5 Unique Eco-Conscious Valentine's Day Gift Ideas

Valentine's Day can be full of consumeristic goods plaguing the stores in hopes of being purchased, but you don't have to give in. Here are few ideas that you can get for anyone, while being a bit more eco-conscious:

1. DoorDash 

• Do you know their favorite food? 

• Do you know where they will be?

  •  Surprise them with a special delivery.

2.  Massage

• Has the person you care about been stressed lately?

• Have they been trying to accomplish something difficult?

  • Show them you understand, you want to nurture them, and want them to be successful by letting them recharge for their next endeavors.

• Try to find a spa that offers eco-friendly options and treatments.

3.  Romantic Nature Experience

Plan an interesting experience: 

• Horseback Riding

• Nature Hike

• Stroll through Botanical Gardens

• Picnic at the park

• Trip to the Zoo

• Pictures at the National Forest

4.  Cook Dinner

• A night in for dinner is very romantic and can be cheaper than going out

• It can also be a better time knowing you avoided V-day crowds and some of the hype while still being able to celebrate

• This could be a great option if you haven't done something like this in awhile

  • Be sure to plan ahead! Make sure you also have bottle of wine, or something to drink.

5.  Make Something

• If you are crafty and know they want something you can make, go ahead and make it for them:

Valentine's Day usually falls around winter, some ideas that fit that season are:

• Making pie

• Crotchet or knitting a beanie or socks

• Make stickers

• Make them smile! 

What aren't the best Valentine's Day gifts, in general, and for sustainability?

1. Unhealthy chocolates

• •  Opt for local bakeries, chocolate factories, or gourmet raw vegan deserts instead

2. Heavily packaged goods

• • Find something minimally packaged, or that engages in climate friendly behavior instead

3. Stuffed animals, one-time-use toys

• • Cheap toys that won't have a long life, try to pick something that is more lasting instead

4. Cards

• • Gift cards, card sleeves, card holders, cards to say something sweet, etc. can all be replaced by digital or the real thing in words

  • The cards inevitably end up in the trash, don't waste money on card holders or postage, spend the money on the person, not something that will go into the trash can

What are some other sustainable and eco-friendly Valentine's Day gift ideas?

1. Flowers

2. Art

• Local art

3. Gemstone Jewelry

4. Health & Fitness Gifts

• Hot yoga class

• Spin class

• Mineral hot springs

5. Home improvement project

• New shower addition

• New backyard space

• etc. 

6. Vintage memorabilia

• Something meaningful to someone from a specific time