Not everyone is a fan of Valentine’s Day, but it’s an undeniable way to show someone you love that you appreciate their support and company. And while you could just gift a box of chocolates and call it a day, we think something for the home is thoughtful, special, and even more fitting this year when restaurant dates and getaways prove more challenging.
“I love the idea of gifting home decor for Valentine’s Day because it’s something that lasts,” says Havenly senior designer Shelby Girard. “Now more than ever, we’re cherishing anything that makes our homes feel warmer and more magical, so a simple candle, cozy blanket, or even preserved flowers that will last longer than a week is a great approach to giving this year.”
With Shelby’s help, we’re presenting several ideas for designer-approved Valentine’s Day gifts across a range of price points and styles. They’re perfect for loved ones and friends alike (hello, Galentines!), and provide a genuinely thoughtful way to say “I heart you.”
For the At-Home Entertainers
We’ve all become amateur bakers and bartenders over the past several months, so why not celebrate someone’s new skills? Minimalists will love this chic, stoneware baking dish from Crate & Barrel in a striking black and white colorway and a hint of textured patina. Whether their love language is chocolate or cheese, an at-home fondue set is a kitschy yet totally cool throwback, and we love the midcentury-inspired lines of this one, also from Crate & Barrel.
Shelby also suggests stylish cocktail glasses for the at-home bar. “A set of special occasion glassware gives a reason to make nights in a bit more magical,” she says. “You can even break it in with a Valentine’s Day cocktail!”
For the Homebodies
What pairs best with Netflix and pajamas? A cozy throw. “Keep it neutral, so it can be used throughout the house,” says Shelby, who suggests this absolutely gorgeous, chic, goes-with-everything wool blanket from CB2. A sumptuous, velvety pillow from our Havenly Essentials collection in a beautiful, on-trend shade of artichoke green is a huggable pick (and pairs nicely with the throw).
Shelby’s top pick melds self-care with style: this Slip silk pillowcase offers a luxurious way to nod off every night while potentially reducing wrinkles, bedhead, and those dreaded “sleep creases” that pillowcases can sometimes cause upon waking the next morning.
For the Ambience-Makers
Nothing sets the mood for romance, or just coziness, than candlelight, and as Shelby says, “everyone loves a candle — especially one where you can reuse the vessel once you burn it out.” Her pick? A pedestal-style, black-and-white marble candle from Lulu & Georgia. (We also have a thing for NEST Candles.)
For the Green Thumbs
Roses are red, violets are blue… we get it. Flowers are big for Valentine’s Day. But they also fade fast. Instead, give choice stems that endure, such as preserved flowers, like this dried gypsophila bouquet from Anthropologie. Not only will they add a graceful touch in home, they’re very on-trend at the moment. For bonus points, give them in a vase — Shelby recommends this sculptural design, also from Anthropologie.
Inspired to gift some design magic? We’ve got you covered with a Havenly gift card.