Each year, at least $36 million is spent on heart shape boxes the second
week of February. However; Morgan Roddy, owner of Queer Chocolatier, is
hoping that this year Valentines will be willing to go beyond a plastic $4.99 box
from the store to celebrate the holiday.
In lieu of Valentines week, Queer Chocolatier is holding guided chocolate
tasting events. These events feature the exploration of where each chocolate
came from, each person’s individual perception of each flavor, and how to work
with craft chocolates. Roddy heavily likes to focus on the differences between
store-bought and craft chocolates as far as where the beans are raised and the art
of making a craft chocolate candy. Roddy stresses the importance of individuals
thoroughly expressing their experience with each individual chocolate, evaluating
it’s natural flavors, which come from so few ingredients.
Though, the outlook on craft chocolate isn’t the only perception Roddy is
trying to break this week. Valentine’s Day is widely celebrated for its recognition
of love – but do we often remember to celebrate ALL types of love this week? As
social norms are changing, so should our perception of Valentine’s Day. Roddy
wants to remind everyone that Valentine’s Day is a celebration of all types of love,
everywhere. Roddy said, “Valentine’s Day is very heteronormative so we look to
provide an alternative to folks who are queer and give them a chance to share
their love unapologetically with someone who is not in that heteronormative
framework.”
While the tours started Monday evening, you still have the opportunity to
attend Thursday at 5:30 p.m.
