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Name: Sweets to Nuts

Type of business: Kosher candy and gift shop under the strict supervision of the Vaad HaKashrut of Raritan Valley

Address: 72A Raritan Avenue, Highland Park

Telephone: (732) 246-4686

Web site: www.sweetstonuts.com

Number of employees: It varies, depending on the season

Hours: Sunday 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; Tuesday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Wednesday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Thursday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Fri 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. with extended store hours during the holiday season.

Years in business: 5

Top Officer: Marion Bernstein

How would you describe your business?

"We are a kosher candy shop specializing in gift baskets, gift platters, and party favors for holidays, special occasions, and corporate events," said owner Marion Bernstein.

"We have a large selection of gourmet chocolates, nuts, dried fruits, and candies. Many sugar-free chocolates and candies are also available. We deliver to Highland Park/Edison, East Brunswick and New Brunswick. We ship nationwide daily."

What makes your business special?

"We are a strictly kosher business that accommodates the Jewish community. We provide personalized service and offer a wide range of products by decoratively filling ceramic gift platters, gift baskets, and gift boxes. Our delicious products can also be purchased by the pound."

What goals do you have for the business?

"Our goals are to expand our Web site e-commerce business, increase our corporate and synagogue business, and to further provide to our wonderful customers delicious items for all of their celebration and holiday needs."

How has your business changed?

"We have built a very loyal client base. We have had the pleasure of participating in their life cycle events by providing our products for bar/bat mitzvahs, baby celebrations, engagements, and aufrufs. We have watched families grow. We are proud to have a strong following in the community. We have also developed a corporate base by providing them with gifts and personalized chocolate products, allowing businesses to acknowledge their employees and customers."

What was your most important deal?

"All of our deals are important: whether we are providing chocolates and candies for a simcha, multiple holiday gifts for a company, Purim baskets for a synagogue, personalized chocolates for a major hotel, or a candy treat to someone's child, our goal is to put a smile on our customer's face."

What changes do you expect in the next 10 years?

"We expect to increase our customer base, including businesses and to expand our line of products in the next 10 years."

What is the most important thing you've learned in your business?

"I've learned to listen to our customers and tailor our products to their needs."

What advice would you give to someone considering your line of work?

"As in any business, it is essential to be passionate and proud of your product and always put the customer's needs first."

Is there anything else you would rather be doing?

"No. Through my business I have had the opportunity to enhance my creative talents by providing a delicious and beautiful product, working with great customers, and providing an important service to the community."