About us
The home of personalised chocolates
Discover the delightful world of Cocoapod, where a passion for chocolate, colour, texture, and design thrives. Located in gorgeous Oxfordshire on the edge of the Cotswolds, we create small batch handmade chocolates and sweet treats for every occasion, ensuring each box is crafted with care and attention to detail.
At the heart of Cocoapod lies a family-run business, the brand was founded nearly 20 years ago by sisters Phillipa and Linda and is now spearheaded by sisters-in-laws, Laila and Sarah, along with Sarah’s husband, Sam. We even get the older children involved during busy times!
We want you to have fun with our flavours and colourfull handmade chocolate creating lovely gifts and treats for all your friends and family.
We use only the best couverture chocolate which is ethically sourced and packaging that is sustainable and recyclable when possible.
We hope you have fun exploring our varied range of chocolates and sweets.
Meet the team
Laila
I’m Laila, and I wear multiple hats as the Co-Owner and Director of Cocoapod. With a diverse background spanning professional chocolatier, design management, finance, retail and e-commerce management, I’ve channeled my skills and passion into crafting delectable, handmade chocolate messages.
Laila
I’m Laila, and I wear multiple hats as the Co-Owner and Director of Cocoapod. With a diverse background spanning professional chocolatier, design management, finance, retail and e-commerce management, I’ve channeled my skills and passion into crafting delectable, handmade chocolate messages.
I’m not just about creating chocolates; I’m on a mission to bring the best, most heartwarming chocolate messages to our customers.
When I’m not busy in the world of chocolates, you’ll find me exploring my other passions. I love getting lost in hours of studying genealogy, enjoying leisurely walks in the picturesque Oxfordshire countryside, and I relish the tranquility of rural life. I’m also a devoted animal lover, sharing my home with dogs, cats, toads, guinea pigs, and even a super cute tortoise.
Beyond my work and hobbies, my life revolves around family. With my amazingly supportive husband, I’m a proud parent to two wonderful children and have the privilege of being a part of the lives of three incredible stepchildren. They keep me on my toes and fill my spare moments with love and laughter.
At Cocoapod, we’re more than just chocolatiers; we’re your partners in creating sweet and meaningful moments. Join us in the world of handcrafted chocolate and experience the magic of heartfelt messages in every bite.
Welcome to our chocolate family!
Sarah
I’m Sarah, and I’m on a mission to make the world of chocolate not only scrumptious but sustainable. My aim is to help make Cocoapod as ethical and eco-friendly as possible without compromising on the quality of the products we send out.
Sarah
I’m Sarah, and I’m on a mission to make the world of chocolate not only scrumptious but sustainable. My aim is to help make Cocoapod as ethical and eco-friendly as possible without compromising on the quality of the products we send out.
We source our ingredients responsibly, use eco-conscious packaging, and support ethical practices across the chocolate-making process. It’s not just about creating chocolates; it’s about making a difference, one delicious bite at a time.
When I’m not making chocolates, you’ll generally find me dancing, writing, or running around with my two kids.
Chloe
I’m Chloe, a chocolatier and art enthusiast, armed with a degree in illustration. My mission is simple: I’m here to help grow Cocoapod and take the business to the next level. Creating chocolates is my canvas, and with my illustration background, I add a touch of creativity to every piece I create.
Chloe
I’m Chloe, a chocolatier and art enthusiast, armed with a degree in illustration. My mission is simple: I’m here to help grow Cocoapod and take the business to the next level. Creating chocolates is my canvas, and with my illustration background, I add a touch of creativity to every piece I create. I want our chocolates to be not just a treat but an experience.
When I’m not in the workshop, I’m hitting the gym to stay energised and motivated. Horticulture and botany also captivate me, offering a therapeutic escape as I tend to my plants.
But my true passion lies in drawing. It’s where my ideas take form, and my imagination flourishes. As an illustrator and designer, I aim to infuse my creative flair into our brand’s identity.
I’m looking forward to creating a box of chocolates for you, your friends and family!
Penny
I am Penny, I work part-time at Cocoapod to help with the family business, I’m Laila’s Aunt! I’m a general helper and do whatever is needed. It might be making chocolate or packing the boxes ready for posting. My favourite task is putting the chocolate messages together and imagining the fun and joy they bring to the recipients. It’s nice to think you’ve been part of someone’s carefully created gift.
Penny
I am Penny, I work part-time at Cocoapod to help with the family business, I’m Laila’s Aunt! I’m a general helper and do whatever is needed. It might be making chocolate or packing the boxes ready for posting. My favourite task is putting the chocolate messages together and imagining the fun and joy they bring to the recipients. It’s nice to think you’ve been part of someone’s carefully created gift.
I have retired from my career in the civil service. When I’m not at Cocoapod I love to play with my grandchildren, bake and take yoga classes.
Carol
I’m Carol, I am Laila’s Mum and Sarah’s mother-in-law AKA “The Mothership.” I’m the go-to person for just about anything that needs to be done around here, from washing and polishing those pesky chocolate molds to creating beautiful chocolate messages that bring joy to people’s faces.
Carol
I’m Carol, I am Laila’s Mum and Sarah’s mother-in-law AKA “The Mothership.” I’m the go-to person for just about anything that needs to be done around here, from washing and polishing those pesky chocolate molds to creating beautiful chocolate messages that bring joy to people’s faces.
Even though I’m officially retired, my passion for making people smile has always been there. Back in the day, my husband and I ran a hotel, we absolutely loved it. We poured our hearts into creating a warm and welcoming haven for all our guests, and the memories from those times still make us smile.
Beyond my chocolatey adventures, you’ll often find me at a cozy coffee shop with friends, savoring a cappuccino and sharing stories and laughter. I may hit the gym now and then, but let’s be honest; it’s mostly about that post-workout coffee fix. And the absolute highlight of my life? Spending quality time with my husband, and four incredible grandchildren making precious memories that will last a lifetime.
Jenny
I’m Jenny, a versatile individual with a passion for creating beautiful chocolate boxes and packaging at Cocoapod. I take pride in ensuring that every package leaving Cocoapod is a masterpiece, thanks to my meticulous attention to detail.
Jenny
I’m Jenny, a versatile individual with a passion for creating beautiful chocolate boxes and packaging at Cocoapod. I take pride in ensuring that every package leaving Cocoapod is a masterpiece, thanks to my meticulous attention to detail.
Beyond my work at Cocoapod, I wear several hats. I own a small quilting business, where I design quilts and offer private tutoring. My background includes a Bachelor’s degree in fine arts, a therapeutic filtering certificate from Greenwich University, and a Level 4 sewing machine technician certification – all of which fuel my love for crafting and creating.
Originally a New Yorker, I’ve happily called Oxfordshire home for 24 years, sharing my life with my husband and our beloved pets. I find immense pleasure in sewing, nurturing my garden, and discovering cozy pubs after a delightful countryside walk with my husband and our gorgeous dog, nutmeg. I’m an enthusiastic and supportive member of the Cocoapod team, always ready to lend a helping hand.
