Savannah’s Candy Kitchen, the iconic Southern candy store and confectionery that has made Georgia pralines a worldwide favorite, held its inaugural Founder’s Day celebration honoring and remembering founder Stan “The Candy Man” Strickland on his 81st birthday. Ten percent of all praline sales, in stores and online, benefited People of Action Caring for Kids (P.A.C.K.) Savannah, a non-profit that provides weekend meals for food-insecure children in Chatham County. The event took place all day at Savannah’s Candy Kitchen locations, as well as through mail order and online sales.

Stan Strickland, the visionary behind Savannah’s Candy Kitchen, built a family legacy rooted in Southern tradition, handcrafted confections, and a dedication to quality that continued to define the brand. Founder’s Day paid tribute to his legacy, celebrating his commitment to quality, community, and the sweet joys of life.

“My mission was to preserve my father’s legacy and give him all the credit and gratitude he deserved for shaping our family’s role in this industry. It was a privilege and a joy that we wanted to share with the community, and Founder’s Day was the perfect way to support a worthy cause,” said Rhett Strickland, co-owner of Savannah’s Candy Kitchen, alongside his mother, Tonya Strickland.

During the celebrations, customers enjoyed the delicious, hand-crafted pralines that have made Savannah’s Candy Kitchen and the city of its founding synonymous with the beloved Southern pecan treat, knowing that their purchase supported a meaningful cause in the community.

"Our hearts were full knowing Savannah's Candy Kitchen supported our mission. Stan Strickland's impact on this community was undeniable, and we were honored to be part of his enduring legacy of caring for Savannah's children," said Malena Stone, founder and CEO of P.A.C.K.

Savannah’s Candy Kitchen offers classic Southern sweets, including pralines, chocolates, brittles, cakes, and pies, from its flagship store on River Street and celebrated City Market location, as well as locations across the Southeast and beyond, including Atlanta, Nashville, and Maryland. Visitors were drawn in by the bright lights, swinging jazz, free samples, and the irresistible aroma of fresh candy. The goal had always been to make people happy and connect them to their childhood and fond family memories.

“My dad got more out of helping people and making them happy than anything else. I loved that about him. He just wasn't in it for fame or money; it was truly a passion,” Strickland added.