A Story Nearly 50 Years in the Making
At Heavenly Fudge, our story is rooted in family, tradition, and a deep love for handcrafted sweets. Nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, our locations in Cherokee and Bryson City, NC, are more than just fudge shops—they're places where memories are made. In 2025, Jeremy and Kristin Pressley proudly took over the legacy of "Mr. Fudge" himself, with a mission to preserve the magic while passing down life lessons to the next generation. Every batch of our creamy, homemade fudge is made with care, just like it always has been. This is our story—and we're glad you're a part of it. Read more below to learn more about the history of Heavenly Fudge.
OUR STORY
Began In 1976
Laurence (Larry) Denman also known as “Mr. Fudge” started the Heavenly Fudge Shoppes of Cherokee, NC in 1976. Mr. Fudge meticulously labored over his fudge recipes, testing, tasting and perfecting fudge and chocolate recipes throughout the years. Mr. and Mrs. Denman opened their first store in downtown Cherokee in 1976 and then a second location in 1978.
In 2016 the Denmans' retired and sold the business, however the recipes and standards have not wavered. More than 40 years later Heavenly Fudge still creates confectioneries in the same manner and quality.
​
Stop by our shop in Cherokee, NC or in Bryson City, NC. We look forward to serving you!
OUR STORY
Today
Since 1976
​
In 2025, Jeremy and Kristin Pressley made the exciting decision to become the new owners of Heavenly Fudge, carrying on the sweet legacy of Mr. Fudge himself.
​
The Pressleys had been searching for a business where their kids could get involved—learning hard work, responsibility, customer service, and life skills to guide them into adulthood. What started as a simple idea to buy a few vending machines turned into something much bigger when Heavenly Fudge, a shop they had loved for years, suddenly went up for sale.
They couldn’t believe it—this special place from their children’s early years was now available. When the opportunity landed in their lap, they knew it was part of God’s plan for their family.
​
Today, Jeremy, Kristin, and their kids spend each weekend in the fudge shop, making handmade fudge, scooping ice cream, crafting milkshakes, and serving up smiles—while creating memories and lessons that will last a lifetime.
Visit us in Bryson City or Cherokee and meet the wonderful Pressley family in person!
