A self-taught chocolatier, Kenesha Lewis roots her handcrafted chocolate company, One More Cocoa, in a Jamaican proverb: One, one cocoa, full basket. The saying, which reflects Lewis’s heritage, teaches the value of gradual progress.

“This philosophy reflects my journey, and my belief in taking small steps toward growth,” she says.

Lewis took the first small step toward a successful business when she launched One More Cocoa as an online shop in March 2021, from her parents’ basement.

“My love of chocolate and my desire to create something that brought joy and happiness to those around me inspired me,” Lewis says.

That inspiration takes tangible shape in the mouthwatering assortment of treats Lewis churns out—from whimsical birthday cake bars to hazelnut milk chocolate and gingerbread milk chocolate.

Table of Contents:

• Growth one step at a time
• Overcoming business challenges
• Quickbooks, a reliable assistant
• ‘Tis the season
• Advice for fellow business owners

Growth one step at a time

Lewis was buoyed by community support. “Their loyalty, encouragement and word-of-mouth recommendations have been invaluable to our growth and success.” She moved out of her parents basement to a brick-and-mortar location in Whitby, Ontario. 

“Along the way I’ve made countless changes to evolve the business—refining recipes, expanding our product line, and enhancing packaging,” Lewis says. Such singular and zealous attention to detail has not gone unnoticed: One More Cocoa won a spot on the 2023 edition of the coveted Oprah’s Favorite Things list.

“It was a milestone that brought incredible recognition for our business,” Lewis continues.

The chocolates also gained coverage on Foodnetwork.ca, and through the meal delivery company HelloFresh. 

“The achievements still feel surreal,” she notes.

Overcoming business challenges

But success has not been without its challenges. Lewis found it difficult to singlehandedly manage every aspect of the business—from production to customer service and marketing—while also trying to hire help. 

“I feel there are unique challenges that come with balancing societal expectations, biases, and the realities of entrepreneurship as a woman business owner,” Lewis says.

Although Lewis has found some financial support through grants, she notes that “women often face more scrutiny when seeking loans or investments, despite having solid business plans."

But these challenges don’t faze her. “They have made me more determined, resourceful and committed to building a business that inspires others,” she says. 

QuickBooks, a reliable assistant

Word of mouth helped Lewis decide to use QuickBooks as her main business management tool. “I knew I needed a reliable and trustworthy solution to manage my business finances, and QuickBooks was the perfect choice," Lewis notes. "It’s been a constant in my journey, simplifying my processes, and allowing me to focus on growing my business.”

She uses QuickBooks for all accounting needs—creating and sending invoices, tracking orders and expenses. “QuickBooks has helped us keep our finances organized, and made my life so much easier,” Lewis says. “It keeps everything organized and efficient, allowing me to focus more on crafting chocolates and less on stressing over numbers. It’s like having a reliable assistant keeping me on track.”

‘Tis the season

Lewis is prepared for the holiday rush, having already launched this season's advent calendar in October. 

The holiday season also brings its fair share of challenges, especially with staffing. “Being mostly a one-woman team means I have to plan my schedule meticulously to ensure I can produce everything on time. It’s a balancing act of juggling production, customer service, and all the little details that make the holidays special,” Lewis says.

“On top of that, the rising costs of chocolate and cocoa butter adds another layer of complexity as we navigate higher costs for goods,” she adds. Careful planning and dedication help.

Other ways Lewis manages the season: being organized with schedules and a ready-to-execute system.

“Planning ahead allows me to stock up on ingredients, streamline production, and create a menu that caters to my customers’ favourites and seasonal trends,” Lewis says. Her simple but often-overlooked strategy? Staying hydrated.

Advice for fellow business owners

For those launching their own business, her advice is to start small and think big. "Don’t rush progress," Lewis advises. "Learn from setbacks and keep going. Your passion and perseverance will carry you through tough times.”

"Customers kind words of encouragement make all the hard work worth it, and motivate me to keep going and creating chocolates," she notes. "My family and friends are also my guiding light through the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, offering guidance, honesty, and unwavering support whenever I needed it most,” she continues.

It’s why one of the fondest moments in her business came when her grandmother and extended family in Jamaica tried her chocolate for the first time.

“Sharing my creations with them and hearing their pride and joy in what I’ve accomplished is an unforgettable highlight,” she notes.

Next on One More Cocoa’s agenda—chocolates with beans sourced from around the world, with flavours that reflect each individual country’s specialty foods. First stop: Jamaica—with the Mango White Chocolate, Coconut Ginger Milk, and Rum/Jerk Dark Chocolate bars. 

As for the holidays, she is looking forward to the rush. She has her favourite unwinding mechanism lined up to go—watching much-loved Christmas movies while snuggling under a blanket with a warm cup of her milk chocolate cocoa creation.

With support from QuickBooks, Kenesha is able to easily manage the finances of One More Cocoa so she can focus on what she loves—creating the product. Learn how QuickBooks can help your business grow through the holidays and beyond.