Ginger Elizabeth Chocolates, Small Business of the Year

Believing that “great chocolate starts with the finest ingredients,” Ginger has built decade-long relationships with trusted Northern California purveyors, reflecting her dedication to quality, sustainability, and farm-to-table practices. 

Chocolatier Ginger Elizabeth Hahn’s journey into the world of handcrafted confections began in the orchards of Northern California’s “Apple Hill.” As a child, she spent her days picking blackberries by the pond and harvesting apples—experiences that ignited her passion for creating sweet treats with the freshest local ingredients.

Ginger honed her skills through hands-on experience in New York City, where she fell in love with the art of luxurious confections. In 2007, she opened her first retail shop in Sacramento, helping to revitalize the Handle District, earning the love of Sacramentans, and building a fan base across the nation.

Orozco is a gold level sponsor for the West Sac Little League, and is the creator of the West Sac Annual School Supply Drive, West Sac Feminine Hygiene Product Drive, and Annual Care Package Event where children create over 1000 care packages for unhoused West Sacramentans. In addition, she supports the West Sac Active Aging Community with her annual “Yarn Raiser” which solicits donations of yarn which is used to create blankets, scarves, and hats to warm the neediest and most vulnerable residents in West Sacramento.

An innovator at heart, Ginger is the creator of the exclusive Frozen Macaron Sandwich—a signature blend of her artisanal macarons and inventive ice creams. Her work has been celebrated by national press including The Wall Street Journal, Martha Stewart, Eater, and Food & Wine, which praised her shop as ‘one of the sunniest—and still, quite serious—chocolate shops on our list. Everything feels fresh and fun.’

Her ability to build a thriving business while raising three children inspires other women striving to balance ambitious careers with family life. Ginger’s story demonstrates that passion and perseverance can blend professional success with creativity and personal fulfillment.

Through her workshops and online classes, Ginger has taught over 10,000 aspiring confectioners across the country. Her book, The Macaron Cookbook, has sold over 5,000 copies nationwide, and her Instagram community has grown to more than 50,000 followers who enjoy her chocolate-making adventures.