Community Feature for September 2026

A Sweet Pairing

This September, we’re getting to know Tara and Juma — a couple who share a love for travel, meaningful experiences, and, naturally, good chocolate. From how they see the world to the little things that bring them joy, discover their story and what makes their connection so sweet.

Q and A 

1. How and when did you first hear about Co Chocolat?

Juma:
I heard about Co Chocolat when looking for a way to celebrate Valentine’s Day with my wife! There was a chocolate making event that I discovered and was the perfect way to combine our love with our love of chocolate 😋

Tara:
I heard about Co Chocolat through Juma, as he said. And boy am I glad I did!

2. How would you describe your work, vocation, or passion, and what do you find most fulfilling about it?

Juma:
As a multimedia producer I’m passionate about bringing creative ideas to life. Whether it’s product photos, brand campaigns, social media content or event coverage I love seeing a plan come together from start to finish. It’s so fulfilling to take an idea from scratch and come up with a plan, capture the idea, edit it to tell a story and deliver satisfying results.

Tara:
I am a nurse. I am fortunate to have found a career that’s taken me across America and allowed me to work in 3 different countries now as well. While every day isn’t spectacular, it’s an amazing feeling to know that I made a difference in someone’s life. My hands have been intimately involved in saving people’s lives, as well as allowing them to pass when it is their time. I don’t think anything can compare to the fulfillment my job gives me.

3. How have your life experiences and exposure to different cultures shaped your perspective on the world?

Juma:
Experiencing different cultures and seeing different parts of the world has given me a more well rounded perspective. I’ve noticed that we all have more in common than we think and that allows us to connect in ways we might not have thought were possible. Plus there is always something to learn from everyone you meet.

Tara:
My view on the world has completely shifted since we started to travel. Growing up I didn’t travel much and was ok with that. You sort of get used to a routine. Once we started traveling, I learned I had a lot of pre misconceptions of people that I assumed were all true, just from what I’d heard or read. Meeting someone where they are from and learning their way of life changes something in you. Traveling makes you judge others less and yourself more. It helps you appreciate this amazing planet and all of the incredible people on it.

4. Do you have any advice for our community, especially for those who are still exploring their path?

Juma:
Keep chasing after what interests you. That thing that gives you a spark, the thing you love talking about, keep being consistent and you will find your way. Make as many connections along the way as you can and look for ways how you can give first rather than take.

Tara:
Put yourself out there. Make yourself uncomfortable. If people see you do it, they will follow. Take risks, explore, experience as much as possible. Life is so short and we don’t know when our time here is over. Live each day like it is your last. Drink the coffee, eat the chocolate (from Co Chocolat) and have no regrets.

5. Which Co Chocolat products do you love the most?

Juma:
A day in the cafe isn’t complete without the Mayan spicy hot chocolate. I’ve been telling all my family members about how they have to try it when they visit! Along with the any of the dark chocolate bars of course!

Tara:
I love the conscious cookies!! Every time we go, we have to get one. They’re huge, they’re chewy, they’re dangerously tasty. And as far as cookies go- they’re pretty healthy! We’ve also tried multiple chocolate drinks, hot and cold, and they’re all amazing. There’s something for everyone and every temperature!