Videri’s owner Sam recruited Hannah from the Wake Tech Baking & Pastry Arts Associate's Degree program in the summer of 2021. He was there judging a pastry contest and was impressed by her creations and poise. Next thing she knew, she was working in a chocolate factory.

A Bar-Puller, A Baker, A Croissant Stick Maker…

Meet: Hannah Councilman

Hometown: Bear Creek, NC

Worked at Videri Since: 2021

Position: Chocolate Maker, Chocolatier, & Confectioner

Hey, Hannah! Why work at a chocolate factory?

Why wouldn’t anyone want to work at a chocolate factory? It’s one of the most unique jobs out there, and I never get tired of seeing people’s reactions when they ask what I do for work. I especially love working at Videri because of everyone’s passion and love for what we do. We’re pretty crazy over chocolate, and it’s a really neat feeling.

What do you love most about working at Videri?

I love how creative* we get to be. Our team is always working on something new - whether it’s a new chocolate bar, a more efficient way to get something done, or making small adjustments to a signature staple, we’re always working towards making the highest quality, best tasting product.

*Note from the editor: speaking of creativity: Hannah’s the mastermind behind our milk chocolate crunch bar !

What is your favorite task to do here?

Everyone who works here knows I’m “the” croissant stick maker. I’ve always enjoyed it. I think because it’s so different from making chocolate bars and is an excuse to get messy.

What’s your favorite seasonal bonbon, and why?

My current favorite bonbon has to be our Tea & Cookies. It has all my favorite things in one bite. I’m a huuuuge fan of Earl Grey tea. So, I like to find excuses to use it in recipes on the daily. The ganache in this bonbon is so rich and creamy, and the cookie crumble on the top is so addictive. There’s nothing more crave-worthy than a sweet, salty, chocolatey treat.

If you could travel anywhere, where would you choose?

Europe!!! I’m a huge foodie, and the vast varieties and styles of food in Europe amaze me. The landscapes, architecture, and cultures are something I’m so interested in and want to experience. Plus, they have chocolate over there, too. So, I want to see what they’re up to and how they might do things differently than we do.

Thank you so much for chatting with us, Hannah. We’re so grateful to have you on our team! Cheers to many more years of chocolate-making magic. ✨