Merchant spotlight: The Chocolate Manor

Our marvellous merchants are what make needi so special. They’re the best of the best, the crème de la crème - and we LOVE getting to know them better. 

Especially when they’re as delicious as this one. 

Based in Castletock, The Chocolate Manor is bringing magic and mystique back to the world of cocoa…one irresistible slab at a time. 

Founded in Geri’s kitchen while she was on maternity leave, The Chocolate Manor has gone from strength to strength, delighting chocolate lovers far and wide - including (ahem) the King himself!

We caught up with Geri to get the lowdown. 

Business: Chocolate Manor

Founder: Geri Martin 

Location: Northern Ireland

🍫 Perfect for

Tasty treats for product launches, events and more

Memorable client thank you's

Tokens of appreciation to your staff

What inspired you to start your business?

The inspiration behind The Chocolate Manor was a deep passion for creating memorable, meaningful moments through chocolate.

It all started in my home kitchen while on maternity leave with my second child. I signed up for a 10-week chocolate skills course - and fell in love instantly. I discovered a joy in artisan craftsmanship and the magic of gifting, creating bespoke chocolates for friends and family.

I quickly realised that chocolate is a universal language. It brings people together, sparks joy, and leaves a lasting impression.

As demand grew, so did my ambition. For five years I ran the business part-time while working and raising my young family. I saw that people were searching for something truly unique, and we could deliver it: handcrafted chocolates that are not only delicious, but also tell a story - of place, people, and purpose.

In 2017, I left my day job to focus fully on the business, and it’s gone from strength to strength.

Today, from our base in Castlerock on the Causeway Coastal Route, we offer everything from immersive chocolate experiences to bespoke corporate gifts. But the heart of it all remains the same: creating indulgent, meaningful treats that connect people in the sweetest way possible.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learnt so far on your journey?  

I've learnt that being willing to evolve, pivot, and embrace change without losing sight of your core purpose is key. Running The Chocolate Manor has taught me that creativity isn’t just for the kitchen; it’s essential in business too. 

Whether it was navigating the impact of COVID-19, or transforming how we deliver chocolate experiences, I’ve learned that staying open to new ideas and feedback is crucial.

What makes your business special?  

What makes The Chocolate Manor truly special is our ability to blend artistry, personalisation, and purpose in every chocolate we create. We’re not just chocolatiers - we’re storytellers. From bespoke printed chocolates and personalised packaging to immersive chocolate experiences in our artisan emporium in Castlerock, we offer a level of creativity and care that helps our clients really stand out.

Every product is handcrafted to order using ethically sourced ingredients and sustainable packaging. Unlike larger manufacturers, we don’t require high minimum orders - our model is built on flexibility and quality. Whether it’s a single bespoke gift or a branded campaign for a major event, we craft each piece with heart

Ultimately, we turn chocolate into connection - helping people celebrate, say thank you, and make a lasting impression in the sweetest way possible.

What's your favourite product and why?

Am I allowed two? I have two favourites because both played a pivotal role in our journey.

The first is our 6 Disc Box, created when we were asked to provide a gift for HRH Prince William during a visit to Northern Ireland. We were told we could simply place the chocolates in a bag, but we wanted to go above and beyond. That desire to create something truly memorable led to the design of the 6 Disc Box. It’s now one of our bestsellers. Customers love the mix of flavoured discs and the personalised chocolate message inside - it’s a gift that really stands out.

The second has to be our Truffle Tins. In 2022, when King Charles made his first visit to Northern Ireland as King, we were honoured to be asked to create a welcome gift on behalf of the people of the province. That gift became known as the ‘King’s Tin’, and even now, we still receive requests for it.

Not many chocolatiers can say their creations have been presented to both the current and future King. It’s a source of great pride, and a testament to the thought, care, and creativity that go into everything we make.

What’s the top piece of advice you would give to fellow small business owners?  

Don’t be afraid to ask for help - and recognise that you don’t have to do everything yourself. One of the most common traps for small business owners is trying to wear every hat, even in areas that aren’t your strengths. It’s not a weakness to seek support; in fact, it’s a strength to know when to bring in professionals who can do something better or more efficiently.

I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have had some brilliant mentors along the way. Their guidance helped me navigate some of the most challenging times in my business. Surrounding yourself with the right support makes all the difference -it’s how you grow stronger, faster, and more sustainably

What’s the most memorable gift you’ve ever received? 

A great friend created a personalised word cloud for me for my birthday, which came with personalised ribbon. The fact they had taken the time to create it for me, meant a lot. And with a name like Geri, I don't get many gifts with my name on them!

Want to make a lasting impression?

From royal-approved treats to personalised chocolate experiences, The Chocolate Manor brings creativity, care, and a serious wow-factor to every gift.

Whether you're saying thanks to clients, celebrating a launch, or showing your team some love. 

Chat to gift expert and let's make your corporate gifting even sweeter!