20 Years of Christmas: In the Chocolate Kitchen with Andrea

Celebrating 20 Years of the Highland Chocolatier

This year mark's 20 years of Christmas with the Highland Chocolatier, and in order to celebrate, we'll be introducing you to the team that has helped make it possible year after year - to share their memories and experiences of working here and what it means to them.

An Interview with Andrea!

Meet Andrea 

Andrea has been part of The Highland Chocolatier since 2012, and as our Senior Dispatcher & Workflow Controller she has helped make fourteen Christmases happen. We asked her about the people, the pressure and the magic of the season.

How long have you worked at The Highland Chocolatier?

Fourteen years.

What makes you stay?

I think it’s the people, the atmosphere and the fact that every day is a little different. Over the years, I’ve made good friends here, and the company has become a very important part of my life. After 14 years, it feels like a second home, like being part of one big family!

What’s the best part of the work at Christmas?

I love the special Christmas atmosphere and being part of creating all the chocolates and orders that make Christmas special for our customers. It’s a busy time, but there's something really special about working together as a team.

What’s the most stressful thing that happens at Christmas?

Definitely the pressure to get everything finished on time! Sometimes it can be stressful, but we support each other and do our best to get everything done. We always want a high standard, and sometimes there just aren’t enough hours in the day.

What’s a stand-out memory of a past Christmas?

My favourite memories are the fun we’ve had with colleagues over the years. I especially remember a Christmas hat with a drawing made by one of my colleagues, which made us feel like Santa’s little helpers.

What was the best Christmas ever at work?

The best Christmases are the ones when everyone pulls together as a team. There’s such a good feeling when you can look around at your colleagues and think… we did it! Those are the moments that stay with you.

How do you keep yourself cheerful and motivated, year after year?

We support each other, have a laugh and try to stay positive, even when things get stressful. After 14 years, I’ve learned that teamwork makes a big difference. And when you enjoy working with the people around you, it makes even the hardest days easier.

In closing…

I have gained a lot of experience over the past 14 years, but what is truly valuable to me is not only the work but the people I have met. When I look back on this period I remember not only the work, but also the laughter we shared, the happy moments, and the people who made these years special.