Bittersweet Romance 

Those little tulle bags of Jordan almonds you get at Italian weddings are meant to symbolize the bitter and the sweet in life, and to wish the happy couple more of the sweet side. They also make you wish you had some chocolate.

Locally crafted chocolate makes an indulgent top-off for your dessert table or goody bags, and it’s easier for guests to take away than a slice of cake.


Black-tie chocolate-dipped strawberries from Old Town Coffee and Chocolates are plump, juicy and impossible to eat without smiling. Pair them with romantic truffles topped with hearts and filled with white chocolate cream.  (211 F St., Eureka, 445-8600)

Drakes Glen prints images and messages on its rich filled chocolates — that’s just cool. Or you can get solid pieces with the classic Claddagh (aka Irish wedding band) design symbolizing friendship, love and loyalty (www.drakeschocolate.com, 825-7788)

What says “one-and-only” like single-bean chocolate? Dick Taylor Craft Chocolate’s artisanal bars will soon come in these elegant, customizable 1-ounce blocks. You can work with designers on your very own letterpress design. (4 West Fourth St., Eureka, 798-6010)

The elegant French creams from Humboldt Chocolates (now Kenny's Chocolates) break open to lemon, vanilla and pineapple fillings, among others, and are fancy enough to eat in your vintage lace gown. Or you can opt for rich, generously sized truffles. (425 Snug Alley, Eureka, 445-8015)