I’ve written my fair share of Valentine’s Day blog posts in my day, and if you look back over the years, they typically share two themes: “I hate Valentine’s Day, it’s DUMB” or “Valentine’s Day is a fun way to celebrate love and if you hate it, you’re DUMB.” I may be paraphrasing.

Point is, I’ve wavered in my feelings toward Valentine’s Day. Not because I hate the celebration of love, but very specifically, I hate the cultural notion (and accompanying commodification) that romantic love is be-all and end-all.

We assign so much value to romantic relationships while ignoring what I consider to be equally valuable relationships with one’s self and the people you choose to surround yourself with. I think it’s made us all a little desperate and unnecessarily lonely at some point in our lives.

I’m aware I’m writing this as someone who very publicly runs an Instagram account that heavily features my relationship with my husband. I’m beyond blessed to have him. I just wish in the years leading up to having him in my life I didn’t feel like garbage in a rat’s front teeth simply for being single.

So while I love Valentine’s Day, and I love a moment to show someone you love them, I would encourage you to use it as an opportunity to explore what showing love looks like beyond just a romantic partner, including self-love.

Cue U + Ur Hand by P!NK.

And now that I’ve sent you some appropriately mixed signals that reflect my own psyche, I’m going to give you gift ideas to help you show your love this upcoming V Day.

Below you’ll find a list of gifts that will add a little extra excitement to your own life or someone you care about deeply. They’re not too extravagant, or even overly romantic, just sweet somethings for those sweet someones. Let me know if you get anything!

Xoxo

Beau

Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Heart | $165
For all of my Le Creuset loving girlies, you’ve seen this year after year and wanted it every time. Just get it, baby.
Valentine Heart Baking Pan | $13
Not gonna lie this was so fucking cute to bake with, you can see what we made in the photos above! Adorable, and something I’ll use beyond just Valentine’s Day.
Teapot Tea Infuser | $9
Pair with your giftee’s favorite loose leaf tea for a sweet little display of love.
Death of Patroclus Candle | $35
Pretty in pink, our Death of Patroclus candle is our most popular scent, with sweet and musky hints of rose, bright pink peppercorn, and earthy potting soil.
Luxury Rose Bath Soak | $35
Light some candles, put on a record and set the mood with a romantic bath.
Heart Shower Steamers | $10
A romantic shower is also totally on the table.
We're Not Really Strangers Self-love Edition Game | $20
Get intimate with yourself this Valentine’s! Self-love is so important and often overlooked
J. Crew Striped Red Pajamas | $98 (now 50% off)
Picture it: a romantic night in matching PJs with your boo. Just us…?
Heart Stemmed Bud Vase | $12
Imagine putting a single rose stem in this vase! Chic!
Nordstrom Cotton Pajamas | $85
A cozy set for Valentine’s Day cuddles with your favorite person.
Heart Bubble Candle | $10
A little something to say “I’m thinking about you this Valentine’s Day, but not in an over-the-top way.”
Mystery Date Nostalgia Edition Board Game | $34 (now 30% off)
A real throwback game for a fun night in.