Valentine’s Day is next week, and I know that I’m always scrambling to buy a good gift. The trouble is: can you really find an item that says, “I love you”?
My game plan has been to find small, beautiful things. And since Valentine’s is a more intimate holiday, I’ve been thinking about things that are appealing to the senses: sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch. I’ve found a few items this year that I think will make for delightful gifts.
Happy shopping :)
Weekly Favorites
(1) Retro Bluetooth Speaker ($90) || Muzen
I always have music in the background, usually jazz or classical guitar—it puts me in a happier and more romantic mood. Recently, I discovered Muzen’s beautiful retro bluetooth speaker, which has quickly become my favorite household item.
This speaker is pretty small (and they make one that’s even smaller), but the quality of sound is really impressive. It’s so pleasant to interact with. Every aspect of this speaker feels sturdy and well-made, and it even comes with a sturdy traveling case. I love the pink version for Valentine’s, but this also comes in black, green, red, and light blue.
(2) Iznik Garden ($69) or British Flowering Vines Scarf ($150) || Met Museum
Women love scarves: they’re beautiful; they always fit; and they add a pop of color to any outfit. Although Hermès silk scarves are iconic, my favorite selection of scarves is at the Met Museum Store. They make beautiful, tasteful, and well-priced scarves based on famous works of art.
As a spring accessory, the Iznik Garden Silk Scarf is a great choice—it’s a light silk scarf with a tastefully complex design. I’m also obsessed with the British Flowering Vines Embroidered scarf, a medium-weight linen scarf that’s perfect for winter and early spring.
Do men like scarves? I think so, although men seem to really like beanies and baseball caps… the accessories selection from Octobre editions has it all.
(3) Perfume Sample Set ($270) || Dior Beauty
If you’re looking for something luxurious, check out this perfume sample set from Dior. My favorite scents are Jasmin Des Anges, Lucky, and Eden-Roc (the first two of which are included in this set). Note that these perfumes are truly sample size—for a discovery set with more substantial bottles, I would recommend this set instead.
Another great gift fragrance is Chloe’s line of flower-inspired perfumes, Atelier Des Fleurs, which you can buy at Nordstrom’s for faster shipping. I like Magnolia Alba and Jasmine Sambac.
For people who don’t wear perfume, I would recommend Red Flower’s Oceans line: shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and lotion. You’ll smell like you just stepped out of a high-end spa. (Indeed, the NYC-based brand has partnerships with luxury hotels in the city.)
(4) Folding Knife ($24) || Higonokami
In the world of packages, we could probably all use a good knife. Although a classic Victorinox Swiss Army knife is always a crowd pleaser, check out this beautiful folding knife by Japanese maker Higonokami. It’s simple and pleasing to the touch, and I find myself continuously drawn to its beautiful clean lines.
It has always been a guessing game for me when I buy presents for the men in my life. After much trial and error, I’ve come to believe that metal tools (or tool-related things) are the most solid bet.
Two other great gift items: first, this amazing Trusco toolbox. It opens and closes really smoothly, and using it makes household projects feel like a treat. Another item I just encountered is CW&T’s Pen Type-C. I’m amazed by how smooth and secure it feels clipped inside a notebook.
(5) Faye Mug ($16) or Tea for One Set ($42) || Anthropologie
These whimsical mugs from Anthropologie are so cute. I’m obsessed with garden motifs, especially when they include little bugs (which the old Dutch masters would love)… It’s the kind of thing you never need but will cheer you up every time you use it. The tea-for-one set is also adorable.
For a more classic look, you can never go wrong with Le Creuset’s Vancouver Mug or their Kettle and Mug Set.
Always for the First Time
you came and I was crazy for you
and you cooled my mind that burned with longing
— Sappho
On Valentine’s Day, I always feel grateful. I’ve loved and been loved. In a way, what more could you ask for? Yet love is mysterious. And it’s certainly not always easy—whether you’re in love or looking for it.
For people in the chaos of love, I always recommend The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work. I especially like its idea of paying attention to each other’s bids for connection.
Meanwhile, for people in the ups and downs of dating, take a look at this guide on How to Date Like a Secure Person. We often focus on intimacy in relationships, but it’s our ability to mutually regulate that allows us to be in a lasting relationship at all.
For me, this year I am re-reading Anam Cara, which is Celtic for “soul friend.” The approach to life and love expressed in this book is one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever encountered.
Until next time… ❤️ — Jean