From Architect to Chocolatier – Meet Amy Everett Stankus of Chocolate South

by Cecilia Eisentrager

In 2004, after 20 years as a licensed Architect, Amy left her computer cubicle to work as stand-up chocolatier. Chocolate was always her passion, but there were recipes to be tested and flavors to be explored, so Amy became a Personal Chef and cooked for others while perfecting her chocolate making craft. Now she is offering her creations to you through Chocolate South, a chocolate boutique where the finest and freshest ingredients are brought together in small batches to create divine hand-crafted confections. When in Atlanta, be sure to visit stop in at her bright and sunny shop in West Midtown.

Where did you come up with the name Chocolate South?

Between my love for chocolate and my love for the South (I was born in Mississippi and have lived in Atlanta for almost 30 years!) the name came easily. Being a Southerner provides wonderful opportunities for blending flavors and creating descriptive and humorous names for our delicious products!

You’ve been in the chocolate business nearly ten years, what is your fondest memory to date about Chocolate South?

Until last year my chocolates were only available in shops owned by others. My fondest memory is opening my very first, very own retail chocolate shop and unlocking the door last year on the day of the Summer Solstice!

What is your favorite chocolate and/or candy to make?

Chocolate is such a complex and luxurious product with which to work that whatever I am making at the time tends to be my favorite!! —If I had to choose a favorite flavor it would be our Mississippi Mud or our Kona Coffee with Grand Marnier. But our Green Tea with Mint is close behind.

What do you love about living down South?

The people, the music, the literature, the heat, the food – how much space do I have?!?!?!

What’s your favorite quote about chocolate?

I have two – pick your favorite:

“Make a list of important things to do today. At the top of your list, put “eat chocolate.” Now, you’ll get at least one thing done today.” – Gina Hayes

“The 12-step chocoholics program: Never be more than 12 steps away from chocolate!” – Terry Moore

For more info about Chocolate South, click here