Speaker,
Tracey Downey

Tracey Downey, Chocolatier and  Speaker
A handcrafted, high quality, Belgium Style chocolate, free from preservatives and additives" is what founder and creator Tracey Downey-Racen of Downey's Chocolates set out to achieve. "I don't believe chocolate gets better with age," as Tracey smiles, "it reminds me of the chocolate Easter Bunny that turned white as a child."

Her dream to create the finest chocolate began in her own kitchen as a hobby. Tracey observed when you mention chocolate it not only brings a smile but a wonderful memory of childhood experience. Everyone has a favorite and she often hears that it can't be found or not like it used to be.

Her husband Ken fondly remembered his grandmother Virginia, a Chocolatier, who made a "soft vanilla caramel that melted in your mouth and didn't stick to your teeth" but when Virginia passed away, she took her famous recipe with her. Tracey set out to recreate it and on her third attempt, she matched it.

Soon the chocolates she was creating as gifts to family and friends became orders and reorders "The odd part" Tracey recalls, "is everyone wanted to purchase my chocolates, but no one was willing to share their stash." As the orders, increased and new customers began ordering she realized that her hobby was now a business.

Tracey decided to immerse herself in chocolate and studied with some of the world's top Chocolatiers, Pastry Chefs and Food Scientists. A local bakery offered Tracey commercial kitchen space after they fell in love with her chocolates. She out grew the space after six months and started looking for a retail space that would allow her space to grow

Tracey's current location in Laguna Niguel is closer to her home. After an extensive build out Downey's Chocolates, Artisan Chocolate Studio and Cafe was born. Tracey refers to the studio/cafe as the "place where chocolates, gelato and crepes meet art"

Tracey Downey is also the daughter of late talk show host Morton Downey Jr., a great entertainer, actor, and politician who lost his battle to cancer March 2001. She dedicates her line of "Big Mouth Candies" a selection of premium brittles, toffees, and oversized specialty chocolates to his memory. Although you don't need a big mouth to enjoy "Big Mouth Candies," they are so good it envelopes your mouth and leaves a big smile. Who doesn't remember this?

Topics: Insights on "CHOCOLATE" 
Tracey Downey will share great insights about chocolate, and how she started as chocolatier as well as open ‘The Chocolate Café’ in Laguna Niguel, CA.,  and forming Downey's Chocolate's,  a luxury experience.

Return to Speaker Index