Ocean Beach MainStreet Association

Sweet Dreams at Beach Sweets

Article and photo by Becca Lyn

People in OB tend to live out their dreams. Whether they dream simply, of daily coffee by the water, or more precisely like owning a candy store by the water, people here do what they dream.

Lara Smith, co-owner of Beach Sweets, had precise dreams, and now lives them. Beach Sweets, OB's candy store, opened in June 2007. After dreaming of her store Smith and her partner, Eric Thomson, now get to celebrate its first year in operation.

Smith said she dreamed of the everyday stuff: opening in the morning, sweeping the floors, and even being here at all hours. Yes, here. She dreamed the exact location. "I always wanted it right in this location where we are," she said, patting the counter.

Thomson literally shared her dream: "We'd walk by this place and I'd go 'yea, I know'. She had it all planned out." In fact, Smith and Thomson walked by this location for 5 years while dreaming of it. When it became reality he spent about six months getting the place ready to open.

Apart from dreaming, Smith had the business plan written and ready for potential landlords. She explained how she and Thomson saw the 'For Rent' sign during one of their frequent trips between Boston and San Diego, and immediately programmed the phone number into their cell phone as 'Candy Store'.

A year later, Smith, a trained chef, said she's still learning. When not in the store she studies chocolateering and other methods so she can offer more of her eclectic creations. When not working on her art, Smith works with Thomson on their business.

Beach Sweets offers 80 bulk candy bins and carries top-quality known brands not found in large chain stores. OB's candy store also offers nostalgia candy and other beach-themed novelties.

Smith said she's gearing up for summer and bringing in an Icee machine for those hot summer days. During June the store will feature raffles and offer prizes to celebrate their first year.

The house specialty at Beach Sweets is the Wipe Out: a simple and sweet concoction of white chocolate, peanut butter, marshmallows, and Rice Krispies. But Smith loves all her creations and is proud of everything she offers--even if she thinks her chocolate-covered strawberries are a bit messy that day.

"I always thought OB needed a candy store and a bakery," said Smith. She dreamed her store, and now she and Thomson celebrate it.

Beach Sweets, located at 5022 Newport Ave. is open everyday from 11am to 8pm. They can be reached at 619.222.3322, or visit them at www.oceanbeachsweets.com.