We have some exciting news here at Sarah’s Gourmet Pretzels!
Our founder, Heidi Lushko, has recently gotten married - embracing a new chapter not just as an inspired entrepreneur, but now also as a deeply motivated newlywed. While marriage is a joyful milestone, it doesn’t change the core of who Heidi is or the mission that drives this business. In fact, it has further motivated her to blend family, faith, and philanthropy with every delicious chocolate‑covered pretzel.
It all started in the spring of 2011, when Heidi and her family were preparing to adopt their youngest son, Marcus. With God guiding every step, Heidi encouraged her children to pray about how God would provide for the adoption. It was Sarah, then just 11 years old, who suggested selling chocolate‑covered pretzels, going door to door with a simple but brilliant idea. Heidi agreed, hoping that they'd at least break even. Much to their surprise, they sold out! And within a short time, they were selling their pretzels in 32 locations. That humble fundraiser enabled them to bring Marcus home in 2012!
The family stopped production, believing their mission was complete. But as the years went on (especially in 2018) the community kept asking for more. As a single mom now caring for five kids, Heidi felt called again, not just to meet demand, but to expand on the initial purpose. She relaunched as Sarah’s Gourmet Pretzels: “Pretzels with a Purpose.” What began as a simple fundraiser evolved into a women and family-owned chocolate company with a certified kitchen, products in more than 100 stores across more than 20 counties, and a firm commitment to supporting survivors of child sex-trafficking.
Now, as Heidi steps into life as a newlywed, her role as a mother and business owner remains foundational. This joyous milestone doesn't distract her from SGP’s mission, it strengthens it! In her new marriage, she has found renewed support, partnership, and spiritual growth. Together with her husband Chris, she has begun to pray more intentionally for the lives touched by their pretzels.
Heidi, Chris, and her family pray over their pretzels and the lives they will change as a result of the company’s mission. After all, thanks to Sarah’s Gourmet Pretzels’ dedication, 30% of proceeds go to organizations that rescue children from sex trafficking and support those who have experienced abuse, both locally and around the world. Additionally, the company sources chocolate only from suppliers who stand firmly against child slavery to ensure ethical ingredients are in every batch.
Every pretzel Heidi creates is hand-dipped in their Dunlo, Pennsylvania kitchen, using a signature blend of chocolates and only the finest ingredients. Their lineup includes hand-dipped stuffed chocolate pretzels that are as beautiful as they are meaningful. The company's core values are reflected meticulously in each flavor and design. From indulgent best-sellers like the Cashew Caramel Turtle, Dark Caramel Swirl, and Cookies and Cream Pretzel Rods, to gluten-free delights such as the Peanut Butter Delight and M&M Meltdown, every pretzel is a handcrafted experience that marries flavor with impact.
Whether you're looking to buy Stuffed Gluten Free Peanut Butter Delight Pretzel Rods for yourself or seeking the perfect gluten free gourmet pretzel gift idea for someone you love, you're doing more than enjoying a sweet treat - you're supporting the best social impact gourmet food crafted with care, love, and purpose.
Heidi’s journey, now enriched by love and marriage, is a living testament to how faith and family can spark extraordinary change. From Sarah’s original idea to the bustling business they run today, the heart of Sarah’s Gourmet Pretzels beats to a rhythm of compassion, Christ-like love, and community.
When you relish a taste of dark chocolate caramel, gluten-free PB crunch, or any of our gourmet pretzels, you’re enjoying a treat made with purpose. You’re supporting a business that delivers on deliciousness, ensures ethical sourcing, gives back to survivors, and honors God.
From our family to yours, thank you for joining our mission! With every order, you're helping sustain our story of faith, hope, and love. And yes, Heidi’s happily married, and more inspired than ever to make good things happen, one pretzel at a time!
With Love (and chocolate),
Sarah’s Gourmet Pretzels Team
