Looking for sustainable Valentine’s Day gifts for your loved ones? We’ve rounded up 10 ideas that will impress your other half without costing the Earth.
Your Go-to Guide For More Sustainable Valentine’s Day Gifts in 2021
Sourcing sustainable Valentine’s Day gifts may sound like a mammoth task, but trust us, it’s a lot easier than you might think. They don’t have to cost the Earth either (both in an economic and environmental sense). The main takeaway is that you get your Valentine something that they will love and use, while limiting the impact that your chosen gift has on the planet. It’s out with the haphazard consumerist gifts and in with the more thoughtful alternatives that will get you in the good books.
Make a day of date night and get out in the fresh air
Whether you’re a pair of urban dwellers or rural natives, there's no better way to spend some quality time with each other than out in the fresh air. Nature hubs and sightseeing spots await, but why not go the extra mile and make your outing more sentimental? You could create an outdoor trail with an accompanying quiz – just make sure you wrap up warm (it’s February, after all). For bonus points, prepare a cosy set-up with homemade hot chocolate for after the walk.
Shop small and support independent businesses
Supporting small businesses and independent makers is a great thing to do if you’re on the hunt for more sustainable Valentine’s Day gifts. You might decide on jewellery, homeware or prints, but if you can’t decide, you can sift through items by independent sellers on platforms like Etsy. Instagram is another great space to uncover new sellers and shop small, so keep an eye out next time you’re scrolling.
Whip up a batch of home-baked goods
What’s the best way to ensure that your gift doesn’t go to waste? Make it edible, of course! We have a whole host of recipes to choose from, many of which are vegan. With truffles, cupcakes and brownies on the cards, this is one of the best gift ideas for any chocolate lovers out there. Of course, you can switch it up with savoury goods just as easily. If you can, try to hunt out Fairtrade or organic ingredients.
Purchase preloved gems
It’s no secret that the most sustainable Valentine’s Day gifts are those that already exist on Earth, but this doesn’t restrict you to battered old hand-me-downs, oh no. Alongside your usual charity shops and vintage fairs, there are plenty of online platforms like eBay to hunt out specific items, often brand new and unused. There are coffee table books, luxury clothes and electronic goods up for grabs – the world is your oyster if you’re open-minded!
Craft your own gifts together
At-home craft kits have become somewhat of a staple in recent months and it’s a great opportunity to unearth brand new hobbies. From candle-making to pottery, embroidery to calligraphy, there’s something for every couple out there. If you already have supplies lying around, an accompanying YouTube tutorial in your desired craft is sure to do the trick – this is your chance to repurpose or upcycle items that would otherwise go to waste.
Fill a hamper with goodies
A hamper, whether it’s stuffed with food or gifts, is always a crowd-pleaser. You can create one from scratch or go all out with a pre-made masterpiece filled with items you know they will love. If you have a chocolate-lover on your hands, we have you covered with our bundles – they’re ideal when it comes to Valentine chocolate gift baskets. You can even add sentimental extras like printed photographs.
Order in a takeaway three-course meal (or cook one yourself)
Food, glorious food! With so many restaurants now offering takeaway menus, this is yet another opportunity to shop small and show your local independents a little love too. Keep an eye out for any Valentine-specific menus, as they’re sure to include romantic extras for the occasion. Of course, if you’re up for the challenge, you can put your culinary expertise to the test by cooking a three-course meal yourself. Round up some candles, grab a bottle of vino and you’re all set.
Set up the ultimate cinema night
Why not bring your usual trip to the cinema into your living room this Valentine’s Day? It’s one of the easiest, most cost-effective ways to enjoy a more sustainable Valentine’s gift in 2021. If your other half prefers the theatre, you can make the most of West End shows and world-renowned ballets online. Want to make it extra special? Bake homemade treats for the occasion, from doughnuts to vegan mug cakes.
Fill a jar with something that will make them smile
All you need here is a container and a bit of creativity. Wash out a glass jar, spruce it up with a ribbon and fill it with something that that will put a smile on your Valentine’s face. Hand-written memories are sure to go down a treat, but it’s also a great opportunity to make a bank of date ideas too. They can pick out a piece of paper when they need a little boost and it’s a sure-fire way to let them know how much they mean to you.
Sign them up to a subscription service they’ll love
A thoughtful subscription service enables you to spread your Valentine’s Day gift all-year round. To make sure your choice is a more sustainable one, consider whether the items will go to good use and that it’s with a company you believe in. You may just want to treat them, in which case a Fairtrade chocolate subscription box is the perfect choice – our chocolate comes in fully recyclable and compostable wrapping. We also offer a fully vegan option.
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