Bath Sweet Shoppe

  • Client: Jennifer DeChant
  • Business: Bath Sweet Shoppe
  • Location: Bath
  • County: Sagadahoc
  • Client Since: May 2020
  • Business Advisor: Brad Swanson
Bath Sweet Shoppe - Gummies

Jennifer DeChant had always dreamed of owning and running a small business. When her corporate job was eliminated, she took stock of her options. Was now the time to take the leap?  During a pandemic? Jennifer had the opportunity to purchase a candy boutique located in the heart of downtown Bath. For over 15 years, Bath Sweet Shoppe has been a spot to get delicious and quality chocolates, candy and great customer service.  

Jennifer reached out to Maine SBDC Business Advisor Brad Swanson to consider the idea more thoroughly. They discussed the structure of the deal and how to approach the seller. They worked through the financials to determine a fair price and how much financing she would need. With a solid business plan and accompanying financials, Jennifer was able to secure the financing she needed. In June 2020, Jennifer and her family officially took the reins and became the new owners of Bath Sweet Shoppe.

None of this would have been possible without the assistance from the Maine Small Business Development Centers…the professionalism, patience and expertise of Mr. Brad Swanson was essential to my ability to navigate an unfamiliar system for financing as well as business planning.