Valentine's Day isn't just about roses and candlelight dinners, it's a chance to show love and care towards others whether they're part of our everyday lives or further removed. Whether you're celebrating romantic love or caring for your best friend, your family, or even your furry sidekick, finding something thoughtful and local makes it extra special.
Luckily, North Carolina is full of amazing makers and experiences that turn gift-giving into a heartfelt gesture. Here are some ideas to make this Valentine's Day feel personal and fun while goin' local.
Rhyme and Reason Chocolate Co. - Valentine's Bon Bon Box
Focused on quality and sustainability, Rhyme and Reason Chocolate Company in Greensboro creates all of their chocolates in small batches often featuring an incorporation of flavors from their travels across the globe. For Valentine's Day, among their regular offerings, their Valentine's Bon Bon Box is a top choice.
Muro Jewelry - A Drop of the Ocean Necklace
Based out of Huntersville, Muro Jewelry creates one of a kind, sculpted jewelry that is in essence wearable art. With creations that are often made from raw materials that have been recycled, each piece is sure to allow you to engage in the story of each piece of jewelry.
With this particular necklace, the pendant features a drop of water and sand from the artist's travels.
Summerfield Farms - 2 Steak Pack: NY Strip Steaks
Love shows up in the kitchen. Make the day memorable and one of a kind by creating a special meal for your loved one or friends. Make it even more special by spending the time cooking together! Check out their NY Strip Steaks for a premium dining experience.
Lo and Behold Naturals - Staycation Set
Give the gift of relaxation this Valentine's Day with this at-home, self-care experience that includes Lo & Behold's Activated Charcoal & Rosemary Detoxifying Face Mask, Lavender & Clary Sage Body Scrub and Minted Hair & Body Oil. All three products are 100% all natural, vegan, cruelty free and gluten free ensuring a clean, nourishing experience for even the most sensitive of skin. Shop the Staycation Set for the perfect self-care gift.
Seagrove Handcrafted Candles - Sweet Treats Gift Box
For over 16 years Seagrove Candle and Soapworks has been handcrafting exceptional products for the community. This year give the gift of sweetness with their sweet treats gift box which includes their 2 top selling candles, Pound Cake and Maple Butter Cookies, and 2 bars of their soothing shea butter soaps.
Clara Bea Essentials - Bea's Beard Care Set
Let your guy know he's valued and celebrated with this beard care set that will help elevate his look. Relax and stimulate your senses with this easy upgrade to his routine.
The Dragonfly Boutique - The Date Night Jar
Continually unsure of what to do for those date nights or want to experience new adventures together? Give the gift of your time while deepening your relationship in a fun and unexpected way. The Date Night Jar is the perfect solution. Take it up a level and match this thoughtful gift with an old-school Polaroid camera to have an instant memento of each date, saving each photo to create a book of memories of your time together.
Wendy Varner Designs - Watercolor Art Earrings
Looking for a special gift where abstract expression meets wearable art? Each earring pair is crafted using Wendy's original abstract watercolor paintings which are then segmented, preserved in resin and finally framed in elegant bezels. You're guaranteed that each piece is a unique, one-of-a-kind creation full of color and bold beauty.
Charlotte Yarn - Woobles
If you're looking to create a thoughtful, handmade gift experience that is beginner friendly, even a child can do it, look no further than these adorable Wooble amigurumi (AKA mini plushies).
Each kit includes all the material you need to create your plushie along with a step by step video tutorial. Remove all the stress from learning something new all while having your new creation completed as quickly as an evening.
Charlie's Bakery - Berry Sweet Paws: Pup-Friendly Strawberries
Include your pup in the Valentine's Day fun! These adorable treats will please even the most sensitive of pups with each treat being crafted with wholesome, all-natural ingredients, guaranteeing you'll have a berry sweet Valentine's Day thanks to Charlie's Bakery in Cornelius.
Local Florist
Often using native blooms or working with local flower farms, a flower bouquet from a local florist is an easy no brainer this Valentine's Day to show you care.
Ready to Shop?
If you're feeling inspired and ready to start checking names off your Valentine's list, North Carolina has no shortage of amazing spots to explore. Local boutiques, artisan markets, and small-town shops are filled with handmade treasures you just won't find anywhere else. Whether you prefer to browse in person or shop from your couch with a cup of coffee, there are plenty of ways to find that perfect gift.
No matter who you're celebrating this year—your partner, your bestie, your parents, or even your pup—choosing something local adds heart to your gift. It's a way to show love not only to someone special, but also to the North Carolina makers, bakers, artists, and small business owners who help our communities shine.
So go ahead: explore, shop small, and share the local love this Valentine's Day.