10 last-minute Valentine's Day gifts for your favourite people

The most romantic day of the year is almost upon us, and let’s face it, we could all do with a little extra love this time around.

Even if you’re not someone who typically celebrates Valentine’s Day, there’s cause to show those closest to you that you care on Sunday, February 14, whether over Zoom or a socially-distant activity.

If the annual day of love completely slipped your mind, don’t panic. It falls on a Sunday this year, so there’s instantly some extra wiggle room for presenting gifts based on standard courier delivery schedules.

We’ve rounded up a selection of ideas — with many from Vancouver brands — to help you in your last-minute search.

An adorable card

It’s the thought that counts when it comes to Valentine’s Day gifts. A card penned with sweet words for your better half is a beautiful gift in itself. Canadian-owned company Plantable Greetings makes it better with cards that you can literally plant, resulting in blooming wildflowers. Each time a card like this adorable option pictured ($8.99) is sold, two trees are planted.

Self-care bundle

Spending more time indoors and wearing face masks every time we go outside is bound to have an impact on our skin. Midnight Paloma, a local brand specializing in clean beauty essentials and self-care tools, launched the Besties Bundle ($47) right in time for Valentine’s Day. It includes their rose quartz gua sha face and body tool and all-natural face oil — a combination designed to flush out toxins, regenerate cell growth, and ultimately promote relaxation.

A symbolic bracelet

Jewellery is always a winning gift idea, especially when there’s a symbolic meaning behind the chosen piece. This gorgeous 10-karat yellow gold heart bracelet ($129) designed by Michael Hill is the perfect way to say, “I love you,” without making a fuss. It’s chic and timeless, making it an easy match for everyday outfits and the moments when we (eventually) get dressed up again.

Pom pom beanie

Winter is showing no signs of slowing down in Canada, and we’re still reaching for our coziest coats and accessories every time we head out the door. Continue to stay warm and make a statement with this winter pom pom beanie ($59) by Bânu Magnifique. Available in two colours, it’s ethically made in Vancouver using 100% acrylic yarn.

A coffee-table book

Fans of art and culture (and home decor enthusiasts) are sure to appreciate this Pop Art book ($25), available from Secret Location in Vancouver. It delves into the rise of this modernist movement, with featured artists including Andy Warhol, Robert Rauschenberg, Roy Lichtenstein, Ed Ruscha, Allen Jones, Robert Indiana, and Jasper Johns. It also happens to be a coffee-table book that guests will actually want to peruse.

Vegan leather wallet

These days, our outings comprise of grocery store runs, quick coffee shop visits, and walks with our immediate bubble. As a result, we’re keeping our accessories minimal and bringing only our wallet when we need it. Montreal-based brand Lambert has found a way to make this even more functional with its MELI vegan leather wallet ($59.99). Complete with an adjustable handle, it’s easy to carry and effortlessly practical. 

Bundle for unwinding

We’re all living through a stressful time right now, and it can be easy to forget to slow down and revive. Vancouver company blume is giving us a reason to do this with The Unwind Bundle ($75). It’s the perfect way to restore zen with four organic superfood mixes (Cacao Turmeric Latte Blend, Beetroot Latte Blend, Reishi Hot Cacao Blend, and Blue Lavender Blend) that can be added to everything from smoothies to oatmeal.

Cropped hoodie

Casual, comfortable apparel has become our go-to in recent months while working from home. This cropped hoodie by Indigenous-owned clothing company Spirit Designs & Co ($65.90) is ideal for transitioning from winter to spring and layering under parkas, blazers, and denim jackets. Pair it with high-waisted pants and sail through the seasons in style.

Everlasting floral bouquet

Simply displaying a floral bouquet in your space has the power to spark joy and enhance surrounding interior decor. When the flowers last longer than a couple of days — or months — you know they’re precious. Vancouver’s Bloom Assembly has the optimum gift set ($275) for couples this Valentine’s Day, featuring a limited-edition everlasting large bouquet of dried flowers and an oolong wood wick soy candle from Camilia Candles.

Gold stud earrings

If you know someone who likes to keep their style elegant and simplistic, these everyday 10-karat studs ($60) will only complement their look. Luxurious and affordable, the globe-trotter ball earrings are perfected by Vancouver-based jewellery designer, Tori Dundas, the founder of online brand True Curated Designs. The brand also specializes in made-to-order engagement rings, if you plan to ask your love an important question on Valentine’s Day and design a custom ring later.