Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. Traditionally, we all know this day as a way to give gifts to a significant other. However, you don’t have to be in a relationship to pursue the merit and meaning of this day. Your friends, family members, and even your neighbors are worth celebrating with, so why not get them something special?
Big box retailers and brand name chains may coerce you to purchase chocolates, jewelry, flowers, and custom gifts from them, but you don’t have to settle for their generic products.
In fact, there’s a variety of stores local to our small town here in Stafford Springs. Many of these stores hand make their goods right in the shop, rather than manufacture them somewhere else. Plus, there’s nothing more special than receiving a custom, handmade gift than a generic one found in the mall.
In fact, we’ve compiled a list of where you can purchase some unique gifts for Valentine’s Day around the area:
Gifts
BellaNess is a gift shop located in downtown Stafford that offers a variety of handmade products from the owner and other artists in town. You can find a bunch of different soaps, candies, and housewares here.
Etsy.com also houses a bunch of hand crafted goods straight from small artists and businesses who sell their products online. Many also re-purpose or recycle products, so you’re guaranteed to find something unique. In fact, many artists in Stafford use this site to sell items.
However, if you’re looking to make your own gifts this Valentine’s Day, why not stop into The Inspiration Station for all your creative needs? The Inspiration Station is also a partner of ours. This shop offers a variety of crafting supplies to make cards, scrapbooks, and other themed gifts for this day.
Sweets
Debbie’s Specialty Cakes LLC is owned by a local baker right here in Stafford Springs. She can make a variety of candies, treats, and cakes for any special occasion!
Russo’s Bakery is an Italian Pastry Shop in Enfield, CT that offers a variety of pastries (like cannolis) and cakes.
Diana’s Bakery is also a bakery located in Enfield, CT that offers pies, cookies, cakes, and other goods.
Jewelry
Two Birds Jewelers is a small studio shop in Ashford, CT owned by an artist who specializes in handcrafting jewelry.
Morande Jewelers is a jewelry shop in Tolland, CT that sells a variety of watches, necklaces, and rings.
Also, if you do plan to buy jewelry it’s an excellent idea to protect it. Unforeseen circumstances, such as theft, burglary, and damage can happen, so make sure your investment is well spent.
Flowers
Greenbriar Florals is located right here in Stafford Springs. They offer a large variety of arrangements and can deliver. Greenbriar is also a partner of our agency, here’s a visit to their shop and what they have to offer.
Wildflowers of Tolland is a small flower shop located in Tolland, CT that can make customized orders and also deliver.
So why should you shop small for Valentine’s Day?
Well first off, you’re paying for quality over quantity. Yes you could get a box of chocolates at Wal-Mart for half the price, but they’re most likely riddled with additives and ingredients not found in high quality chocolates.
Let me ask you, what tastes better – Grandma’s cooking or a microwavable frozen TV dinner? You’re going the want the former, we all would. If you’re going to spend the money you might as well pay for a quality item that will leave a lasting memory.
You’ll also receive high quality customer service when shopping small. For example, you’ll be interacting with someone who understands what they’re selling. It’s why they set up shop in the first place. They understand and care about each product on their shelves, rather than an average retail worker who may not.
Every time you shop small you impact your community. In fact, 60% of a business’s revenue will be put back into the surrounding communities. This is because businesses have to pay property taxes to the town they’re in. This money goes to your local schools, roads, fire, and police departments. Therefore, every time you shop local and small you’re giving back to your community.
So remember, if you plan to show your love to someone this Valentine’s Day with a box of chocolates and some roses, make sure you buy them locally. Nothing says “I love you” more than something made from the heart, and small shop owners pour their heart into their products. Spread the love this holiday and shop small!
Do you have any unique shops you like to visit for Valentine’s Day? If so let us know in the comments below!