Valentine’s Day with a local twist

We’ve all heard the story about Valentine’s Day being created by greeting card companies to force us into purchasing sappy cards and giant musical bears. No matter what the origins, Valentine’s Day isn’t going anywhere and if you’re in a relationship it’s probably a good idea to hop on board. But you don’t have to conform to the usual box of overpriced candies and sparkly hearts. With a little time and effort you can make your Valentine happy while supporting some of Chicago’s best local and independent stores. (Plus you’ll find some pretty amazing products). Here are some of the Valentine Day gift favorites with an independent twist.

1.  Chocolates. This year, skip the heart shaped box full of caramels and head over to Vosges Haute Chocolates. Created in the kitchen of owner Katrina Markoff’s Chicago apartment, this high end, artistic chocolate company is fast becoming a national name.  You can visit the boutiques that started it all in both Lincoln Park and Michigan Ave. This gift will be taking chocolate to a whole new level with Mo’s Milk Chocolate Bacon Bar, the spicy Red Fire Exotic Candy Bar, truffles, bon bons, and more. They also carry vegan and organic chocolates as well as sugar and gluten free products. 

2. Flowers. They might not admit it, but every woman (and a handful of men) secretly hopes to have a large bouquet of flowers delivered to them at the office. If you’re planning to indulge this fantasy lose the expensive middle man and buy your flowers directly from the A&A Floral Arts. This family owned flower shop has been in business for over 15 years and takes the hassle out of flower buying. My husband ordered a bouquet from A&A Floral Arts for me last year and found the price to be the same as the big chain stores. Plus the quality and service was top notch. They even called ahead and asked me when it would be the best time to deliver my gift to me!

3. Cards. If you really want to go old school you can grab some glue and construction paper to make your Valentine’s Day cards kindergarten style. For something just as creative but a bit more upscale, head to one of the many independent stationary shops in Chicago. My favorite is Hazel on 1902 W. Montrose Ave. Their cards range from vintage designs and sock puppets in love, to beautiful drawings by local artist Laura Berger. Everything carries a unique spin (I LOVE the Alternate Histories cards) letting your Valentine know you didn’t just stop off at the Walgreens on your way home from work.