Step through the forest portal into Chocolate Elk, where whimsy meets culinary mastery in every bite. Founded by passionate chocolatier Annette LoBue with deep roots in Colorado's majestic landscapes, our journey began in the cozy corners of Chicago's northwest suburbs. From 2010 to 2016, a monthly book club became my sanctuary—a pack of kindred spirits escaping into stories over wine and laughter. I'd arrive with homemade caramels, each one a small act of affection, a way to bond and celebrate the simple joy of connection. Little did I know, those caramels were planting seeds of obsession.

When my caramels sparked a brotherly tussle—one sibling tackling the other over the last piece—I realized this was more than a hobby. Years of curating ingredients followed: organic heavy cream, cane sugar (no corn syrup), real fruit purées, fresh spices, and Madagascar vanilla. Every batch infused with high-vibe rituals—positive audiobooks playing as I stirred, ensuring only joy flowed into the confections.

After a corporate career in logistics, information systems, tech support, and finance, I yearned for freedom. Startup panels, like Justin's peanut butter story in Denver, fueled the fire. Spotting a chocolate shop near a national park, I knew: this was my calling. In 2025, I launched Colorado’s chef’s kiss caramels at the Aurora Chocolate Festival, offering masterpieces like Passion Fruit Mango's tropical sunrise explosion, Orange Cardamom's mountain spice warmth, Raspberry's bright berry lift, Strawberry's sweet fruit harmony, Bergamot's floral citrus elegance, Guava's lush tropical depth, and Classic Plain's pure caramel bliss.

Select pieces are infused with Colorado single malts—Stranahan’s Sherry Cask, Laws San Luis Valley Rye, Peach Street Distillers Select, Breckenridge Bourbon—for adults seeking unforgettable luxury. Every bite is gluten-free, fair-trade chocolate, and made with love in small batches.

Committed to sustainability, we use certified compostable packaging for markets and elegant gold-foil gift boxes for e-commerce. From intimate festivals to farmers markets, Chocolate Elk isn't just confections—it's enchanted escapes, curated to lift your spirit, celebrate your weddings, and add the most satisfying chocolate experience. From packmates to patrons, we bond over obsession turned art.

Step into the forest portal. Let the caramels amplify your best.