Valentine’s Day Gifting

by Katelynn Mouton

According to the National Retail Federation, in 2022, Americans spent $23.9 billion on Valentine’s Day gifts for partners, friends, pets and more. This marked the second highest year on record with spending coming in at $175.41 per person on gifts for the love-filled holiday. Candy, greeting cards and flowers, of course, are amongst the top gifts purchased each year.

Locally owned small businesses are gearing up with sweet treats and unique gift offerings ahead of this year’s holiday. Take care of everyone on your Valentine’s Day gift list with these unique ideas.

Flowers

When it comes to Valentine’s Day gift-giving, flowers are traditionally listed as one of the most popular gifts. Lilies, carnations, tulips and, of course, roses, rank amongst the most popular choices.

Local florists like Wendi’s Flower Cart in Lake Charles are planning ahead and encouraging giftgivers to get their orders in early to ensure their selection of the freshest of flowers.

If your cabinets are filled to the brim with old vases and you’d like to recycle them, George’s House of Flowers in Sulphur suggests the perfect opportunity to take them off your hands. The shop offers a discount toward your flower order as a reward for recycling your old vases. Simply bring them by the shop when you are ready to place your Valentine’s Day order.

Many local florists offer online ordering so log in to your go-to shop’s website, make your selection and place your order now to guarantee your special delivery on Valentine’s Day.

Candy & other Sweet Treats

Candy, cookies, cakes and other treats, oh my! The list is endless when it comes to options for sweet treats for your sweetheart.

In addition to their regular favorites that have taken the community by storm, Twanie’s Terrific Treats offers double-sized cookies, perfect for a couple to share after a romantic dinner. They’re also baking a special red velvet cookie to mark the holiday. Much to everyone’s delight, Jo’s Party House has made its triumphant return to the Lake Area via a new location in Moss Bluff. Who can say no to those signature cupcakes or iconic heart-shaped cakes?

If your Valentine is a popcorn lover, don’t miss out on a gift box from RhinoPOP, LLC Special flavors like strawberry cheesecake, cotton candy or even something spicy like cinnamon, all compliment the traditional Valentine’s Day colors. This Lake Charlesbased business also features traditional flavors as well as a variety of candies to choose from. They suggest ordering early to access the best selection of flavors. If your Valentine is watching their waistline, Edible Arrangements in Lake Charles has just the treat for you. From chocolate covered strawberries, to fresh fruit arrangements, these sweet treats offer a guiltfree indulgence. Heart or daisy-shaped pineapples and strawberries dipped in semi-sweet Belgian dark chocolate are just a few options available. If you’re looking for something indulgent, brownies and cheesecakes are also available, and any order can be dressed up with balloons and/or a stuffed teddy bear. Order early online or by calling the store to guarantee your arrangement.

Local salons like Scarborough’s Salon and Day Spa and Alevan Salon Spa Sanctuary offer a wide range of services, from hair care and facials to massages. Help your valentine beat the winter blues with an airbrush tan, blowout or fresh set of lash extensions from Blush and Co

These local relaxation havens can be a one-stop-shop for selecting the perfect gift, and if this is all Greek to you, there are friendly staff standing by, ready to guide you through building the perfect experience.

Self-care isn’t just for the ladies either. ManCave Salon offers a complete grooming experience just for him. This Valentine’s Day, treat the special man in your life to a gift basket of products like shampoo and conditioner and a wide range of beard grooming products such as balms and oils.

No matter what your preferred love language may be, local businesses are eager to help make your Valentine’s Day a special, memorable occasion.