Women in Chocolate Business: Raphio and Villakuyaya Story of Friendship

Seattle was one of the places I was able to go to because of Villakuyaya. It is where the Northwest Chocolate Festival was held, so I went there to expand my knowledge of the artisanal chocolate market. The Northwest Chocolate Festival brings together local and international chocolatiers every year.

With Villakuyaya, we have participated in an unconference and two festivals. It is where experts talk about cocoa and chocolate production. It was a great opportunity to learn and gain knowledge.

But if you ask me what the most important thing that the Northwest Chocolate Festival has left me is, the answer is very easy—the friendship with Elisa Otavi, founder and owner of Chocolate Raphio. She taught me the true meaning of being colleagues in this caminar del chocolate. She taught me a lot about the chocolate industry and has been a genuine and supportive friend since the beginning.

We always enjoy talking about our chocolate brands and help each other with advice and encouragement to grow our businesses. I'm grateful that Elisa also sells Villakuyaya chocolates in her store in Fresno, California. If you're in the area, don't miss the chance to try Raphio's chocolates—they my favorites, of course, after Villakuyaya.