Today we’d like to introduce you to Kimberly Blackwell.
Hi Kimberly, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My journey has been anything but linear, but every step has shaped me into the person and business owner I am today. I started my career in banking, working in retail management, commercial lending, and mortgages. While I enjoyed the corporate world, I had always dreamed of owning my own business—something creative and community-focused.
Life as a single mom has been my greatest challenge and inspiration. My daughters, Claire and her best friend Camille have always been at the heart of everything I do. These two work with me and the customers love them. They inspire me daily to show that no matter the obstacles—being a single parent or starting fresh—it’s possible to chase your dreams and succeed.
In 2024, I took the leap and opened The Pendleton Candy Company. With hard work, love, and support from my family, we quickly became recognized as the Best Candy Shop in South Carolina and Best in the Southern States by Southern Living Magazine. It’s been an incredible journey to not only grow a successful business but also to bring joy to our community and show my daughters that anything is possible.
Every day is a new chapter, and I’m excited to keep writing this story—sweetly, of course!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It hasn’t been a smooth road, but every challenge has taught me something valuable. Starting a business as a single mom was one of the biggest hurdles. Balancing the demands of raising my daughter, Claire and her best friend Camille, while building The Pendleton Candy Company was no easy feat. There were long nights, tight budgets, and moments of doubt.
One of the biggest challenges was transitioning from a stable career in banking to the uncertainty of entrepreneurship. I had to learn everything from scratch, from perfecting recipes to managing a retail store. There were also logistical struggles, like navigating supply chain issues and marketing a new business in a competitive market. The hurricane hit during our biggest weekend of the year, Clemson Homecoming and we didn’t have power for six days.
Despite the struggles, the support of my community and the inspiration I draw from Claire and Camille has kept me going. Every challenge became an opportunity to grow, and seeing the joy my business brings to others has made it all worth it.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about The Pendleton Candy Company ?
What sets The Pendleton Candy Company apart is the perfect blend of quality, tradition, and community focus. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted with the warmth of a small-town shop paired with the artistry of handcrafted confections that rival the best in the nation.
Every treat is made with care and attention to detail, using high-quality ingredients and recipes that evoke a sense of nostalgia while offering modern, exciting flavors. Beyond the sweets, the store creates a welcoming atmosphere where every customer feels like family.
The personal story behind the business also makes it unique. Kimberly Blackwell’s journey from banking executive to award-winning candy store owner, driven by her daughters Claire and Camille, adds a layer of inspiration and authenticity that resonates with customers.
The Pendleton Candy Company isn’t just a place to buy desserts—it’s an experience that celebrates sweetness, connection, and the joy of indulgence.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is you can do anything with hard work and everyday is a special event.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: PendletonCandyCompany
- Facebook: The Pendleton Candy Company
- Youtube: The Pendleton Candy Company
