Dylan Lauren, owner of Dylan’s Candy Bar, on recession-proof sweets, her love of Willy Wonka, turning candy into art, and how her new joint serves both candy and booze.

Favorite Hangs: J.G. Melon on 74th and Third Avenue. It's nostalgic to me. I grew up going there with my family. I like the cozy décor and tavern feel, the old-school waiters, the food and the outdoor seating. I also like Cafe Bacio On 71st and First Avenue. The two owners are nice guys and entrepreneurs as well. They make a delicious nonfat vanilla chai tea latte which I have to get my day started.

How did you get your start in the candy business? I am a candy connoisseur and started by attending the candy trade shows and meeting the owners and CEOs of major American candy brands

What were you doing before? I ran my own event planning company called Dylan Creative Events.

Industry Icons: In the candy industry I admire Roald Dahl, who created Willy Wonka and made candy inventors seem so creative. I also admire the CEOs of candy brands who are very creative, think out of the box, and take brands that have been around for over 75 years and constantly re-invent them, such as Herm Rowland who owns Jelly Belly; Sal Ferrara, owner of Ferrara Pan; and Richard Ross, who owns Galerie Au Chocolate.

Is chocolate recession-proof? Yes! At Dylan's Candy Bar, we have seen an increase in sales of chocolate and candy during hard times like 9/11, war, and the falling stock market.

What was your favorite candy as a kid? Cherry lollipops and Bazooka.

And now? Bazooka, marshmallows, and red licorice laces.

Who are your partners? I seek advice from my father [fashion designer Ralph Lauren].

Side Hustle: I create art out of candy as a hobby, like mosaics out of gumballs and furniture with candy wrappers. One day I may host a show in my store.

Projections: I am working on a Dylan's Candy Bar book to show how to celebrate holidays and special occasions using candy to decorate. We are looking to open in Los Angeles and Las Vegas. In our NYC flagship we are opening a candy cocktail bar and lounge with real drinks.

What are you doing tonight? Going to dinner and a film.