Lo and behold, February has arrived in full force—and yes, we’re grateful since, to be quite frank, the bleakness that is January tends to feel a million days long. With it comes the onslaught of heart-shaped everything, over-the-top flowers and a palette of just about every shade of pink and red. Plus, how can we forget the exorbitantly priced tasting menus, impossible reservations and a general conundrum over what and how to gift reasonably.
This year, however, there’s no need to break the bank (or your neck) hunting for a gift that’s just-right. And, you know you’re better than perishable flowers and cheap drugstore candy, too. In place of cheap carnations dyed in artificial hues, try something a little more durable. A succulent or durable green plant will brighten up any home and purify the air for bonus points. Similarly, no one can resist a luxurious candle—maybe you feel guilty splurging on such an unnecessary item for yourself, but will likely appreciate it being on the receiving end of one. As for those tacky boxes of chocolate? There’s too many better-quality brands to nibble on for them to become a go-to.
Maybe you prefer to go the route of small-but-mighty updates on essentials. An AirPods case decorated with a heart will remind them of your love anytime they take a call or hit play on a new podcast, while a rich body balm from Aesop will elevate the simple act of moisturizing their overworked, parched hands. Shop our edit below and trust us, they’ll return the love.