The Story of Dorothy Lane Market's Mail Order Department

From One Brownie to a Nationwide Legacy: The Story of Dorothy Lane Market Mail Order

At Dorothy Lane Market, we’ve always believed that food is one of the most meaningful gifts you can give. It comforts, celebrates, and connects — and for over 20 years, our Mail Order Department has been delivering that joy across the country.

But this story didn’t start with a warehouse or a catalog. It started with a single, unforgettable treat: the Killer Brownie®.

How It All Began

In the early 2000s, DLM CEO Calvin Mayne saw something special in the rich, layered indulgence of our Killer Brownie®. He knew it wasn’t just a local favorite — it was a gift worth sharing far beyond Ohio. With the help of our IT team, led by Pat Arnold, we launched our first online store, and the Dorothy Lane Market Mail Order business was born.

 What started with brownies quickly grew into a full-fledged gourmet gifting service. Today, we ship everything from Heavenly Ham® and Laura’s Cookies to Classic Coffee Cakes, artisan cheeses, and curated gift boxes, all packed with care and shipped nationwide.

Why Customers Trust DLM Mail Order

With over two decades of experience, we’ve earned a reputation for safe, reliable, and thoughtful food shipping. Here’s why customers and businesses trust us:

Expert Packaging: We use dry ice, insulated liners, and seasonal adjustments to keep perishable items fresh and safe.

Handpicked Products: Every item is chosen for its quality, flavor, and ability to delight — from our Bakehouse to our local artisan partners.

Nationwide Reach: Whether you're sending a gift across town or across the country, we deliver with precision and pride.

Personal Touch: Every box is packed like a gift, because we know it often represents someone’s first impression of DLM — or of the person who sent it.

The People Behind the Packages

Our Mail Order team is the heart of this operation. Led by Jennifer Mayne, Director and Buyer, and McKenzie Patton, Fulfillment Manager, the team treats every order with care and intention.

 “We like to say, we ship happiness nationwide,” says Jennifer. “Because every box we send is packed with flavor, warmth, and a little bit of joy.”

 McKenzie adds, “We know that when someone opens a DLM package, it’s more than just food. It’s a moment. That’s why we make the unboxing experience feel special.”

Trusted by Businesses Big and Small

From small startups to Fortune 500 companies, businesses rely on DLM to help them express appreciation and build relationships through food. Our Corporate Account Manager, Matt Hollon, works closely with clients to create custom gifting programs that reflect their brand and values.

 Some of our trusted partners include Paycor, Kettering Health, Oracle NetSuite, Bahl & Gaynor, and Reynolds and Reynolds.

Looking Ahead

As our Mail Order service continues to grow, we remain rooted in the values that define Dorothy Lane Market: quality, authenticity, and community. Every gift box is a reflection of our commitment to excellence and our joy in helping people connect through food.

Whether it’s a birthday, a business milestone, or a simple “thinking of you,” we’re honored to be part of your story for many more years to come.