Sometimes, when we think about Valentine’s Day, we think of flowers and boxes of chocolates, or the good ol’ days of passing out Valentines our moms made us get for all of our classmates. Since the 14th century, Valentine’s Day—also known as the Feast Day of Saint Valentine—has been a celebration of love and affection, platonic, romantic, and otherwise. (Did you know, Valentine’s Day may actually have originated from the Roman festival Lupercalia, which was held in mid-February and was a celebration of the coming spring and fertility rites?)
When it comes to the holiday, we typically think of celebrations of love and those we care for. Whether it’s finding the perfect gift for our special someone or ensuring we have the best bouquet of roses, that love shouldn’t stop there. Saving a little love for you is vital — it’s important to love yourself first, after all.
At Home, we want to celebrate you, too! It’s a wonderful season to celebrate some love, and shopping and supporting local is a great way to share a little of that love too, since that support can go a long way!
Sometimes that love comes with a little pampering, whether it’s spent shopping around or a spa day! With over 110 local artisans, Rustic Buffalo is the perfect spot to find a gift for just about everyone you’ve asked to be your Valentine! Their plethora of Bills-centric items are sure to wow even the biggest diehard football fan in your life, no matter their age.
Spruce on Main is a perfect shop to simply wander around for whatever catches your eye. Something like their Tiny Heart Necklace might be simple, but it can speak volumes for that special kiddo in your life. A personal favorite of ours are the Big Hearts Little Notes set for every occasion, whether it’s a note left in a lunch box, or a fun, sweet surprise for someone. (It’s like getting mail but there are more personal cards and less bills!)
Buffalo Gal Organics can be a great start for some beauty and skincare. Shop a few of the basics and their Mineral Make Up (their Pressed Powder Foundation is a huge hit!) before heading over to Mind & Body Massage for a Couples Massage with your sweetheart! Leave feeling refreshed and reinvigorated and ready to make the most out of the rest of your Valentine’s Day, whether that’s grabbing dinner at your go-to Buffalo eatery, or trying something new! Wind down at Black Willow Winery and sample some of their wine and food tastings—their wine & chocolate pairings sound especially delicious right about now.
Hanging out more around the Rochester area? No sweat! Trouvaille Beauty Bar is the perfect spot to start with a new hairdo sure to wow your sweetheart and your sweet self! Treat the two of you to a Love You S’More package at Bodywork Unbound to unwind and destress together before heading out on the town.
Got a special guy in your life (or are you the special guy?) who could use a little TLC with their beard? Anyone who’s rocking some sweet facial hair is definitely going to benefit from Rochester-based Bull Elephant’s Moisturizing Balm, chock full of nourishing ingredients for both hair and skin. Don’t forget to check out their Light “Roast” Oil, guaranteed to condition beard hair without some of the residue other products leave behind! No one wants to smooch a greasy beard.
If you’re still keen on the staples (flowers and chocolate!) the Roots in Rochester Scratch bundle with chocolate chip cookies from Stacy K Floral is the way to go. Not only is the bundle delicious and absolutely beautiful, but the cookies also come with gluten free and vegan options as well! RachelCordaro.com also offers a fun twist on finding just the right bouquet for that special someone—try getting them a print instead! Not only are the prints Oasis and Perfect Peonies stunning on their own, but these flowers will last for a lifetime.
All that shopping and self-care tiring you out? Me too. Since you’ve probably worked up an appetite (and, let’s face it, those cookies don’t quite count as dinner!) it’s time to head on down a tour of the Genesee River. For your first stop, check out Tony D’s for some authentic Italian dishes and an incredible wine selection for a romantic night out. If that doesn’t strike your fancy, Dinosaur Bar-B-Que has something for just about every palate with waterside views in the heart of the city! Enjoy some barbecues and brews and don’t forget to take home a bottle or two of their sauces! The perfect Valentine’s Day gift for any carnivore in your life. Still looking for a place to dine and unwind and don’t mind a short trip? Take an adventure and follow the river south to Avon and the stunning, historic Avon Inn. The food is delicious, your company is wonderful, and booking a room is always an option, too. The Avon Inn also offers some wedding packages too, but we’ll leave that between you two.
However you choose to celebrate Valentine’s Day this year, whether that’s a night out on the town or a quiet one in, remember to take a step back and savor the moment. Our love is precious, just as the people in our lives and the experiences we share are. Spend your day with your favorite person—or some of your favorite people—and don’t forget to share a little love for yourself, too!
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