Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Arrange half of the pretzels on the baking sheet in a single layer. Place a caramel on top of each of the pretzels, right in the center. Bake for 5 minutes or until caramels are softened.
Remove from the oven and immediately press a pretzel on top of each caramel. Allow the pretzels to cool completely.
Place candy melts in the bowl of a double boiler or in a heat-safe bowl over a pan of water. Heat over med/high heat stirring frequently until completely melted. Stir in shortening a teaspoon at a time until the melts are perfectly smooth.
Dip a pretzel bite in the candy melts to cover about 2/3 of the pretzel. Return to the parchment-lined baking sheet and gently press a heart-shaped sprinkle onto it. Repeat with the remaining pretzels.
Allow the candy melts to set before storing or serving.
Notes
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.