"Sweets to the sweet" is one of many classic expressions we quote from the works of Shakespeare, but how did the tradition of Valentine's Day candy begin? In the 1840s, Richard Cadbury of the famed British chocolate-making family came up with the idea of packing candy in heart-shaped boxes that could be used later to hold keepsakes.

How will you treat your special someone this Valentine's Day? Our real estate agents all have a sweet tooth, and they're sharing their favorite places to find the best goodies in and around Excelsior.

1. Farina Baking Company - 23290 Hwy. 7, Excelsior
   Farina Baking Company is truly a labor of love for owner Tracy Kohler, who worked with top pastry chefs to learn the techniques for bringing her incredible creations to life. Her inventive cakes, cupcakes, and mini-desserts will be the centerpiece of your romantic Valentine's Day wedding or anniversary celebration. Consultations and tastings are available by appointment Monday through Thursday between 1 and 6 p.m.
   
   
2. Truffle Hill Chocolates - 24320 Smithtown Road, Excelsior
   Who can resist the elegant look and luscious taste of truffles? Husband-and-wife owners Marshall and Susie Morehead of Truffle Hill Chocolates have been delighting Excelsior residents with their handmade confections. Some of the more exotic truffle flavors include Grand Marnier, Key Lime, and Toasted Almond Mocha. Can't decide? Truffle Hill offers pre-made and custom gift baskets. While you're looking for homes for sale in Excelsior, be sure to stop by the shop, open until 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 5 p.m. Sunday.
   
   
3. L'More Chocolat - 633 Lake St., E., Wayzata
   The name says it all: L'More Chocolat is heaven for chocolate lovers. Owner Kathy Ehrmann has a mission to bring the best of French, Swiss, and Belgian chocolates to Minnesota. With its antique mahogany fixtures, Austrian crystal chandeliers, and 24-karat gold hot chocolate machine, L'More Chocolat is a faithful recreation of a European shop. The open kitchen lets you watch their fabulous treats take shape. L'More Chocolat is open Tuesday through Saturday, so be sure to stop by while you're looking for Wayzata homes for sale.
   
   
4. Groveland Confections - 5757 Sanibel Dr., Minnetonka
   At Groveland Confections, quality is job #1. Their products are made fresh every day in the on-site kitchen using the finest natural ingredients, sourced locally whenever possible. In addition to individual chocolates, you can order trays, plates, and sweet tables for weddings, showers, company meetings, and other special occasions. Learn the language of chocolate at events such as dessert-making classes, and chocolate and wine pairings. Touring homes for sale in Minnetonka? Stop by Groveland Monday through Friday, or schedule a Saturday appointment.
   
   
5. Sweet Jules Gifts - 10902 Greenbrier Road, Minnetonka
   Known for their caramels, sisters Jule Vranian and Hope Klocker honed their candy-making skills over many years of testing. The result was the introduction of Sweet Jules Caramels in 2009. Now you can choose from a variety of flavors when you visit Sweet Jules Gifts in Minnetonka, including Fleur de Sel, French Sea Salt, or Bananas Foster. All caramels are expertly packaged and ready for giving to your Valentine. Visit the Minnetonka location 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, and Saturdays 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Are you and your significant other ready to view "sweet" area homes for sale with our experienced real estate agents? Contact Homes by Joel to find the home where your heart is.