For Your Valentine
I'm all about showing your loved ones how much you care throughout the year and in many ways. Quality Time? My favorite. Acts of service? Yes, please. And if you like giving and receiving gifts, you've come to the right place. Here are a few ideas that might help you out. Whatever you choose, make sure it comes from the heart and expresses your love in a meaningful way.
For Him
Show your guy how much you appreciate and know him with a thoughtful gift. Is he looking to be more active and get outdoors? How about upgrading some of his gear? Or does he get excited when you pass an old Landrover Defender 90? There are some beautiful coffee table books. I always like to take inventory of what he’s been interested in, working towards, or curious about, then go from there.
1. 'Iconic' Book
2. Birkenstock Boston Clogs
3. Vuori Joggers
4. Light Speaker by Transparent
5. Ember Mug
6. Loftie Alarm Clock
7. The North Face Thermoball Booties
8. Yeti Colster
9. Garrett Leight "Brooks" Sun
10. LEGO Icons Porsche 911
11. Stetson Canvas Shirt Jacket
12. Whoop
13. iPhone Wallet Stand
14. Blundstones
15. Arc'teryx Gamma Hoodie
16. Anker Mini Projector and 360° Speaker
17. New Balance 'Made in USA 998 Core'
18. Parker and Clay Albera Billfold Wallet
Make room on your coffee table for the ‘Iconic: Art, Design, Advertising and the Automobile’ book. It’s a thoughtfully curated piece that he’ll love and treasure. Plus, it’ll look good in your home.
The Birkenstock Boston Clog in Oiled Leather is a classic. Easy to put on for those weekend coffee walks or hanging out in the backyard.
A new set of “soft clothes,” as we call them, in our home. The Vuori Sunday Joggers paired with the Strato Tech Tee is great for this time of the year.
For the music-loving men in your lives, the Light Speaker by Transparent has excellent sound quality and provides a pleasant ambiance for listening.
The Ember temperature-controlled smart mug is a great gift for someone who loves waking up slowly and sipping coffee in bed.
Give the gift of good sleep and a more enjoyable morning wake-up experience with this Loftie Alarm Clock.
The North Face Thermoball booties are some of the best; with rubber soles, he can wear them inside and out.
The Yeti Colster is a perfect way to keep beverages cool, plus their understated design allows him not to call attention to his Montucky Cold Snack he’s sipping on during your evening neighborhood walk.
Give him a new pair of Garret Leight sunglasses, easy on his eyes and yours.
They say it’s healthy to keep a child-like wonder. Well, I think it’s safe to say that’s a guarantee when he receives the Lego Icons Porsche 911 set. Fair warning: he may want to display this on your mantel afterward.
A timeless, classic shacket is always a good idea. The Stetson Canvas Shirt Jacket is a great choice.
For the guy who likes to geek out over data and analytics, give him the gift of health with a Whoop.
This handy iPhone wallet stand serves a dual purpose: it keeps his items together and is a convenient prop when he has to watch the game while you’re out and about.
Blundstones are classic. Dress the #585 Chelsea Boots in rustic brown, up or down. They’re comfortable, look good and feel great.
The Arc’teryx Gamma Hoodie is a great all-season jacket. It’s wind-proof and water-resistant, making it a staple for traveling and mountain trips.
Take your viewing experiences up a notch with the Anker portable projector and speaker. It’s great for watching the game, hosting an outdoor movie night, or even watching a movie in bed.
It’s always nice getting a new, fresh pair of “cool guy” shoes, as we like to call them. The New Balance 998s are just that. They’re effortless, understated, and are sure to put a little pep in his step.
Parker and Clay is a local brand in Santa Barbara that makes vegan leather goods. Their Albera Billfold wallet is high-quality and ethical; he’ll cherish it for years.
For Her
Are you looking for Valentine's gifts for her? Consider a piece of thoughtful jewelry, a soft pair of pajamas, or even a spa day. For the active woman in your life, items that support her passions are always a good choice. Does she surf? Maybe a new wetsuit. A skier? How about a new pair of gloves to keep her warm on the slopes? Whatever you choose, the most important thing is to show her how much you care and appreciate her.
Pajamas are always a great idea; There are a variety of brands depending on her style and your budget. The most coveted pajamas and at a higher price point are the Luyna Washable Silk Long Sleeve Pant Set, and I love the limited edition Swan White. Another great option is the soft, luxe Eberjey Relaxed Short PJ Sets, or for a more affordable option, try these Target Pajamas; they have the same look and feel for a fraction of the cost.
If there’s something that I love and use daily, it’s candles. I always appreciate a good-quality, nice candle. The Jenni Kayne Cedar candle has a long, clean burn time and smells incredible.
I have the Mejuri Bold Huggie Hoops in gold and wear them daily. Next on my wishlist? The silver pair.
There’s something about a fresh, new workout set. I’ve been a longtime fan of the LuLulemon monotone looks; my go-to is the Flow Y Bra paired with the Align High-Rise Pant. As for color, I’m into Navy, Olive, and, most recently, Espresso.
If Merit’s not already in her makeup cabinet, I guarantee it’s about to be. The newest “it” makeup brand is taking the industry by storm. Gift her the Merit Shade Slick, and I know she (and her lips) will thank you. Not sure what color? The Au Natural shade is a safe bet.
The Mansur Gavriel bags are classic, timeless, and understated. I love the size and proportions of the Mini Mini Bucket Bag. It’s the perfect accessory for a date night or drinks with the girls.
I’ve been using the Oak Essentials skincare routine and have noticed such an improvement in my skin. It’s hydrated, glowy and healthy. She’ll love the Oak Essentials Routine gift set or any of their products!
The Birkenstock Boston Clogs are popular for a reason. They’re cute and comfortable. She’ll dress them up or down for that effortlessly chic look.
A new fragrance is always a great way to go. I’ve been wearing the Oak Essentials Violet Santal Eau de Perfume.
We love a pair of “cool girl” sneakers, the ones we throw on, and instantly our outfit looks good. Well, The Hawk Sneakers by Gola are a great choice.
Shared Experiences
I adore gifts that provide an experience and an opportunity to spend quality time together. Whether making homemade pizzas or having a cozy movie night at home, I love adding extra fun and special touches to make the occasion even more memorable.
The pasta starter set is a must-have if you want to bring Italy to your kitchen for the evening. Light some candles, put on some jazz music, and crack open a bottle of wine for a perfect night in.
Another fun gift idea is the DIY Taco Night with Masienda Tortilla Starter Kit. The kit includes all the necessary ingredients, including Masienda's bestselling Heirloom Corn, Masa Harina (Blue & White), and an excellent tortilla press. It's on my wish list, and I can't wait to try it out!
The fondue set is an excellent choice for a romantic candlelight dinner. It adds a little European flair to the evening, and I love the ambiance created by the candlelight.
The Sourdough Bread Baking Set is an excellent gift if you're shopping for a baking enthusiast. I was recently gifted one, and it's been one of the best gifts I've ever received. We've had fun making fresh, delicious, homemade sourdough bread.
Lastly, if you're a pizza fan like us, the Ooni pizza oven is a must-have. We broke it out for Valentine's Day last year, and it's become an annual tradition. This year, we're even trying to make our dough from scratch. Wish us luck!