SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) — In the heart of downtown Syracuse, Sweet-on-Chocolate is bustling with activity as chocolatiers gear up for one of the busiest days of the year. Adam Mazzoni, the owner of Sweet-on-Chocolate and his team are working tirelessly to ensure that customers have a sweet Valentine’s Day experience.
“It’s all hands on deck this time of year,” said Mazzoni. “The way that Valentine’s Day works, it’s about two-thirds of Christmas or so wrapped into about one week.”
With Valentine’s Day coming in hot, employees have been arriving at the shop two hours earlier than usual, eager to prepare an array of chocolate treats. From dipping to drizzling, the team is meticulously crafting each chocolate treat with care.
Among the special touches for the holiday, Mazzoni makes sure to order long stem strawberries every year for their exceptional size and flavor.
The anticipation isn’t just limited to Sweet-on-Chocolate; the U.S. Chamber of Commerce estimates that local businesses in Syracuse are set to benefit by about $58 million this Valentine’s Day.
“If possible choose a local chocolate shop, choose a local florist,” Mazzoni says. “It really helps us and hopefully makes you feel good knowing that you’re supporting a business that then in turn gives back to your community.”