Even the best intentions can go off track when life happens, and your Valentine may find himself empty-handed heading into the romantic evening you’ve planned to celebrate all things romantic. There’s no need for him to buy outrageously expensive roses or scour the city for an impersonal box of drugstore chocolates. Although it’s too late for shipping, he’ll find gifts that are sure to please in neighborhood stores. This thoughtful selection ranges from cute to exquisite, and it’s sure to spark ideas of the gifts can be found with a little creative last minute local shopping.
Crankenstein Valentine, $10.98
The most lovey-dovey day of the year turns an ordinary boy into Crankenstein. Who could blame him when the kid is surrounded by cheesy cards, allergy-inducing bouquets, and heart-shaped everything? This humorous children’s book by Samantha Berger is not just for kids but for everyone underwhelmed by V-Day expectations. Find the funny at your local bookstore or on Amazon.
Aerie Cotton High Cut Bikini, $9.50 for 1 or $35 for 10
Pink hearts on oh-so-comfy bikini underwear with a high cut leg and a high waist puts the pretty in panty. Fill up her lingerie drawer with these cute and sporty Aerie cotton undies. Get them at your local American Eagle Outfitters or go online here.
Creed’s Cedre Blanc Fragrance, $315.00
The fresh woody scents in this unisex perfume evoke the beauty of Virginia’s Blue Ridge mountains. Fragrant laurel, spicy cardamom and bitter galbanum give way to subtle floral notes of geranium, lily and jasmine before leaving a base of Virginian cedar. The exquisite bottle was hand blown in France. Drop by Nordstrom or find this luscious perfume here.
Forever Mine Initial Locket, $48.00
Make sure she keeps you close to her heart with this Kate Spade 12-karat gold-plated, monogrammed locket accented with a gold stud chain and cubic zirconia stone. The initial makes this chic piece a very personal gift. Find the nearest store where you can buy Kate Spade or go online here.
Fujifilm Instax Mini 90 Neo Classic Instant Film Camera, $128
Planning to document your Valentine’s Day celebration so that you can cherish the memories forever? Get this instant film camera that Wirecutter crowns the best and take great photos. The reasonable price adds to the appeal of this easy to use camera that boasts a cool retro style. Buy it at your neighborhood camera store or go shopping online at Amazon.
Floret Farm’s Cut Flower Garden, $20.36
Even if your Valentine doesn’t have a green thumb, she’ll love this beautiful book from Floret Flower Farm, a leader in the farm-to-centerpiece movement. This is a beautiful book that gives readers a guide to nurturing a stunning flower garden year-round. Vivid photos of magnificent flowers are complemented by tutorials on how to make stunning floral arrangements. Find it at your local bookstore or buy it on Amazon.