Valentine's Day this year, although different, is still an opportunity for joy that can carry us through as the pandemic carries on. Any celebration—big or small—has the power to cheer us up as we impatiently wait to gather with our loved ones (without mask). I've never thought of this holiday as a moment to be shared with just my significant other, even though I take my Valentine's Day date pretty seriously. Instead, I see it as a reminder to celebrate everyone I love, with a phone call, a heartfelt email or a meaningful gift.
If like me, you have many Valentines this year (starting with yourself), you may be scratching your head for unconventional gift ideas. Ahead, I've given you some food for thought, so peruse this exciting list of romantic books, low-maintenance plants, self-care essentials, and so much more.
These Heart-Shaped Tea Bags ($30) are so cute.
Sneak a cocktail anywhere with this Blush Bestie 2 Piece Flask Set ($28).
This Date Night Bucket List ($18) is a fun way to spice up a routine.
You can use this Doodle by Meg Smiling Heart Print iPhone Case ($27, originally $26) year-round.
The Adventure Challenge Scrapbook ($40-$108) is a keepsake they'll cherish forever.
Thanks to this limited-edition Fenty Beauty Lil Gloss Bombs Mini Lip Duo + Keychain Holder ($24), which includes a new never-before-seen pink coral shade with gold shimmer, you can refresh your lipstick on the go.
Slip Pink Marble Pure Silk Sleep Mask ($50) is an ultra-soft cover that will deliver a good night's sleep.
The Harlem Candle Company Josephine Luxury Candle ($45) is an ode to warm memories in Harlem's jazz clubs and theatres. It's a wonderful blend of bright citrus, bergamot, lush Morrocan Rose, Indian Jasmine and warm liquid amber, sweet Tonka bean, and sandalwood. Basically, it's a luxurious emotional gift.
The fabric of these Stoney Clover Lane Cozy Heart Pouches ($98 each) looks so soft.
What wine-lover wouldn't want to receive this Personalized Love Birds Wine Box ($75)?
Pour your heart out into 12 fold-and-mail letters for your significant other to open the Letters to My Love: Write Now. Read Later. Treasure Forever. ($13) all at once.
HighOnLove Sensual Massage Oil ($45) contains non-psychoactive hemp seed oil for moisturized skin and an ultra-soothing experience.
This Heart Neon Light ($28) is a unique home accent.
These <3 Heart Bookends ($60) will be put on display.
The Pink Anthurium ($68) is one of the longest blooming houseplants.
This Personalized Hand-Written Letter Blanket ($160) is as thoughtful as it gets.
This Lovebox Spinning Heart Messenger ($100-$120) will help bridge the gap for people who are away from their loved ones.
We're definitely getting this Dessert & Dinner Edible Spoon Set ($24).
Slip into these Comme des Garcons Play Peek-A-Boo High-Top Canvas Sneakers ($150).
If your partner is far away, tell them you miss them with these Homesick Candles ($34 each).
The unique look of the Potted Bromeliad Aechmea Pink Indoor Plant ($65) will make everyone stop and stare.
The Graptosedum ($8) is low maintenance, and its shades of pink contrast nicely with neutral homes.
This Things I'd Do (But Just For You) ($4) will show them just how deep your love is.
You can have coffee together in these adorable Kissing Mugs
($65); they're the cutest addition to your kitchen shelf.