Carmen del Solar Almenara manages Tejas del Solar, a privately-owned business that manufactures and sells special, hand-made chocolates under the brand name Tejas.
Carmen was born in Peru and now lives in Sydney. She began her professional career in tourism, specialising in conferences and incentives but she now relishes her role in the exotic world of chocolates. This came about through an amazing series of events, challenges and experiences.
This venture brings together her combined Australian and Peruvian heritage.
The business grew from her hobby and the kernel of an idea to tell cultural stories through sweet treats. The idea progressed to an innovative product that introduced a new taste to chocolates.
Tejas del Solar is committed to the integrity of its product at every stage of the business’s development.
With a selection of 12 rare flavours, Tejas (pronounced teh-has) were inspired by colonial days when handcrafted sweets were a sought-after delicacy.
Tejas are a delicious combination of Australian fruit and nuts with Peruvian manjarblanco (a sweet mixture of milk, vanilla beans and sugar simmered for a few hours until it reaches a rich texture) and all coated in a luscious Belgian chocolate. Tejas is a product that stands out in the market with its own with unusual, surprising and delicious flavours.
“The chocolates are prepared by hand in small batches to better control the quality of the product, which makes each piece unique,” she said.
Carmen began the business in 2006.
“Initially four varieties of Tejas in a traditionally large size were prepared in the family kitchen and sold directly to the public at farmers’ markets. With a high reliance on word-of-mouth, orders started increasing and a commercial kitchen was set up. We have expanded to 12 flavours and Tejas are now offered in two sizes,” she said.
Today, Carmen’s business is expanding nationally and enjoying increasing sales.
Her Tejas are sold directly on her website at www.tejasdelsolar.com.au and are available for wholesaling to specialist chocolate shops, gourmet outlets, restaurants and caterers.
Carmen is one of the true success stories of the Women in Manufacturing Network which is convened by Industry and Investment NSW.
Carmen was involved with the Women in Manufacturing Network since day one and has participated in many of its activities including breakfast seminars, mini-expos, and speed networking functions.
“I find the Women in Manufacturing Network very inspiring,” Carmen said.
“It is an organisation that gives us, the members, an invaluable opportunity to share experiences, information and advice.
“This comes about in a friendly, welcoming and supportive environment that the network manages to create.
“I am happy to be a part of such a productive group,” Carmen said.