My Story
I’m Don Collins — a father, a fighter, and a lifelong cook turned candy maker.
Before I ever poured chocolate or cracked a pecan, I spent most of my life in kitchens as a sous chef. I’ve worked behind the line, under pressure, building flavor with nothing but a hot pan and some soul. That’s where I learned discipline, timing, and how to create something out of nothing.
But life has its twists. In 2023, I was diagnosed with cancer. That moment changed everything. What followed were treatments, exhaustion, and moments where I didn’t know what came next. But I held on. I found comfort in candy — not just eating it, but making it. Crafting sweets became a way to stay grounded. It gave me something to fight for.
I’ve faced setbacks. I’ve had moments of doubt. I’ve had to start over more than once. But through it all, I keep moving forward. Dee’s Candies isn’t just a business — it’s proof that even when life gets bitter, there’s still room for something sweet.
I’m proud of what I’ve built — and proud to share it with you.
Our history
Dee’s Candies was founded in 2015 in California, but its roots go deeper — all the way to Louisiana, where our family’s love for sweet things began.
Growing up, sweets weren’t just treats — they were tradition. Our family always celebrated with something made by hand, whether it was stovetop pralines or homemade candies passed down through generations. That Louisiana flavor still inspires everything we make.
The name “Dee” comes from family, too — a tribute to strength, warmth, and doing things the right way. We brought those values west, and in 2015, Dee’s Candies officially came to life.
From the beginning, we’ve done things with care: small batches, real ingredients, and no shortcuts. We started simple — selling in salons, barbershops, and at local markets. People tried our candy, told their friends, and came back for more. That’s how we grew — through word of mouth and a whole lot of hustle.
Today, we’ve expanded our lineup to include sugar-free options and creative new flavors. But the mission remains the same: to make candy that feels homemade, tastes unforgettable, and carries the legacy of where we come from.
Dee’s Candies is built on tradition, rooted in love, and made to be shared.
Thank you for being part of this journey.
Every candy I make is a piece of where I’ve been and where I’m headed. Whether you’re a first-time customer or a day-one supporter, I appreciate you more than you know.