Single mum Donna Ward is a shining example that you can become a success if you've got grit and determination. Nottingham's self-proclaimed Candy Queen says that it's not where you start it's where you finish as she pushes ahead with growing her business.
The 39-year-old makes fruit more enticing by adding a naughty twist. Since starting Candy Apple Couture Donna had gone from cheesecake-stuffed apples to gourmet chocolate strawberries and now her latest, the American trend of candy-dipped grapes - with vodka-infused ones for the adults.
As well as selling online, Donna takes her fruity treats to West Bridgford farmers' markets, where the products sell for £6 to £10. The mum-of-five was unemployed before launching her business in 2015.
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She said: "I opened my business in 2015 and had an amazing response to my products but during Covid, like many other small businesses, I stopped trading. I focused on coming back even better and perfecting my products so now I'm back open for business.
"My passion is to bring creative ideas from places like America and Japan and to put my own twist on things which in doing so I can proudly say that Candy Apple Couture is the first business in England to offer the service and products I make. I am excited for Nottingham to try my exclusive delicious snacks."
Donna hopes her story will inspire other women in a similar position to herself. She said: "My goal is to show other mums and young women like me that with drive and self belief anything is possible.
"When I first started my business I had help from the Job Centre with a small grant and it helped me buy equipment for my market stall. They have great mentors also to help you in the right direction so it wasn’t as hard as some people think it is to start your own business.
To maintain it, that’s where the hard work comes. It can become very stressful and there’s times I want to give up but I just remember why I started this and remind myself to keep going.
"My message to any other single mums out there wanting to start their own business is go for it. If it's something you enjoy doing it won’t ever feel like work. I love to see people smile and excited for my products - it makes it all so worthwhile.
"There is support out there to help you on your way. You literally just have to take that leap of faith and have a good idea or product. Believe you can and you are already half way to success."
Her dream would be to open the UK's first interactive Candyland, a Willy Wonka style attraction. "I literally want a carousel in the middle of the attraction and a chocolate waterfall, slides and marshmallow foam pits! I want to create an experience and memories for families - that’s my dream."
