Amid the world of confections, where innovation meets tradition, T’Juanna Winters has carved out a niche that is as unique as it is delicious. The founder of Lizzie Lu Treats, T’Juanna draws inspiration from her family roots, blending personal history with entrepreneurial spirit to create a brand that stands out in the competitive candy industry.
T’Juanna’s journey with candy began in her grandmother’s kitchen. Elizabeth Jones, affectionately known as Liz, was more than just a grandmother; she was a mentor and muse. “We called her Liz, and I spent so much time with her in the kitchen that they started calling me Lil Lizzie,” T’Juanna recalls. This close bond and shared passion for candy-making laid the foundation for what would become Lizzie Lu Treats, a name that pays homage to both her grandmother and her childhood nickname.
Lizzie Lu Treats is celebrated for its innovative approach to candy. Among its standout creations are the Sunburst Lemon and Heat Wave chocolates. The Sunburst Lemon offers a refreshing lemon flavor without the tartness, while Heat Wave combines sweet and spicy elements, delivering a unique taste experience that ends with a surprising kick. “Our chocolates often surprise people because they don’t taste like traditional chocolate. It’s this element of surprise and delight that makes our products special,” T’Juanna explains.
Building a brand from the ground up is no small feat, especially as a small, black-owned business in a competitive industry. T’Juanna has faced numerous challenges, from securing distribution to marketing her products on a limited budget. “Getting larger stores to take a chance on us has been tough, but we know we have a great product. Our customers confirm this every day,” she says. Through perseverance and strategic marketing, Lizzie Lu Treats is steadily gaining recognition and expanding its reach.
For T’Juanna, maintaining a balance between business demands and personal life is crucial. “When it’s crunch time, I dive in and work extra hours to fulfill orders, but I also make sure to take time off to recharge,” she shares. This balance helps prevent burnout and keeps her motivated. “You need those moments to decompress and come back to work refreshed and inspired.”
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Being a successful entrepreneur also means looking and feeling your best. T’Juanna’s go-to hairstyle for business events is the Burmese Curly from D Hair Boutique. “It’s an easy, get-up-and-go style that’s sexy and full of volume,” she says. Maintaining this look requires a good moisturizing spray and curly hair-specific products, ensuring her hair stays hydrated and styled to perfection. She emphasizes the importance of self-care, both in her beauty routine and her overall well-being, acknowledging that a confident appearance can bolster one’s professional presence.
Looking ahead, T’Juanna has big plans for Lizzie Lu Treats. In the next five years, she aims to transform it into a national brand, available in grocery stores, convenience stores, and boutiques across the country. She plans to continue innovating with new flavors and expanding into the cookie market with their shrinking line. “Our primary focus will always be on our chocolates because they are truly special,” T’Juanna emphasizes. She envisions Lizzie Lu Treats on the shelves of major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Kroger, bringing her unique confections to a wider audience.
T’Juanna Winters’ journey from her grandmother’s kitchen to the forefront of the candy industry is a testament to her passion, resilience, and innovative spirit. Through Lizzie Lu Treats, she not only honors her family’s legacy but also paves the way for future generations of entrepreneurs. As she continues to grow her brand, T’Juanna remains committed to creating delicious, memorable experiences for her customers, one unique flavor at a time. She also hopes to inspire other women, especially in the beauty and business sectors, to pursue their dreams with determination and grace.
Stay connected with Lizzie Lu Treats on social media at @lizzieluluxury and visit their website at https://lizzieluluxury-treats.com for more information and to shop their delightful confections.
