In the heart of Downtown Lakeland, PALS Candy Shop is more than a store. It is a dream brought to life by Paul and Lindsey Loiacono, a husband-and-wife team with a passion for serving their community. The name “PALS” carries a special charm. Some say it comes from Paul’s initials because he has always been your PAL, while others believe it stands for Paul’s and Lindsey’s. Either way, it has become the beloved name of our candy store. 

Paul and Lindsey’s path to owning a candy shop began far from Florida. Both spent years in public service, dedicating their lives to helping others. Paul’s career includes service in corrections, uniformed duty in Washington, D.C., and more than twenty years as a volunteer firefighter, where he rose to the rank of Fire Chief. Lindsey has also served as a volunteer firefighter and EMT, and she continues to help others every day as a surgical technologist in a local hospital’s operating room. 

After the birth of their first son, the couple made the move from Maryland to Florida in search of a better life for their growing family. With another child on the way, they poured their hearts into creating a place that would spark joy, bring people together, and make everyone feel like a kid again. 

At PALS, the experience is just as important as the candy. Watching customers walk in and say “Wow!” never gets old. We do not just ask about your favorite candy for fun; we do it because we will do our best to get it for you, as long as it is still being made. We are also proud to support our community, with many of our treats coming from local companies. Inside the shop, you will find a display of patches from local and regional public service departments, a tribute to Paul and Lindsey’s roots in service and their continued support for those who protect and serve. 

From the moment the doors opened, the shop has been filled with laughter, conversation, and the bright smiles of customers discovering their favorite sweets. What began as a vision for a small-town candy shop has quickly grown into a destination with hundreds of candy options, creative made-to-order drinks, and candy rentals for parties, all within the first year of opening. 

For Paul, who has witnessed many of life’s challenges, PALS Candy Shop is a way to share light, positivity, and happiness with the community. For both Paul and Lindsey, it is proof that hard work, faith, and a little sweetness can make dreams come true. 

The story of PALS is still unfolding, and they look forward to sharing each chapter with you.