Bowling Green favorite “Mary Jane’s Chocolates” sets reopen date

Mary Jane’s Chocolates officially closed its doors on Saturday, April 19...for about a half a year

BOWLING GREEN, Ky (WNKY) — After closing its doors earlier this year, Mary Jane’s Chocolates is set to return to Bowling Green with new flavors, new plans and the same sweet tradition.

Owner Marie Bryant announced the official reopening date.

“We’ve finally settled on Saturday, October 25th. That’s going to be our opening day,” she said.

The business, founded by Bryant’s mother, Mary Jane Meszaros, has long been a staple for handmade sweets and locally inspired chocolates. Bryant said stepping into her mother’s role has been both exciting and humbling.

“It’s a lot of pressure to fully take over the business, but I feel a deep sense of gratefulness for the opportunity. I just hope that I can live up to everyone’s expectations and hopes for it,” she said.

The shop will continue offering community favorites like bourbon truffles, caramels and Bowling Green’s iconic White Squirrels.

“We’ll continue offering the White Squirrels for sure. That is a Bowling Green necessity,” Bryant said. “It’s really important for me to bring those signature things that people are looking for, but then also build on other tastes and trends.”

At the same time, she plans to add new products, including plant-based chocolates and flavors inspired by unity across the country. “I have some new Kentucky bourbon ideas up my sleeve,” she added.

The new location located at 870 Fairview Ave. , set in a former hair salon just off of Bowling Green’s bypass, offers room for more than just candy cases. The upstairs will allow for birthday parties, field trips and even hands-on chocolate-making.

“There’s a whole upstairs with a lot of possibilities. We’ll be able to host parties, let kids make chocolate, even have meeting space. We’re just thrilled to expand what we’re able to offer to the community,” Bryant said.

Even with all the changes, she said the outpouring of community support has given her confidence to move forward quickly. A Facebook post announcing the return drew thousands of interactions.

“I was so overwhelmed by the amount of support for me taking it over and for me bringing back the chocolate shop,” she said. “I kept looking at it like, is this serious or am I dreaming?”

Bryant said she hopes the shop’s return brings more than just sweets to Bowling Green.

“I really hope it’s a positive message in the community. In a time where everything’s been rough, everything is so stressful, I love that chocolate kind of bridges the gap of people,” she said. “I’m really looking forward to bringing some sunshine and happiness to the community.”