Valentine's Day is a centuries old tradition which has evolved slightly over time but still focuses on one thing: expressing your love for someone with words and gifts. In 18th-century England, it evolved into an occasion in which lovers expressed their affection for each other by presenting flowers, sweets, and sending greeting cards. In some parts of Europe, Saint Valentine's Keys are given to lovers as an invitation to unlock the giver's heart. Today, handwritten valentines have given way to mass-produced greeting cards, and gifts have become a bit more luxurious.
We recently shared a list of personalized luxury gifts on our site. From custom designed sterling silver cuffs to engraved bottles to embroidered bags, this list features several gift ideas that will make wonderful Valentine's Day gifts. The customization will add a personal touch to your gift…we'll call it the modern day handwritten Valentine.
Monthly subscription boxes are another fabulous gift idea, because the gift can last all year. Once a month your lover will be reminded of how much you care. Think beyond the old "wine of the month" club and look at monthly services that offer designer shades, trendy accessories and jewelry, and even personal products for men. You can see our list of recommended luxury subscription boxes in this post.
If you want to get back to the original Valentine, a handmade card, you'll love Poppy's Papercuts. This artist creates custom pieces of art that you help design. You can add a name, message, or custom design to these one-of-a-kind paper cut cards. Expect this card to be framed and treasured forever. You can contact Poppy here to commission your own design.
If you want to go the confectionary route to gift giving, a luxurious alternative to Godiva is the award winning Amelia Rope Chocolate. Rope founded her chocolate business in 2007, initially crafting small batches that were made-to-order. But when she was commissioned to craft 1,000 chocolate bars, it propelled her into the retail market. Now a supplier to Selfridges in England, she makes around 20 chocolate bars, as well as these brightly foiled and deliciously tasty chocolate cubes that comein three options: pale, dark or sea salt collections. You can even commission your own chocolates from Amelia.
Finally, for those who like to send flowers, a high quality option is H.Bloom. Their expert designers create high-quality bouquets and installations that are delivered by hand to individuals and businesses on a timetable they set.
Enjoy indulging your Valentine this year with these modern, upscale takes on cards, candies, and flowers! So which gift will you choose?