Maxi, a German native, grew up with a deep love for candy. However, after being diagnosed with an autoimmune condition and moving to the U.S. in 2019, she began searching for healthier alternatives. Disappointed by the unpleasant aftertastes and textures of existing low-sugar candies, she was motivated to create her own. Driven by her passion and "German engineering," Maxi spent years developing a recipe. She earned a nutrition science certificate from Stanford and, in 2024, launched Häppy Candy in New York. The brand, which is a "love letter" to German sweets, offers a clean, low-sugar, vegan gummy made with natural flavors and no artificial sweeteners. The company aims to provide a tasty, better-for-you treat that celebrates life's simple pleasures.