Sweet dreams are Crystal Jensen’s specialty. Owner of Candie Clouds, which serves up gourmet cotton candy confections, Crystal’s new venture is just as irresistible. Welcome to Coney’s Candies.
“Coney’s Candies came about when I was in search of a commercial kitchen to expand Candie Clouds,” explains Crystal. “I had the opportunity to purchase the building at 136 West Main Street that was formerly home to Bakery on Main, and once I stepped into this beautiful, historic building, I knew that it didn’t quite fit the glossy, pink, modern feel of Candie Clouds, but instead the building felt like something much more nostalgic.”
“This century-old building was here when Coney Island of the West in Waconia was in its heyday,” says Crystal. “In the late 1800s and early 1900s, people would travel through this area, stay at the resort on Coney Island, and the community would come out to celebrate summer. And so I decided the building was the perfect fit for an old-fashioned candy store and soda shop.”
Staying true to the historic space, Crystal is keeping as many original details as possible. “The back bar that has been there since the coffee shop Frost & Steam was in this space was a big inspiration in keeping the late 1800s atmosphere alive,” says Crystal. “We also discovered there was this beautiful old wooden floor underneath the vinyl that we’ll restore. I’ve been working with the Waconia Historical Society to learn more about the history of the area, Coney Island, and the space, so we can really honor those who owned the building and came before us. In that spirit, you’ll see antique life preservers, oars, and other nautical-themed decor.”
So what can you order up at Coney’s Candies? You can get your fill of Swedish candy that’s free of artificial dyes, ice cream from The Main Scoop, which will be moving into Coney’s Candies’ space, and dirty sodas, the latest trend that combines soda with flavored syrups, creamer, and a squeeze of fresh citrus.
“The classic dirty soda combo, and my personal favorite, is a mix of Dr. Pepper, vanilla syrup, and coconut cream,” says Crystal. “We’ll carry both Coke and Pepsi so everyone can have their preferred base. My four daughters and I were really excited to work through the naming process for each of the dirty soda combos. The Dr. Pepper combo will be called the Classic Coney, and the other 20 different flavors will have lake-themed and nostalgic, era-inspired names.”
At Coney’s grand opening this summer, Crystal is releasing a limited edition 40-ounce Stanley tumbler. “When you purchase your Coney’s Stanley, your first drink is free!” exclaims Crystal. “Then you can bring it back anytime for a $1 off your dirty soda drink. We plan on releasing a new Stanley design every year.”
But what Crystal looks forward to the most about Coney’s? Creating a space for community. “I’m most excited to create a space where the community can come create their own memories, and especially be a safe space for kids to come hang out. I really want the younger crowd to see Coney’s as a great place to gather, connect, be heard and seen, and experience that sense of belonging in a community.”
“I’m happy to have a bigger part in the community with this space," says Crystal. "The opening is already so much bigger than I was anticipating. “The support and excitement from the community has been overwhelming.”
Don’t miss out on the latest sweet treats. Follow Coney’s on Instagram @coneyscandies.