The beautiful little chocolate shop is tucked into a strip mall in one of Toronto’s most exclusive neighbourhoods.
On the front door is a sign that reads, “I Believe … that you can keep going long after you think you can’t.” The author of the quote is unknown, but it is the mantra of the owner, a woman as beautiful as the tasty chocolates she has sold for the last 25 years.
When you first meet Ingrid Laederach Steven you would never know the traumatic turning points that have shaped her life. As a teen, her dream of becoming a professional singer was dashed when she damaged her vocal chords. She suffered a life threatening heart attack on an airplane and had seven miscarriages while trying to start a family. “I kept persevering,” Ingrid says, “I kept telling myself, it’s going to happen – it’s going to happen.”
These were dark moments for Ingrid but she knew that life would get better. She opened up Swiss Master Chocolatier in Toronto. Hollywood celebrities, presidents, royalty, a pope and even astronauts have all nibbled her amazing truffles and treats.
As you read Ingrid’s story, the “I Believe” sign on her front door takes on a new meaning. Remember the seven miscarriages? Ingrid finally gave birth to two beautiful daughters and now she has four grandchildren to spoil and love. “Every day I realize I’m lucky. So lucky.” But for us looking in on Ingrid’s life we realize we’re the lucky ones. She’s shown us that not all turning points in life are happy ones but with a little dose of optimism, hope – and a few chocolates – we can all “Believe.”
