An award-winning chocolatier has said a "dream has come true" after opening her first shop.

Loyal customers couldn't wait to visit Emporium Norwich over the weekend, which has opened at Hellesdon Barns Garden Centre, with some even travelling all the way from Essex for the occasion. 

Brazillian-born Marcela Da Costa launched the business in December 2019 while on maternity leave with her daughter Manuela.

Norwich Evening News: Emporium Norwich was busy with customers as soon as it openedEmporium Norwich was busy with customers as soon as it opened (Image: Owen Sennitt)

Working from her kitchen initially, the business grew in success and she now ships handmade chocolates across the UK.

She said: "I feel so grateful for the amount of love and support I've received.

"I always dreamed about having my own shop and now it has come true."

Norwich Evening News: Mrs Da Costa specialises in making brigadeiros, a Brazilian delicacyMrs Da Costa specialises in making brigadeiros, a Brazilian delicacy (Image: Brittany Woodman)

Mrs Da Costa specialises in the Brazilian delicacy Brigadeiro, which is similar to a chocolate truffle, a product that has earned her a Great Taste award.

"Brigadeiros are a delicious treat," she said. "It is amazing to introduce them to people here and share a bit of Brazilian culture with Norwich."

Production has moved from her home to the shop, where she sells her range of chocolate treats as well as freshly-made cakes, scones, coffees and much more.

Norwich Evening News: One of the many freshly made cakes on offer at Emporium NorwichOne of the many freshly made cakes on offer at Emporium Norwich (Image: Brittany Woodman)

She added: "There have been a few challenges and I'm still finding my feet but I am really excited for the future of the business and I'm learning what works best for me and the customers.

"It is such a cosy environment and it was so lovely to see customers who had never met before chatting away with each other. 

"I have some amazing people involved in this journey who are all rooting for our success."

Norwich Evening News: From cakes to crumpets, there is lots to try at Emporium NorwichFrom cakes to crumpets, there is lots to try at Emporium Norwich (Image: Brittany Woodman)

Emporium Norwich, located off Hellesdon Road, is open from Tuesday to Friday between 10am and 4pm, on Saturday between 10am and 3pm and on Sunday from 11.30am to 2pm but opening times may vary.