When it comes to buying gifts, I’m a strong supporter of buying local. In a day when “artisan” and “handcrafted” have become buzzwords, it should come as no surprise that the market for handmade, locally-made goods is more popular than ever. So this Valentine’s gift guide is just that—it includes some great, handcrafted Valentine’s gift ideas that are made right here in Minnesota.
While I love myself some vintage glassware, it’s become increasingly hard to find. Fortunately, Minneapolis home decor shop Honeyshine (which was recently spotlighted in Better Homes & Gardens magazine) has started designing its own line of vintage-inspired glassware, which it has manufactured by a local glassware maker. So far, it has released this chic chevron style—a great option for guys and girls alike. $9 each or 4 for $36, available in-store only @ Honeyshine, 2720 W. 43rd St., Mpls., 612-377-7300, honeyshine.net
It’s February in Minnesota, which means we’re still in need of cozy warm knits. Wool & Whiskey, featured in our January spread on Minnesota-made knitwear, just released a new handknit scarf in rose pink—perfect for Valentine’s Day. $67 @ thewoolandwhiskey.com
Nothing says “let’s cuddle” better than a cozy, luxurious blanket or scarf from Faribault Woolen Mill. And in honor of the Valentine’s season, the Minnesota manufacturer has marked down select red and pink goods by 20 percent. $24-$320 @ faribaultmill.com
And nothing goes better while you’re wrapped in that Faribault blanket than a steaming cup of tea. Located near the Grain Belt Brewery, Mrs. Kelly’s tea warehouse sells its own distinctive blends—such as the Earl Blue, a smoky-lavender twist on Early Grey—and Chocolate Mink. The brand even has a Bath Tea, a blend of jasmine, sage, French lavender, rose petals, and calendula blossoms that can be served both as a beverage and in the bath. Mrs. Kelly’s Tea, 77 13th Ave. NE Suite 103, Minneapolis, 763-788-8753, mrskellystea.com
Minnesota-based skincare and fragrance brand Illume has a special selection of Valentine’s Day gift items and sets, including candles, bar soaps, diffusers, bath salts, perfumes, and hand creams. “Anemone Go Be Lovely” Gift Set, $19 @ illumecandles.com
Just about every lipstick-wearing gal is a sucker for beautiful packaging. Fortunately, Minnesota-based beauty brand Elixery has truly outdone itself with its latest lipstick packaging. The glam gold tube casing make it perfect for flashing in between dinner courses or on display atop a vanity, and the various shades are equally rich, creamy, and luxurious. Elixery lipstick in “Swoon,” $22 @ elixery.com
Some call it cliché, but I think you can’t go wrong with the classic combination of flowers and chocolates—especially if the flowers come from a local florist and the chocolates are Minnesota-made. I recommend local florist Spruce Flowers and Home, which is known for its unique, modern floral arrangements and great customer service. It also stocks terrariums and a gift and jewelry outpost from chic fashion boutique Mille at its 50th & France location. Spruce Flowers and Home, 4940 France Ave. S., Edina & 4751 Chicago Ave. S., Mpls., 612-767-1101, sprucemn.com
Minnesota boasts a ton of chocolatiers. History buffs will appreciate Abdallah Candies, Canelake’s Old Fashioned Hand Made Candies, Great! Lakes Candy Kitchen, and Pearson Candy Company all of which have been around since the early 1900s. Newer artisanal chocolate makers include B.T. McElrath, Mademoiselle Miel, Just Truffles, St. Croix Chocolate Co., and my favorite, Chocolat Céleste, a tiny, St. Paul-based shop that specializes in truffles made from ingredients from local farms and imported European chocolates, wrapped in beautiful packaging. Chocolat Céleste, 652 Transfer Rd., Ste 16A, St. Paul & Valentine’s Day pop-up at Victoria Crossing, 857 Grand Av., St. Paul, 651-644-3823, chocolatceleste.com
The socially conscious jewelry designs of Minneapolis-based designer Anne Lenhardt Koebele’s Hardt Jewelry (featured in the February issue of Minnesota Monthly) encourages its wearers to be striking and take a stand. Best of all, proceeds of her heart-shaped Equal Hardt Necklace benefit Minneapolis LGBTQ organization RECLAIM. Equal Hardt Necklace, $70 @ hotrocity.com
