A TASTE OF ROMANCE IN WAYNEDALE

Founded in 1987 by Cathy Brand-Beere and her husband Timothy Beere, DeBrand Fine Chocolates has built a premium reputation as one of America’s top chocolatiers over the past 17 years. ‑With the opening of its 5th retail location (4 in Fort Wayne and 1 in Indianapolis) at the Fort Wayne International Airport last October, DeBrand has made it more convenient than ever for Waynedale and surrounding area residents to enjoy DeBrand’s highly coveted chocolates.

Soon after DeBrand opened its Airport Store, airport management enacted a new policy allowing a free half hour parking in the short-term lot. This makes the thought of running by the airport to pick up a great box of chocolates for a gift (or just to treat yourself) very appealing to local residents and business employees. “The airport was very accommodating in putting this deal together.” According to Cathy, “We all worked together to make it a win/win situation. Not only do the travelers passing through the airport get a unique store to visit, but area residents have their own little chocolate shop with close and easy parking… and it’s free! We’re looking forward to developing a local clientele.”

DeBrand also moved into its beautiful new corporate headquarters building last year. ‑The 30,000 square foot facility on Auburn Road (just south of Dupont on Fort Wayne’s north side) is home to DeBrand’s sparkling new kitchens as well as a flagship store featuring a private party room and baby grand piano. ‑The classic European styled building was designed by the Beeres and impresses upon visitors the fact that fine chocolate has an elite presence in the mind of many chocolate lovers.

“We’ve always been committed to doing everything the best it can be done,” says Brand-Beere. (The name DeBrand comes from adding the French prefix “De” meaning of or from, to Cathy’s last name.) ‑”Whether it’s the design of our stores, our packaging or the look of our chocolates, our customers know to expect the best from DeBrand.”

DeBrand currently makes over a hundred different varieties of chocolates as well as top selling seasonal items such as chocolate covered strawberries in the summer and giant caramel apples in the fall. In addition to these popular items, DeBrand stores also sell gourmet coffee drinks as well as luxurious desserts all made by DeBrand. In addition to the Auburn Road store already mentioned, DeBrand has Fort Wayne locations at 5608 Coldwater Road and in Jefferson Pointe. DeBrand’s Indianapolis location is in the Keystone area at the Fashion Mall Commons.

Since opening the new facility, DeBrand has also been offering tours and private parties. Additional information on tours and parties can be found by calling 969-8335. DeBrand’s Airport Store can be reached at 747-5669. ‑DeBrand also ships its chocolates throughout the United States and even overseas. DeBrand chocolates are sold on the internet at www.debrand.com.