By Mary Ellen Psaltis
Sadie Kassel may not be old enough to have a driver’s license, but she’s been involved in the family business for 14 years (that’s her age, by the way.) Chehalis Mints was started by her grandparents Mike and Sue Schofield in 1994. For the past twenty years, the family-run business has supplied the Northwest with mouth-watering mints and other delectable treats. You’ll find shining displays at Bayview and Ralph’s Thriftway (near the check out counters).
Don’t expect to find founders Sue or Mike Schofield lounging around these days. Their mint-making facility south of Olympia is working at full capacity to supply Santa Claus and all his helpers with gourmet chocolates and magical mints. The mint is grown in Eastern Washington and then I.P. Callison & Sons, Inc. of Chehalis convert the plants into essential oils.
The holiday season is Chehalis Mints’ busiest time of year. Fun shapes such as green Christmas trees and white stars can add a decorative touch to your holiday table. The foil wrapped coins are certain to bring a smile. For the chocolate lovers in your circle, Chehalis Mints has you covered. Select from chocolate espresso or dark chocolate mint. The holiday surprise bar is gaily wrapped in festive colors.
The Schofield family, which includes daughter Jennifer and son Jeff, may take a tiny breather after the season winds down, but the mint business continues all year round.
You can special order mints for weddings, baby showers and other celebrations. Sadie told me she’s a fan of the chocolate covered Oreo’s – sounds like party food to me. Check out photos of their products on their website by clicking here.
I know I will be making numerous stops at the grocery store between now and the end of the year. With two of our children home, visitors stopping by and parties to attend, there’s always a food list that needs attending. I love that both Ralph’s and Bayview make my shopping easier. Yes, they have groceries, but it’s the many extras that I will take advantage of as my time gets stretched. Maybe I’ll need another bottle of wine, an extra floral arrangement or a hostess gift.
Locally owned, the stores’ thoughtful attention to details will give me numerous possibilities from which to choose. Maybe Santa would like a butter mint snowflake sucker instead of a cookie. Chehalis Mints can help you check that off your list.
Eat Well – Be Well
