Americans love Valentine’s Day so much, they dropped a whopping $19.7 billion to celebrate the holiday in 2016, according to the National Retail Federation.
To show big love for your significant other, think small–by buying baubles, buds, and beyond from small local businesses. At Union Market in Northeast D.C., for instance, shops are selling everything from eco-friendly throws and scarves to handmade cards.
Small Business Saturday may be in November, but February can be a fine time to resurrect the idea of supporting local businesses to give them a warm boost in the depths of winter.
Cera Wax Studio
Give the gift of smooth at this Bethesda waxing-only studio, which specializes in Brazilians. Purchase a gift card for their Vixen Wax and your Valentine can go completely bare down there for $65. And for a little something extra, add on a bit of body bling. The sparkly service is normally priced at $15, but mention SpicyCandyDC for a $10 discount.
Lorra Rivers Bag
This local designer makes some awesome leather goods, particularly the black Nikita clutch (currently on sale for $166). The stylish purse has a magnetic and zipper closure with a leather tassel pull and black full aniline dyed and ostrich embossed leather body. A celery green lining adds a surprise pop of color inside. And rocking it instantly catapults her into celebrity status: The exact bag was featured on FOX’s “Empire” and held by Brandy Norwood on her BET show “Zoe Ever After.”
Heart-Shaped Macarons
These classy cookies are concocted inside D.C.’s Sweet Lobby candy shop on Capitol Hill. The delicate (and pink!) Parisian treats are perfect for the holiday, featuring pink champagne white chocolate ganache inside. Get a 20-count set for $79 at Dean & DeLuca Georgetown.
Mallory Shelter Jewelry
Mallory’s versatile accessories, all handmade in her Dupont Circle studio, feature 14k gold, sterling silver, and semi-precious gemstones. Deck your darling out with a unique piece at her pop-up at Union Market (1309 5th St. NE) from Feb. 2 through Feb. 14.
Cape May Flower Co.
Surprise your sweetie with a bouquet of tulips of succulent dish garden for Valentine’s Day, while supplies last. Garden rose bouquets of roses, tulips, and lush greens in “blush” (pictured) or “rich red” are $55 each. Last-minute shoppers can pre-order by Feb. 11 for pick-up at West Elm’s Lab1270 space on Feb. 13 or 14.
Pineapple Tumbler
Bartender babe alert: This two-piece pineapple tumbler is a trendy serving piece for a well-crafted cocktail. The metallic pineapple–a fruit that’s a symbol of hospitality and a warm welcome–comes in both gold and copper finishes for $35 apiece. Nestled in a gorgeous green leaf printed gift box, the presentation is on point. Available at Red Barn Mercantile at 1117 King St., Alexandria.
DC Flag Pillow
Show some city spirit with these hand-sewn pillows, made of repurposed wool military blankets or organic linen. Available in navy and khaki colors, for $72 each by Fritz & Fraulein out of Brooklyn. Find ’em at boutique Salt & Sundry’s Logan Circle (1625 14th St. NW) or Union Market locations.
Farida Floral Bouquet Cones
Longer lasting than an ice cream cone, these fun flower cones are from a brand-new company out of Fairfax. Once the bouquet’s “outfit”–aka cone—is chosen, the flower color combos are designed from there. Share your email on Farida’s site to redeem a holiday coupon.
