I wrote about trends gathering speed a couple days ago, so it seems timely to highlight another local company in the center of the affordable luxury trend. Seattle Post Intelligencer Food Writer Rebekah Denn offers some insights in this column that looks back at food trends for 2008. She writes, “Even in hard times, economists say chocolate remains a manageable luxury.” Seattle Chocolate Company is right in the mix and ready to delight with beautifully packaged Valentine’s Day (and other) gift items that deliver “What Happiness Tastes Like™” to a chocolate loving nation. Whether gift givers have $5.85 or $14.65 in the gift giving budget, there is something perfectly delicious and stunning to give and receive at the online store. Pictured at left is the Terrazzo Heart and the Te Amo Heart at right. These are the company’s newest items that are part of a seven-item Valentine’s Day gift line. Of course, there is plenty more to enjoy for occasions all year long, and the convenience of online shopping certainly makes life easier. Anyone out there want more ease? Editors, reporters, and bloggers interested in recommending these items to their readers are welcome to connect with me by email to request samples and discuss other details. Connect at nancy@nsjmtkg.com, or comment here if that is easier.