TIFA Chocolate & Gelato

TIFA is a family-owned chocolate and gelato shop located in Agoura Hills, CA. I met with the owners, visited the shop, and was showered with free, delicious samples. After a talk with the one of the owners, Candace, I was inspired by her warmth and character to create a rebrand of TIFA with the concept: kaleidoscopic.

TIFA Chocolate & Gelato is for youthful adventurers out in the world! People who are always on the lookout for the newest, yummiest fun. The concept is to be saturated in color, curiosity, and exploration. Every TIFA product will be a photo-worthy kaleidoscopic explosion of fun. 

The finished product was featured on thedieline.com. The colors aim to excite and arouse, the fun qualities emit a warmness, and the playful shapes reminiscent of gems. Photography by James Chou.

Interviews

“During Christmas time, my mom would put chocolate candies in our stockings that reminded her of our personalities. One year, I got a pear chocolate because I’m her little pear.” Perrin K.

"I have chocolate almost everyday because it makes me happy. Sugar is my drug.” Jessica S.

"Mom and pop shops offer more handmade items also, chain stores have no looooove.” Ron S.

Process

TIFA is a family-run shop that is loved by its local community. Its current look is earthy with a splash of vintage. However, the look falls into a style that many other shops have adapted. So, to make TIFA stand out, I decided to make it personal. I felt the owners’ passions and love towards their creations. Candace was always smiling, friendly and giving—so I knew I wanted to capture the feeling of meeting Candace into the new identity.

Chocolate has a great connection to childhood and can always bring smilies and happiness. You can walk into TIFA and automatically smile from the scent of sweets. With the people of TIFA as inspiration, I decided the new identity would be colorful, approachable, nostalgic, charming, and whimsical.