If you listen, you can almost hear the chapel bells ringing in the distance. It seems it is always wedding planning season, and every bride out there is looking for creative new ideas for favors, centerpieces and gifts that will help make her special day a memorable one for all.

Cookies By Design(R) and Cookie Bouquet(R) create floral-like arrangements of individually hand-decorated cookies in a variety of shapes for every occasion. And at about the same cost as flowers, cookie arrangements are a beautiful way to get double-duty from your decorations. The company’s newest wedding-themed arrangement, Hearts Aglow, works beautifully as a reception centerpiece that doubles as a favor – guests simply pull out individual cookies on sticks from the arrangement to take home. Elegant and beautiful, the arrangement is available in a metallic silver and white palette, however it can also be decorated in your choice of colors.

For a more whimsical approach, the Best Wishes arrangement features bride and groom cookie bears, doves, wedding bells and a chapel, and makes for a special shower or bridal brunch centerpiece. Any of the wedding-inspired arrangements make nice gifts for the wedding party and can be customized with the wedding colors and a personal message. Individually wrapped decorated cookies can also dress up tables as custom place cards, and a fancifully decorated cookie makes the perfect tie-in for any gift.

The company also offers custom designs and can work with you to create the look you want. Selected locations even offer a process to put photographs on cookies. Imagine a gift arrangement or centerpiece with real bride and groom cookies.

“What better way to make this event truly yours than with favors, centerpieces and gifts that have been created especially for your special day,” says Linda Shunk, president and chief executive officer of the franchise chain. “We provide a unique offering for brides that is tasteful and elegant, yet provides a personal touch and a creative flair worthy of the occasion.”

To choose from the hundreds of cookie arrangements for every occasion in an assortment of sizes and prices, visit cookiesbydesign.com or cookiebouquet.com to order online, find the shoppe nearest you or request a catalog. For personal service from your local shoppe and to discuss custom designs, call the shoppe locator service at (888) 882-6654. Local delivery and nationwide shipping are available. (MS)