Dylan Lauren may be the daughter of legendary designer Ralph Lauren, but she has created her own übersuccessful empire with her chain of Dylan’s Candy Bars. Willy Wonka himself would barely be able to contain his excitement within the candy-crammed boutiques. And while Lauren plans on bringing her deliciously sweet business to the Left Coast next year, the connection between Hollywood and candy is already well established. We caught up with Lauren to talk about candy’s undeniable appeal.
Why do you think you’ve had so many celebs in your store?
DYLAN LAUREN: No matter how old, successful or famous people are, they immediately become a kid around candy. One of the biggest attractions at Dylan’s is its Famous Favorites. It’s a hall of fame of celebrities who visit and autograph a Dylan’s Candy Bar mini bin and fill it with their favorite candy. Hundreds of stars, including Oprah, Steven Spielberg, Jon Bon Jovi, Beyoncé and Al Pacino, have bins. Even First Lady Michelle Obama purchased candy and candy clothing with her daughters at Dylan’s Candy Bar, but she didn’t get a chance to sign a bin because the store was mobbed with fans.
Who are some of your famous regulars we may be surprised to know have a sweet tooth?
DL: President Bill Clinton has made coming to the store with his nephew an annual outing for three consecutive years. His personal favorite candy is the PayDay, even when he’s watching his weight. The Purple Majesty himself, Prince, approached me to make his commemorative concert candy bar this year. Madonna launched her Hard Candy album at the store, and the staff stocked the green room with her favorite treat, Hot Tamales. Not only did New York Yankee Alex Rodriguez attribute the 2009 World Series win partially to Dylan’s Oreo Cheesecake ice cream, but he also brought tons of Dylan’s Candy Bar treats to Miami for his daughters’ birthday parties.
In addition to celebrities coming to Dylan’s, you’ve also had TV and films shot there.
DL: Yes, the store has been a colorful backdrop for such shows as Keeping Up with the Kardashians, The Millionaire Matchmaker, Gossip Girl and several films, including Hitch. When Dylan’s launches a new store in LA next year, I’m sure it will be a destination for shows, celebrities and anyone who wants to ignite their creativity and inner child!
