Houlton native has ‘Sweet Dreams’

12 years ago

By Lisa Wilcox
Staff Writer
    CARIBOU — “If you want to view paradise, simply look around and view it.” That is a line from the song “Pure Imagination,” featured in the movie “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory,” and no truer words could be spoken by sweets lovers when they look around and view the many delectable treats contained inside Sweet Dreams Candy & Bake Shoppe, a new candy store and bakery opened last year by Sharon and Brian Bickford at 7 Water St. in Caribou.

    The Bickfords are no strangers to Water St. Their dog grooming business, Tail’s End Grooming, has been located there for several years. The grooming business, now a neighbor to Sweet Dreams, has been taken over by the Bickfords’ son Levi, leaving Sharon and Brian time to work on fulfilling their 30-year dream of owning and operating a nostalgic candy store and bakery.
    “Brian was sick last year,” Sharon explained at the store’s open house on Sept. 8. “After he got better, we wondered what we were waiting for and decided to go for it.”
    The store not only features gourmet and old-fashioned candy such as multi-flavored licorice vines, gumballs and penny candy, but also has a bakery where they will be baking breads, muffins, scones, cupcakes and cookies. They make their own marshmallows and will customize candy bouquets and buffets for all occasions and events.
    Sweet Dreams also features artisan soda made in Portland and candies made in Vermont. There is also a section for those who like to enjoy an occasional sweet treat but require a sugar-free option.
    Much to the Bickfords’ delight, the store has been busy since its opening. The family invites everyone to stop by and see what unique treats they have to offer.  Hours of operation are Mon – Thurs 7 a.m. – 6 p.m., Fri 7 a.m. – 9 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., and closed on Sun. Those interested in the store and their customized candy bouquets or buffets may also visit their website at www.sweetdreamsco.com.