli".
What is the most unusual flavour chocolate you have made?
Probably "love it or hate it" marmite chocolate is always guaranteed to get a reaction, however I have a few unusual flavours like beetroot, basil & rosemary.
Have you had any flavouring blunders that were just too wrong to be right?
Not really, I did try bacon and maple the taste was ok but the texture needs work. Apart from that my first version of basil was a disaster then I eventually got it right
Is there a chocolate which has been discontinued in shops which you would love to bring back?
I always loved Wonka exploder bars, so I would love to do a dark or triple chocolate version.
Do you have any help with the chocolate tasting and testing?
Most of the time I rely on my own palette but I always try out my new recipes on family, friends and I might try them out as samples at events.
What are your future plans for Charlene's Chocolate Factory?
I would love to open a shop specialising in hand made truffles as well as our bars. I have so many ideas that I want to do which would only translate well if I had a shop premises.
Do you have any events coming up which readers can catch you at?
I am currently booked into The Tudor Close Farmers and Craft Market which takes place every second Saturday in Ferring, with the next one taking place on October 10th from 10am. I am also at the Emporium in Worthing town centre every third Saturday, and any local food festivals when I can. I always post where I will be on my Facebook page and I would encourage everyone to like my page for updates on new events and products.
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