Marilyn O'Neill was raised in Eastern Montana and moved to Thompson Falls in 1995, with her husband Bill and daughter Jennifer. She began making candy in 1996, when Bill's niece, Nanette O'Neill (Muhn), opened a candy shop on Main Street called Muhnchies Candy. Nanette asked Marilyn to help her with the candy making which sounded like fun (and it is!) Later the shop was moved to a building next to Nanette's home. In January 1, 2000, Marilyn bought the business from Nanette. Her husband, Bill, built the candy making shop behind their house, where she is still located.
Marilyn says, "We live in an area famous for huckleberries because they only grow in the wild at high elevations. We blend the huckleberries with cream for the center and cover them in chocolate. It makes a piece of candy that is a little tart, a little sweet and a bit wild! All of the candies are made in small batches with fresh ingredients and lots of time. So each order is fresh and delicious! We make a small variety of candies that we have found people really enjoy (who doesn't like chocolate!) One of the favorites are our Huckleberry Truffles which won First Place at the Western Montana Fair in 1997.
Huckleberry cordials and truffles are a favorite among local customers as well as former homesick Montanans. Another favorite is the Cherry Cordials, which many say is close to the old-time ones that are more difficult to find now. We also make Grizzly Paws, Turtles, Truffles and Cordials in several flavors. Most are made in either milk, dark, or white chocolate, giving the customer a variety to choose from. They are also available in either bags or hand painted wooden gift boxes (made by husband Bill and painted by Heidi McGraw).
We also work hard to not only make delicious chocolates, but to ship the order as soon as possible. Now with customers in all 50 states as well as some internationally, we enjoy hearing from friendly people everywhere. We are a little off the beaten path but if you ever find yourself in Northwestern Montana, enjoying the Rocky Mountains, stop and say "Hello" and try a free sample!"
Marilyn O'Neill |