Meet Miranda Blizzard of Miranda’s Candies

Today we’d like to introduce you to Miranda Blizzard

Hi Miranda, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My story started with a bit of childhood wonder. I’ve always believed in the magic of simple joys – and for me, that’s candy. Growing up, I was fascinated by Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and the whimsical world of sweets. That movie sparked a dream – to one day have my own candy storefront, where red and white stripes meet modern retro, creating a place where people could step inside and feel like a kid again.

After years in HR and recruiting, I started feeling the pull to create something more personal. Candy has this incredible way of bringing back memories – the taste of something you loved as a kid or discovering an old favorite you haven’t seen in years. I wanted to capture that nostalgia while also offering fun, trending treats that people of all ages could enjoy. That’s how Miranda’s Candies began.

One of my favorite things to ask customers is, “What was your favorite candy as a kid?” or “What’s your favorite candy now?” I love hearing their stories – everyone lights up when they talk about the sweets that meant something to them. It’s those little moments that remind me why I started this journey.

As I’ve grown my business, I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with two local schools on projects analyzing market trends and pricing strategies for Miranda’s Candies. It was incredibly rewarding to work with both middle school and high school students, as each group brought unique perspectives to the table. Additionally, I had the opportunity to mentor an intern during her senior year fall semester. It was a uniquely fulfilling experience to see her growth and confidence as she contributed to my business.

What’s even more meaningful is the impact my journey has had on others. Seeing someone take a leap of faith and start their own new path, inspired in part by my story, has been one of the most humbling and gratifying parts of this adventure. Along the way, I’ve learned so much – from overcoming challenges to celebrating the small and big wins that keep me motivated.

I began with candy bags for events and soon added retro toys and vintage candy t-shirts to the mix. Over time, I expanded to local markets, breweries, and pop-ups, constantly evolving based on what people loved. Watching someone light up when they find a candy they haven’t had since childhood is the best part of what I do.

While I’m still working toward that dream storefront, each step feels like I’m getting closer. Miranda’s Candies has been a fun and fulfilling adventure full of learning, growth, successes, and challenges. I’m excited to see where this journey takes me next!

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Every journey comes with its fair share of obstacles, and building Miranda’s Candies has been no exception. I’ve faced challenges like wholesalers I relied on going out of business, which pushed me to find new sources to keep providing the candy my customers love. Summers in North Carolina also bring unique hurdles – the heat makes it difficult to participate in outdoor events, so I’ve had to think creatively to keep my business growing during those months.

One of the biggest challenges has been finding my place in a market dominated by big-box stores and large online retailers. Competing with their scale can be tough, but I’ve focused on what sets Miranda’s Candies apart: a personal touch, nostalgic candy bags, and unique offerings like retro toys and vintage candy t-shirts. While my online sales have been strong, I’m always looking for ways to grow and make my website a go-to destination for candy lovers.

These challenges haven’t always been easy, but they’ve been opportunities to adapt, stay creative, and connect with my customers in meaningful ways. Each obstacle has helped shape Miranda’s Candies into the special business it is today!

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Miranda’s Candies in Raleigh, NC blends the sweet flavors of the past with today’s trending treats. Take a stroll down memory lane with classic candies and childhood favorites, or discover the latest sweets everyone’s talking about.

We also offer retro toys, vintage candy t-shirts, and customized gifts for all special events – perfect for birthdays, holidays, corporate gifts, or just because. Whether you’re looking for nostalgic candy bags, fun throwback gifts, or a unique treat, Miranda’s Candies has something for everyone.

How do you think about luck?
Luck has definitely played a role in my journey, but it’s the people I’ve met along the way who have truly made a difference. I’ve been fortunate to have an amazing support system – my friends, family, and former co-workers have encouraged me every step of the way. My husband has been my biggest cheerleader, always believing in me and this dream, even when things felt uncertain.

I’ve also been lucky to cross paths with great vendors and businesses that have helped me grow. For example, Lonerider Brewery has been an incredible partner, giving me the opportunity to showcase my candy in a space where people can discover and enjoy it. Those connections, combined with the kindness and encouragement of so many people, have made this journey even more special.

While hard work and creativity are vital, I know I wouldn’t be where I am today without the little moments of luck and the amazing people who’ve supported me along the way.

Pricing:

• .05
• 5.00
• 9.00
• 24.99
• 100.00+

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.mirandascandies.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mirandascandies?igsh=bDY4ZGttM2Nxcnk1
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19f3cwPKJE/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/miranda-blizzard-a236252?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@mirandas.candies?_t=ZP-8t2G1KtCy9n&_r=1

Image Credits
Photo Of Smarties T-Shirt credit – Grandpa Joe’s is who I purchased through. Sweet Memories Vintage Tees is the company that makes the shirts. I also buy from them.

Photo of the Retro Toy – Toysmith is who I purchased through.