This morning, Downtown Cranford Director Caren Demyen, DMC Board members, and Mayor Brian Andrews officially welcomed Amanda Sanabria and her chocolate and confections shop Lily & Sparrow to the business community! Lily & Sparrow is located at 25 Alden Street, and is the fulfillment of a long-held dream of Amanda’s. Though she originally wanted to be a baker, Amanda fell in love with chocolate while pursuing her culinary degree and worked at a chocolate factory after graduating. In 2021, Amanda took her knowledge and passion for chocolate making and started her own home business, with the eventual goal of opening a storefront. When she came across the available space on Alden Street, Amanda knew it was the perfect fit.
“I grew up coming to Cranford,” said Amanda. “The town is so welcoming and family friendly, plus it brings in people from all over.”
Amanda is currently the sole bonbon maker at Lily & Sparrow. She plans to offer 12 signature flavors, including the customer favorite Romeo and Juliet, which enrobes goat cheese and guava in a white chocolate shell. The shop also sells chocolate bars from Brazil, a nod to Amanda’s Portuguese and Brazilian roots. “In addition to our signature flavors, customers can expect seasonal flavors and designs,” said Amanda. “I’m also looking forward to collaborating with other Downtown Cranford businesses.”
Customers who stop in can purchase bonbons by the piece or in 4,5,9 and 12 piece boxes. Amanda also creates custom favors for events, including weddings, bridal showers, corporate events, and more. Lily & Sparrow will have its grand opening tomorrow, September 21st, at 10AM. Its hours of operation are Thursday-Friday 12-6 and Saturday 10-3. The business recently debuted an updated website, https://lilyandsparrow.net/, which will be updated with the shop’s offerings and events.
“I hope my passion for chocolate is evident to everyone who walks through the door,” said Amanda. “I’m so excited to share Lily & Sparrow with the community and grow the business. To me, each piece of chocolate is a little piece of joy!”
