Your Stories

Sweetie fans Alan and Rita Parsons are hoping  the tempting smell of candy and popcorn that eminates around their Colchester home will soon wear off.

"The smell is one of the first things that most people remark about," says Rita.  "At the moment we're loving it, and so is everyone else."

The couple started their candy buffet business last November.  Their original plan had been to hire a popcorn machine which they could use at school fetes, etc, to raise funds.  However, this proved difficult so they decided to buy one.

As well as schools, they're now hoping to break into the wedding market.  With brides looking for something different, they're hoping that their unique candy buffet will have the "wow" factor that they're looking for. 

Each event is individually designed and colour-coordinated.  "The colours can fit in with whatever people want," Rita explains.  "We try to work with people and tailor what we do to what they want."

Working with your other half might not work for some people.  But, Rita and Alan are finding that it does for them - most of the time.

"We do have our moments.  Lucky we do get on very well anyway and don't tend to argue, but this does put extra pressure on.  You have to learn to keep the business separate," says Rita.

So, with all those sweets and candies in the house, is Rita the most popular mum in Colchester?

"A few children do like to be invited around, and I think my son has made a few extra friends," says Rita.