For customers with a sweet tooth, Lollidrops is a local favorite

It’s amazing how great ideas can sometimes just fall into place. For Darren Fichter and his family, the ideas seemed to come in droves when they moved to Jasper, Georgia four years ago. Inspired by their new home, they began thinking of ways to become an integral part of the community. By 2019, the Fichters’ brainstorming had led to the opening of the nostalgia-flavored dessert and candy store known as Lollidrops Sweet Shoppe.

“When we moved here, we fell in love with the historic downtown district but we felt like there was an opportunity to add some life to the community,” said founder Darren Fichter. “One evening we were watching the Hallmark Movie Channel and my wife came up with the idea: we should do an old-fashioned candy and ice cream shop. Our daughter even provided the inspiration for the name!”

“When we moved here, we fell in love with the historic downtown district but we felt like there was an opportunity to add some life to the community,” said founder Darren Fichter. “One evening we were watching the Hallmark Movie Channel and my wife came up with the idea: we should do an old-fashioned candy and ice cream shop. Our daughter even provided the inspiration for the name!”

Wedged in between several other modest businesses that line South Main Street, Lollidrops fits in perfectly with the small town vibe of Jasper while also standing out with its own unique personality. Amid a sea of red brick buildings, its light blue decor is hard to miss and kindly invites you in for a closer look. Inside the shop, the familiarity of a bygone era is noteworthy and adds to the nostalgic atmosphere that Lollidrops has created.

Behind the display case of ice cream options, employees can be seen using a refrigerator and a stove that date back almost a century. Before they even reach the counter to place an order, patrons are greeted with a vast array of trinkets and treats that remind many people – even the Millennial generation – of the days of their youth. From an antiquated gumball machine and old-fashioned candy to toy soldiers and tin whistles, customers of every age can enjoy what Lollidrops has to offer.

“We design and present everything with families in mind,” said Mr. Fichter. “Not only do the kids love the sights and sounds of our shop, the store brings back fond childhood memories to the adults as well.”

While Lollidrops Sweet Shoppe has experienced surprising success in a short amount of time, the Fichters worked patiently and diligently to lay the groundwork for their brand. Founding the company in 2018, they leased the lot for almost a year to ensure they didn’t lose the location. After renovations began in February of 2019, they traveled to Philadelphia to visit an ice cream company with a history spanning over 150 years. Building a quick rapport with the sixth-generation owner of this historic ice cream shop, Darren established a valuable connection that helped him get exceptional ice cream products locally and develop the consistent quality that makes Lollidrops both successful and popular. Once the Fichters had the pieces in place to run their business, they set their sights on effectively marketing their brand.

“Social media has always been a focus for our shop. We believe it’s important to get the community to interact and share their experiences with our brand. Their feedback helps us continue to make the business even better. Our customers are awesome, so why not get them involved?”

Lollidrops Sweet Shoppe’s combination of charming brand marketing and truly delicious desserts has clearly struck a chord with customers. They were recently awarded recognition as Small Business of the Month by The Pickens County Chamber of Commerce. Darren Fichter is rightfully proud of the accomplishment and he believes wholeheartedly that dedication and determination bring positive energy to business ventures. Having indulged in a cookie dough milkshake during my last visit, I’m inclined to agree.