Valentine’s Day is only a few days away! You might be thinking of celebrating heart’s day with your significant other, your family, or even just yourself (and hey, that’s okay!). We know how stressful it can be to find something that’s both thoughtful and useful, that’s why we have listed some local businesses here in Portland that have awesome options for you! There are some classic gifts as well as unique ones. Excited to find some cool stuff to give out on February 14th? Read ahead!
Kyra’s Bakeshop
First on our list is the only four-time winner of Cupcake Wars on the Food Network, Kyras’ Bakeshop. Its owner, Kyra Bussanich, learned to bake gluten-free after years of suffering from an autoimmune disease and making do with dry and tasteless store-bought baked products. Her creations are now enjoyed by non-celiac, non-vegan, and gluten-free customers alike.
She wanted to challenge the status quo by extensive experimentation with gluten-free products. That’s how she was able to build an award-winning bakery here in Portland. Her business offers more than 125 varieties of treats and baked goods and is recognized by the Huffington Post, USA Today, The Today Show, Food and Wine Magazine, and more.
Kyra’s baked goods are a perfect gift this Valentine’s Day or a treat for yourself! They currently offer pick-up to-go options in their NW 21st Ave and Lake Oswego locations.
Our Top Pick(s): Cinnamon Rolls | Orange Bounty | Full menu here.
Pistils Nursery
Next up is this place for plant lovers, Pistils Nursery. They pride themselves on being more than just a plant store. They aim to remind people that much like plants, we all need to be loved and taken care of! Their products are perfect to give on the 14th. Plus, plants are not as cliche as flowers.
Whether you’re giving a gift to a budding plant parent or a gardening expert, there’s something for you to find at Pistils Nursery. They have cool plant assortments, plant accessories, and even virtual workshops.
Visit their website and The Pistils Journal to find out more about plant care resources, DIY projects, and botanical inspirations.
Our Top Pick(s): Spring Houseplant Care | Apothecary Aerium
Cooperativa
Cooperativa is an awesome local market that offers products from small producers and quality purveyors. Here, you can find local vendors with a creative approach towards the usual food and beverage business model. They always try to develop new ways to carry out their daily business which keeps their products an interesting gift to give to your loved ones.
You can find sustainable florals, artisanal cheeses, handmade pastas, house sauces, and local farm-direct produce. Nothing is more thoughtful than practical gifts that are sourced from local vendors who give a high level of attention to their products.
Our Top Pick(s): Artisanal Cheeses by Cowbell Fine Cheese | Sustainable Florals from Coy & Co. | Shop here.
Zupan’s Markets
Zupan’s Markets is another great place to buy the best quality ingredients and curated gifts in Portland. They carry farm-fresh produce, high-quality meat, aged cheese and wine, and a lot more! Their locations are full of awesome gifts that would be appreciated by anyone this Valentine’s day!
They have been around for 65 years, but the family still strives to provide the best-tasting and highest quality items for Portland food lovers. Whether you want to cook meals from scratch or purchase ready-to-cook items, they have excellent options for you! You must drop by the store before your date night so you can impress the person you love.
If you’re still unsure what to prepare, you may visit their website for recipes. You can even order flowers to complete your date night set up.
Our Top Pick(s): Ready-to-Cook Beef Wellington | Chocolate Covered Strawberries | Designer’s Choice Hand Tied Bouquet
Betsy & Iya
Fifth on our list of the best Valentine’s gifts you can give is Betsy & Iya. They offer fresh and modern custom jewelry that often include brass, gold, and geometric-style cutouts. Many customers have come to them for their engagement and wedding bands, so they’re a great option if you’re thinking of popping the question.
Betsy & Iya’s mission is to amplify and celebrate the beauty, strength, and connection of all people. They’re also anti-fast fashion which means they strive to engage only in ethical fashion practices. It’s also important for them to work with BIPOC, women, and LGBTQIA artists and designers.
They’re so confident in the quality of their products that they offer free repairs. They believe that it would be best for you to spend your money on something that you’ll love than to buy 10 pairs that you’ll only kinda like. Support local Portland makers by purchasing your gifts from Betsy and Iya! No matter the price point, they’ve got something for you here.
Our Top Pick(s): Ipsum Stud Earrings | Bridge of the Gods Cuff Bracelet
Nothing Bundt Cakes
If you want to give someone special a moist and delicious cake to celebrate heart’s day, make sure to order one from Nothing Bundt Cakes! Let’s be honest, you can buy the entire thing for yourself. Their cakes are so well-loved, some even consider getting one as their wedding cake. That’s saying a lot if you ask me!
Founders Dena and Debbie wanted to create a perfect cake recipe from only the best ingredients一real eggs, butter, and cream cheese. The result was so loved that their families and friends encouraged them to entertain more and more. Now their cakes are enjoyed in many states and multiple locations here in Oregon.
Crowd favorites include their chocolate and red velvet flavors, but some recommend their sampler so you can try out all their decadent, melt in your mouth cakes.
Our Top Pick(s): Red Velvet Bundt Cake
We hope you were able to get some inspiration for your Valentine’s gift hunting. No matter what you decide to give, just remember that it’s the thought that counts.
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