Valentine’s Day is more than just another holiday—it’s an opportunity to express love and create memories that last. This year, instead of reaching for a generic box of chocolates or a bouquet of flowers, consider something unique and meaningful.
Los Angeles' artisan community and thriving local businesses make it easy to find thoughtful gifts and experiences that perfectly capture the spirit of love while supporting the city’s creative economy. Read on to discover unique gift ideas for him or her in the Los Angeles metro area.
Gifts for Him
Handcrafted Leather Goods
There’s something timeless about well-crafted leather goods, and L.A. is home to some of the best artisans in the trade. The Goods offers a wide range of products, from sleek wallets to sturdy belts and stylish messenger bags. Each item is handmade, ensuring every piece is unique.
KILLSPENCER is another standout, known for its simple and modern yet luxurious designs, including duffle bags, utility backpacks, wine carriers, and guitar straps. These gifts are ideal for anyone who appreciates high-quality craftsmanship and functional style.
Locally Roasted Coffee
If your Valentine starts their day with a cup of coffee, a locally roasted coffee collection makes a thoughtful and practical gift. Canyon Coffee and Caffe Luxxe offer premium beans with bold and complex flavor profiles.
Consider pairing your selection with a French press, a pour-over kit, or a sleek manual grinder for the ultimate coffee experience. For even more options, check out Jetty Coffee Roasters or Be Bright Coffee.
Artisan Beer or Whiskey
For the craft beer or whiskey enthusiast, Los Angeles' thriving beverage scene offers plenty of options. Monkish and Highland Park Brewery both have wide selections of beers, ranging from hop-forward IPAs to dark lagers.
If whiskey is more their style, Greenbar Distillery’s unique American single malt whiskey is truly a must-try since it’s aged with unique flavor and complexity. To make the gift extra special, consider adding personalized whiskey glasses or a local beer-tasting guide.
Experiential Gifts
Gifts don’t always have to be tangible; sometimes, the best presents are experiences. For beer lovers, a guided brewery tour at Angel City Brewery provides a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process, complete with tastings. Secret Beer Tours: Los Angeles is another excellent option, particularly for those who want to relax, enjoy, and indulge in a total of 12 different tasty beers throughout the tour.
If your Valentine loves the outdoors, a guided urban hike with the Los Angeles Hiking Group is a fantastic way to combine adventure and quality time. Iconic trails like those in Glendale Peak or Mount Hollywood Trail showcase the best of Los Angeles' natural beauty.
Gifts for Her
Locally-Sourced Jewelry
Jewelry is a classic Valentine’s Day gift, and Los Angeles' local jewelers elevate it with unique, handmade designs. Artisan LA Jewelry is a favorite, offering custom and stunning necklaces, earrings, and bracelets that blend artistry with contemporary style.
On the other hand, Irene Neuwirth Jewelry redefines luxury. For more variety, Ariel Gordon Jewelry carries an array of locally-made accessories that cater to different tastes and styles.
Artisanal Chocolates
Chocolate is synonymous with Valentine’s Day, but the city’s artisan chocolatiers take it to the next level. Edelweiss Chocolates offers decadent truffles and beautifully crafted chocolate bars.
Compartes Chocolates is another good option. Handcrafted in Los Angeles, their fine luxury chocolates are unrivaled in design and taste. Consider assembling a chocolate-tasting set for a gift that’s both sweet and sophisticated.
Handmade Candles
For a cozy and romantic touch, handmade candles are a perfect choice. LAIT, a woman-owned and independently operated candle studio, crafts cruelty-free candles in a variety of luxurious scents.
LAWA Candles offers candles with simple and minimalist designs, while Malibu Apothecary offers cleaner, hand-poured candles for a cleaner Earth. Pair the candle with a book or a cozy blanket for the ultimate self-care gift.
Pampering and Relaxation
Few gifts say “I love you” like a spa day. Four Season’s Luxury Spa Los Angeles offers luxurious treatments, including massages, facials, and body treatments that allow her to unwind and feel pampered. Desuar Day Spa is another excellent option, featuring therapeutic skin and body treatments for overall rejuvenation, wellness, and aesthetics. These experiences are perfect for helping her recharge and feel appreciated.
Interactive Experiences
Looking for a way to spend time together while learning something new? A cooking class is a fun and interactive gift.
Cozymeal and CocuSocial feature engaging sessions that cater to all skill levels. Whether it’s perfecting pasta or mastering the art of sushi, these classes make for a deliciously memorable date.
Supporting Local Businesses
Choosing locally-made gifts and experiences does more than create a memorable Valentine’s Day—it supports the talented artisans and entrepreneurs who make Los Angeles such a special place. By shopping local, you’re investing in the community and helping small businesses thrive.
For those who love to explore, vibrant markets in the city like the Unique Markets or Markets for Makers are treasure troves of locally-made goods. These events bring together a wide range of artisans, making it easy to find something unique and heartfelt.
Celebrate Love, Los Angeles-Style
This Valentine’s Day, step away from the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary with gifts that celebrate both love and community. Los Angeles' artisan goods and unique experiences make it easy to find something truly special for your Valentine. Celebrate love creatively, and make this Valentine’s Day one to remember.
Leave a Reply