Are you ready to indulge in the most delectable hand-crafted truffles, bonbons, confections and desserts made with the finest, natural ingredients? Each bite is a celebration of flavor and showcases my passion for all things chocolate. I want you to treat yourself and your guests to what my friends, family and many wonderful humans say are “the best chocolates” they have ever had.

How it began.

In 2004 and I was invited to my boyfriend’s family home for the Christmas holiday. He is the the youngest son of nine children. All told, there would be approximately 40 people feasting over 5 days in two homes where each of the nine families contributed their own special recipes and favorite dishes. I very much wanted to join in this tradition too. But what could I bring that could be prepared in advance, that could travel in a car for six hours and would last for more than one dinner? I landed on chocolate. I created giant hand-rolled dark chocolate truffles flavored with Irish Cream, coffee and bourbon. I made over a hundred and watched as they disappeared over just a couple of evenings. They were a huge hit. I married my McGowan, kept making chocolates for his family and they kept enjoying them.

In 2011 the first McGowan grandchild was getting married. My sister-in-law asked me to make the truffles for her wedding. What fun it was to create four of their favorite flavors and to design the box with them. Each box contained two truffles of the four flavors. During the reception I watched as guests compared the flavors in their boxes with others at their table. Deals were stuck and exchanges were made. I watched as some hunted table to table at the end of the evening to see if anyone left their chocolates behind. Thus started the tradition of making personalized chocolate favors for every family member and friend’s wedding. The happiness and excitement I get from working with the bride and groom to develop their favorite flavors and design their favor box for their special day is unparalleled.

I channel that feeling every time I make chocolate. Every sweet creation is a flavorful delight that I strive to make look as good as it tastes. I sincerest hope is that my chocolates put a smile on your face and help to create a lasting memory of your special event.

• Kim McGowan, owner of McGowan Chocolates & Master Chocolatier