9 Sustainable-Yet-Romantic Gift Ideas for Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, which means the pressure’s on for love birds around the world to show their special someone just how much they care. While flowers and chocolates are a lovely gesture, they’re a little lacking in the inspiration department, so to make sure your gift is hitting the right tone (romantic but not over-the-top and something that they’ll truly appreciate and not just toss in the trash in a few months’ time) we’ve helpfully pulled together a little list of thoughtful gift ideas for Valentine’s Day to help you convey the bottomless pool of affection you feel for your special someone. 

1. Breakfast in bed

Want to spoil your significant other from the moment they open their eyes on Valentine’s morning? Breakfast in bed is the perfect, sweet gesture that will help you show them how much you care. You don’t need to go fancy, either – a simple meal served on a tray with some flowers will be treat enough for them. (Extra points go to loved-up chefs who do the dishes while their partner is getting ready for the day)

2. A picnic in the park

Planning a picnic in the park is a great outing for two that doesn’t require a load of stressful planning. Make sure to grab some of your paramour’s favourite treats (gooey cheeses, and chocolate dipped strawberries are a tasty place to start), stash them in a picnic basket along with a bottle of champagne then take your beau to a spot with beautiful scenery or a gorgeous view for a romantic day out that you’ll both remember.

3. A candle-lit dinner

If you’d like to go traditional this February, one of the best romantic gift ideas for Valentine’s Day is to treat your partner to a lovely candle-lit dinner. Treating someone to a home-cooked meal made with love can be just as romantic a gesture as a tasting menu at a fancy French restaurant – find out their favourite foods and let that dictate the evening. Pro tip: long-stemmed candles are a must for flattering flickers of mood lighting.

4. A romantic walk or hike

Another fun idea is to plan out a romantic walk or hike for your significant other (especially if they enjoy spending time out in nature). You can either stick to a route that you both love or find somewhere brand-new to explore together. Cover all of your bases by bringing snacks and water so they won’t have to think of anything except enjoying their time spent with you. If you don’t have any specific ideas for winter walks, here’s a guide to the eight best ones near London.

5. Sustainable fashion items

In keeping with the sustainable theme, environmentally-friendly fashion items are also a good option for a Valentine’s Day present so long as you feel confident that you know your partner’s style and taste well enough to invest in a buy-for-life garment that they’ll genuinely love and get a lot of use out of. If you need women’s waterproof jacket gift ideas, Protected Species has several waterproof jackets that are made with sustainable manufacturing and will last for a lifetime.

6. Train tickets

Create truly special memories with your loved one by taking them on a fun and exciting trip! Land-based travel means you can forgo the stress of airports, cut down your carbon footprint, enjoy the bucolic views of a new area and arrive directly into the heart of your destination fresh faced and leg cramp-free. The best part is that the memories you make will be something you’ll both carry with you forever.

7. Plants

One of the best sustainable gift ideas for Valentine’s Day is a plant. Adding something green to a living space can freshen up the room and offer something pleasant to look at. Plus, plants won’t end up in a landfill or cause excess waste. Try to stick to long-lasting options such as a rose bush or a beautiful orchid. Then your significant other will think of you every time they look at it!

8. Handcrafted goods

Buying presents that have been handcrafted (especially recycled or repurposed items) means you’re going green and purchasing something that is more special. Keep your eyes open for gift possibilities at places like craft fairs and farmers’ markets for an item that’s both sustainable and thoughtful.

9. Classes

Another sustainable gift option is to surprise your partner with some fun classes you can both do together. The topic can be anything: cooking (so you both can learn some tasty new dishes), photography, dance, a new language – the list goes on. Whatever you choose will help you create some lovely new memories with a creative gift that allows you to spend more time together.

The best way to win your partner’s heart this Valentine’s Day is to demonstrate that you’ve put thought into their gift and that you care about making them feel special and appreciated. Keep in mind that it’s not about how expensive the gift is or buying something that has a luxury status – Valentine’s Day should be all about expressing your love in thoughtful ways that let your loved one know how much you care. And with the gift ideas listed above, you don’t have to fall for buying consumables that won’t last.

Featured image by Jamie Street on Unsplash