It all started in 2007 when we met Daniel Palix, one of the best French caramel makers of his time. M. Palix, nearing retirement, wanted to pass on his proprietary recipes to the next generation of entrepreneurs who would carefully continue his legacy. As luck would have it, we were invited to travel around France for a year with M. Palix, learning how to manufacture and sell traditional French caramel.

Having enjoyed many summers in sunny southern California with Christen’s family, we moved to the U.S. in 2008. Shortly after we founded the Le Caramel factory in San Diego, using the exact copper bowls and caramel-making equipment M. Palix used in France.

Today, we have grown from a one product business—authentic French sea salt caramel candies—to a large manufacturing candy boutique offering award-winning sweets from Le Caramel, hand-curated artisan gift boxes from Pleasant Surprises and corporate promotional items from Branded Gifts Plus. 

Many of our handmade gift boxes include Le Caramel treats. Some include historic designs from local artist Sue Bernabe, Christen’s lovely and talented mother. All gift boxes are handmade to order (we specialize in bulk orders!) with the options of including champagne and wine, a personalized message and custom imprinted ribbon—with the design or company logo of your choice.

From our business to yours, Pleasant Surprises is here to supply you with incredible gift options for your most deserving customers, rewarding employees and everyone in between. 

Our niche is custom orders, so please send a welcoming email sharing about your business and gifting needs. We’re excited to meet you and cannot wait to begin our journey with you!

Fondly,
Christen & Vincent Kugener
Owners of Pleasant Surprises