Chocolates by Michelle is one of a kind.

October 10, 12:47 PMPasco County Food ExaminerSusan Slade

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Chocolate dipped potato chips and breast cancer chocolates.

 Michelle had just $2,600 to fund her business venture 24 years ago. She was told that she would not make it on that kind of money and they were right. Within 2 weeks her money was almost gone and possibly her dream. Luckily for her, the St. Petersburg Times came through with an article telling everyone that the money she saved from giving up cigarettes, was the only funding for her business. This was the break she hoped for from writer Jan Gildwell to get new customers and the support she desperately needed.

Today I visited her at Chocolates by Michelle, in Gulf View Square Mall, Port Richey. She has a beautiful shop full of the most mouthwatering, incredible chocolates you have ever seen, and I am not exaggerating. This lady and her team certainly know their craft. I walked up and down the shop looking at chocolate designs that you will only find in a one of a kind shop, such as hers.

I wanted to know the whole story and even in an hour I don't think we made a big dent in it. This lady came from New York and was in the banking field, a waitress, and a caterer. She used to go to people's homes with prepared food from appetizers to dessert. I think dessert says it all.

She started out in a small unit up on Seawood Drive, and after a couple more moves, ended up where she belongs in a spacious shop at our local mall. I am amazed that she started with just two molds and 1 pound of chocolate.

This lady creates chocolate goodies in front of your eyes. While I was chatting with her she made a rose by lovingly molding chocolate in her hands and I could see the passion she has for her trade.

Michelle appreciates what she has and loves to give back to our community. She gives scholarships to local schools and does ongoing charity work in the Pasco, Hillsborough, and Pinelles counties.

Michelle Palisi is an inspiration to us all.

This is the first part of her story.