Born in Baltimore, MFG Toffee & Bark Company makes small-batch toffees and chocolate barks inspired by flavors from around the world. Owner Kathy Filosi Nelson built the business from an old family English walnut toffee recipe, and the woman-owned company remains rooted in Baltimore’s artisan community through local hiring, community events and product donations to medical workers and first responders. Its retail shop and production kitchen in Little Italy offer a local window into the handmade process.
Woman-Owned Small Business
Wockenfuss CandiesSince opening its Baltimore candy company in 1915, Wockenfuss Candies has made chocolate specialties and confections, including its signature homemade chocolates and Carmallows. The family-owned business is now operated by the fifth generation—Paul and Lynn’s three daughters—and has grown to six Maryland retail stores while continuing to manufacture candy in Baltimore. Wockenfuss is also a woman-owned business.NOTTINGHAM, MD
Bomboy's CandyA family business since Barry and Jean Bomboy opened their Havre de Grace storefront in 1978, Bomboy’s Candy continues to make chocolates from recipes passed down through the family. The company’s handcrafting and deep ties to its hometown have helped build a word-of-mouth customer base spanning all 50 states, while its donations support local community organizations.HAVRE DE GRACE, MD
Mouth Party CaramelFrom its Timonium shop, Mouth Party Caramel makes small-batch gourmet caramels using a four-generation-old family recipe. The Maryland confectioner is especially known for Chesapeake Caramels, which fold iconic Old Bay seasoning into a simple cream-and-butter caramel, alongside classics such as sea salt and chocolate sea salt. Its fresh-to-order sweets are packaged for retail, gifts, and customized corporate orders.LUTHERVILLE TIMONIUM, MD
The Buckeye LadyPandemic-born and women-owned, The Buckeye Lady handcrafts Ohio’s peanut butter-and-chocolate buckeye candy, including its signature Stuffed Buckeyes in rotating varieties. Founded as a fundraiser for service-industry workers, the Columbus confectioner now honors founder Jeremy’s memory by donating a portion of every sale to area dog rescues and shelters.COLUMBUS, OH