Meet The Makers: Luke
At The Old Mill, we believe tradition isn’t something you look at, it’s something you live. And for our makers, each day is a chance to carry forward the time-tested skills that define us. We call it Mill Made, a way of making things with heart, by hand, and with a deep respect for where we come from.
Whether it’s turning grains into grits, clay into dinnerware, or fresh-picked fruit into jam, our makers transform the ordinary into the unforgettable. We’re proud to introduce you to the people behind the craft, those who put soul into every scoop, slice, and sip.
Meet Luke
Candy making is a true art—one that blends science, patience, and just the right touch of magic. At The Old Mill Candy Kitchen, Luke is the artist behind the scenes, turning simple ingredients like sugar, cream, and rich chocolate into irresistible confections that bring smiles to the faces of all ages.
One of Luke’s most beloved specialties is our house-made caramel. Using a time-honored recipe and an old-fashioned copper kettle—renowned for its ability to heat evenly—Luke crafts each batch with care. The copper helps prevent scorching, ensuring the sugars cook slowly and smoothly into that golden, velvety perfection.
Once the caramel reaches just the right consistency, it’s poured into sheets to cool. From there, it’s warmed up whenever it’s needed to create our famous Bear Paws, Chocolate Bears, and of course, coat our signature Caramel Apples.
While many folks associate Caramel Apples with crisp autumn days, ours are a fan favorite all year long. That’s why Luke keeps the kettle warm and the caramel flowing—soft, chewy, and perfectly sweet—ready to bring a little joy to every season.
Luke is one of many whose hands shape what we do and who we are. Each maker at The Old Mill brings with them not only skill, but also soul, a commitment to keeping traditions alive and well in our community.
Stay tuned for more stories in our Meet the Makers series. Because at The Old Mill, every bite, every brushstroke, and every batch starts with someone who cares deeply about getting it just right.