Chocolate calms the nerves, soothes the spirit and can be good for your health. Some say it's also an aphrodisiac. But for most, it's the most romantic candy gift in the world. That may explain why chocolate — whether slathered over strawberries or cascading out of a fountain — makes such a big splash at weddings.

"It's all about making the reception fun and super sweet," said Sheri Johnson, owner of Atlanta Chocolate Co. in Cumming. "Having a chocolate fountain or two is also a great way to get guests to interact. It creates a conversation area."

R. Todd Fleeman / Special (ENLARGE)

Susie Hubbell, owner of Miss Scarlet's Chocolat Emporium, takes chocolate out of molds in her kitchen.

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The most popular fountains virtually ooze with milk chocolate, suitable for dipping marshmallows, bits of sliced fruit or cookies.

"Dark chocolate is the next most popular choice, and we're really getting a lot of requests for caramel for dipping fruit, especially apples," Johnson said. "People just love chocolate, and the fountains make it really fun."

Atlanta Chocolate Co., which also makes corporate gifts, can stamp the couple's names, wedding date or a meaningful phrase onto the candy.

For an even more personalized touch, Schott Chocolate Images of Alpharetta can imprint color photographs onto planks of chocolate.

"We've got a very specialized laser printer that uses food coloring to imprint a four-color, [high-resolution] image onto a piece of chocolate," said Holly Schott, owner of the company. "I can [use] Photoshop to add words or a message."

The candy can be used as wedding favors featuring the couple's engagement photo, or as part of centerpieces on reception tables. Schott also sells three sizes of heart-shaped chocolate lollipops that can be used in floral arrangements.

"Edible heart-shaped boxes containing truffles are wonderful gifts for out-of-town guests in their hotel rooms," Schott said. "They're also a great gift for members of the wedding party. We can even personalize each truffle."

Susie Hubbell, owner of Miss Scarlet's Chocolat Emporium in Acworth, creates handmade sweets, including hand-dipped chocolate strawberries and individually crafted truffles.

"Chocolate molded into the shapes of brides and grooms or wedding cakes make great wedding favors," Hubbell said. "I also do a business-card plaque of chocolate that says, 'And two shall become one.' That's very popular."

Hubbell recently worked with a bride who wanted to give her out-of-town guests chocolates in the shape of Georgia and peaches. "We used white chocolate, and I hand-painted every one of them. Everything in my shop is handmade."

Miss Scarlet's also hosts bridesmaids' luncheons and parties before the wedding. "Chocolate is great for your health, especially dark chocolate, because it has antioxidants. But it also raises serotonin levels, which makes you happy," Hubbell said. "Having something chocolate at a wedding is essential. And just about everyone loves chocolate."