Amid a new National Retail Federation report that consumers plan to increase 2023 Valentine’s Day spending to nearly $26 Billion, up from $23.9 billion in 2022 and one of the highest spending years on record, it begs the question as to what the top “sweetheart swag” will be this year. While there are numerous tried and true holiday gift ideas for our loved ones, many of these perennial favorites now offer an innovative twist that levels up your gift giving game. Many people also prefer to buck convention, using this holiday to express love and affection with unexpected gifts that can ease and enhance the recipient’s life. Here is a range of marvelous Valentine’s Day gift ideas for those who fall in either camp.
Rose Box NYC’s Long Lasting Real Roses (https://roseboxnyc.com/)
Who doesn’t love flowers … especially ones that last all year? Rose Box NYC specializes in creating long-lasting arrangements with its specially preserved roses. While there is a wide away of options to choose from, the Bell Premium Half Ball option is a luxurious and unique alternative to the standard bouquet. This arrangement beautifully encases 55 extra-large and preserved roses in a modern and sleek vase adorned with elegant gold detailing. Rose Box NYC even perfumes each arrangement with the brand’s signature light and sweet floral scent, which is made of natural oils and fragrances — although it may be opted out of during the order process. Rose Box NYC’s roses come from Ecuador, where they are carefully preserved using the company’s proprietary process to stay fresh for a full year without any maintenance. There, they are harvested when the roses are at their best, preserved, colored (or sprayed in metallics) and then transported to New York City to be assembled into the arrangement of your dreams. Available to ship anywhere in the U.S., and internationally, in a range of shapes, colors and sizes, Rose Box NYC was founded on the precedence of love and passion for fresh-cut roses and what they symbolize. Now, the New York City-based flower atelier is helping to make these flowers part of peoples’ home design, a fashion statement and an encouragement of positive energy flow wherever they are present.
Perrier-Jouët’s Belle Epoque Rosé 2013 Limited Edition Gift Box (https://www.perrier-jouet.
In celebration of the 120th anniversary of Perrier-Jouët’s Belle
PEJU Winery Gift Set (https://www.peju.com)
A classic duo done the PEJU Winery way is its Cabernet and Chocolates gift set, which makes for a distinctly memorable—and delectable—treat. The Cabernet and Chocolates set features its 91-point Cabernet Sauvignon that offers drinkers a blend of wild blackberry, dark chocolate and candied orange rind notes and a silky finish. Paired with PEJU Cabernet truffles crafted by local chocolatier, Anette’s Artisan Truffles, this decadent combination is elevated and neatly packaged in a handsome PEJU Winery gift box. But, for those who prefer to let the vino speak for itself, the award-winning winery’s 2019 Fifty/Fifty is a highly acclaimed vintage worthy to gift on its own. It features aromas of black fruit, baking spice and cedar notes. Decadent boysenberry preserve flavors flow across the palate enhanced by white pepper and toffee caramel on the finish. This PEJU fan-favorite is a blend of 50 percent Merlot and 50 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, with the Merlot helping to soften the tannins of the Cabernet Sauvignon and lends a plush texture to this age-worthy wine. This year marks 40 years in the heart of Napa Valley for the family-owned winery, which is dedicated to making classic wines that reflect the unique character and quality of its six estate vineyards.
Bracelet Bundle from Moonglow Jewelry (https://www.moonglow.com/)
For a style statement that is both bold and sophisticated, check out Moonglow Jewelry’s Titan and Onyx Energy Bracelet Bundle. It’s the ultimate combo for anyone who is ready to take on the world. The company connects people to their most significant memories, events and moments by depicting an image of the moon phase of an important date on the jewelry, itself. Moonglow Jewelry’s Titan and Onyx Energy Bracelet Bundle is a handsome statement set. It features matte black material that complements nearly any look and can be worn daily, or when you’re really dressing to impress. Perfect for him or her, the onyx beads pair nicely with the matte black of the Titan Bracelet—helping the piece’s chosen moon phase charm shine even brighter. Select a date with significant meaning, such as an anniversary, wedding, birth or memorial date or any meaningful moment, and take it wherever you go with this meaningful accessory. The company’s online calculator quickly helps you find the moon phase for the date desired, including a brief snippet of its unique qualities. Since its start, Moonglow Jewelry has grown from trade shows to a full online operation that ships to more than 100 countries, helping illuminate thousands of memories all over the world. In a rush? With express shipping, your custom-made moment will arrive to you within three days.
Spiritual Jewelry by Katia Designs (https://katiadesigns.com/)
Give the gift of style and empowerment with Katia Designs’ handcrafted jewelry. The South Florida-based company designs spiritual jewelry meant to empower the wearer and speak to their heart. The brand’s “I Am Pretty F***ing Awesome | Eye | Original Necklace,” for example, boldly promotes self-worth in a striking fashion, which also features black and silver beads with tiger’s eye, onyx, moonstone and a bronze or silver-finished pendant. Created by owner Catherine “Katia” Rudnick and her team, each piece of jewelry features an inspiring message, as well as other earth-centric components such as gemstones, crystals and more. But the journey to the brand’s formation was not a traditional one. Not much of a jewelry wearer herself, Katia was surprised when a medallion bracelet worn by a fellow yogi caught her eye. It was more than just the design of the bracelet that inspired her; it was the desire to recreate the same feeling for others. That same day, Katia drove to a local art school and signed up for a metal clay class and it was in this very studio that she eventually crafted the first prototypes of her medallions. Today, Katia Designs’ necklaces are a U.S.-certified, patented invention that allow customers to customize their look and wear the pieces in different ways.
Cync Dynamic Effects Light Strips from GE Lighting (https://www.bestbuy.
Here’s a great way to set the mood. GE Lighting, a Savant company, continues to expand its smart-home ecosystem: Cync. Featuring millions of customizable options, its new line of Dynamic Effects Light Strips can brighten and elevate any outdoor or indoor space. From bold light shows to music syncing capabilities, the product’s flexible, durable tubing allows users to easily create dramatic shapes with the strips’ sleek and neon-light appearance. The outdoor version of these light strips are fully wet-rated to withstand harsh conditions, making them ideal for outdoor seasonal décor without the fear of damage or loss of power. They are also thoughtfully designed to keep their vibrant bright light over time. The strip’s frosted finish reduces pixelation and enhances a haze effect. Cync Dynamic Effects Light Strips offer 16 million vibrant colors and mix color segments to truly personalize your light show experience, which can be controlled using the Cync app—powered by Savant. Smart home friendly, the lights can seamlessly pair to Google Home or Alexa for hands-free voice control. You can even control light settings, set schedules and choose presets wherever you are in the Cync app. Plus, its on-device music syncing helps set the mood and create an immersive experience whether entertaining guests or jamming out alone to your favorite playlist. Lights have never sounded so good!
Susan’s Own Full Spectrum CBD Bath Bombs (https://susansown.com/)
Draw a bath and slip into rejuvenating relaxation with Susan’s Own CBD’s Full Spectrum CBD Bath Bombs. These beautifully scented bombs will dissolve stresses and strains of the day with 100 milligrams of fast-absorbing, full-spectrum CBD. They boast lush, floral scents to create a wonderful aromatherapy experience and are flecked with biodegradable glitter and real rose and lavender flakes. Choose lavender for a soothing and calming experience or rose for an uplifting, energizing bath. The Colorado-based lifestyle company strives to deliver healthy, natural treatment alternatives that provide relief, relaxation, focus and wellness without the potential negative side effects of modern pharmaceuticals. Not sure if CBD is for you? According to Susan’s Own CBD, the daily use of the hemp plant byproduct is shown to provide wellness improvements in many areas, including physical, emotional, intellectual and spiritual aspects of life. The brand’s full-spectrum products are the least processed and filtered CBD options in Susan’s Own CBD’s inventory, which include the fullest possible profile of the hemp plant’s natural terpenes, flavonoids and cannabinoids. But, for those concerned about the presence of THC, full-spectrum hemp CBD contains no more than 0.3 percent, which reportedly isn’t enough to cause any psychoactive effects.
Sharper Image’s SpaStudio Towel Warmer (https://www.bedbathandbeyond.
Take the chill out of winter mornings and nights with Sharper Image’s SpaStudio Towel Warmer. This nifty electronic device provides users with the luxury of a warm towel, and spa-fresh feel, after every bath or shower—all in the comfort of one’s home. The warmer’s freestanding design provides a convenient, user-friendly experience that only requires the push of a button to generate the perfect level of heat in just 20 minutes. Light and compact, the plug-and-heat device also successfully warms bath sheets, blankets, socks, robes and other clothing items, while also accommodating up to three towels, two bath sheets and one robe in a single use. Watch the gadget’s light change colors to indicate the current temperature, and feel safe with its automatic shutoff function that auto-powers down after 45 minutes. To truly create a relaxing environment in your space, the SpaStudio Towel Warmer can also notably emit your favorite essential oil from its built-in diffuser to create a soothing aroma while your home essentials get nice and toasty. Part of the SharperImage.com Spa collection, this is part of their product line encouraging customers to say goodbye to stress with innovative ways to relax, refresh and rejuvenate the body and mind.
Loungewear from Hello Mello (https://hellomello.com/)
What better way to show your sweetheart your love and warmth than by gifting them buttery soft loungewear from Hello Mello? Making life comfier since 2018, the company has continued its mission to create trendy, comfy lounge pants that are fun to wear and easy to pack. The well-loved collection has become so much more than just lounge pants—expanding to now include pants, shorts, joggers, cardis, sweaters, hoodies, tees, robes and more. Their signature soft blends and lightweight knits are so versatile, you can wear them everywhere, from bed to the casual chic office. All of its signature pieces come in trending prints, colors and graphics that are not only super cozy, but provide a flattering fit with the right amount of stretch. Similar to what wearing a cloud would feel like, indulge in ultimate comfort with Hello Mello’s ultra-soft CuddleBlend collection, or relax in style wearing its cute Best Day Ever sets. Plus, all Hello Mello apparel comes inside a matching drawstring pouch that makes packing for travel, the gym or the workplace super compact. You can also repurpose the complementary pouch to transport sunglasses, jewelry, headphones, makeup or other small essentials. Just add a bow and it is gift ready!
Aventon Aventure eBike (https://www.aventon.com)
For the city commuter or the outdoorsy adventurer in your life, give them the wheels to carry them wherever they want to go with the Aventure eBike from Aventon—a top gift pick of this season! As Aventon’s newest electric bike, the Aventure is a full-sized, fat tire eBike with cutting-edge technology that is revolutionizing e-mobility. This model is equipped with a color display screen that syncs up with a smartphone app to give the rider the ultimate cycling experience. Each rider can use the app to turn the eBike’s lights on and off, track mileage and even connect with other Aventon enthusiasts. The app also includes a fan-favorite feature detailing the number of trees saved when you travel with electric power! With a front suspension fork, 4-inch fat tires, and exceptional handling you can be sure of the most comfortable ride across whichever terrain your spirit chooses. In fact, no terrain is too rugged for the Aventure, and a suspension fork with a bump absorbing 80mm of travel means that you’ll conquer all with best in class comfort. With a 28 mile-per-hour top speed, you’ll also travel at a brisk pace! Built-in fenders and integrated front and rear lights ensure that wherever you go you’ll be both seen by others and protected from the terrain beneath you. Get where you want to go with included throttle-on-demand and pedal assist functions. The throttle is there for when you need it, or when you just want to enjoy the scenery, whilst the five levels of pedal assist allow you to manage your energy expenditure so you can always make it to the top of that incline. Speaking of energy, you’ll get about 45 miles as the average range on a fully-charged battery. Let these killer wheels carry your loved one off on an adventure today!
Vitruvian’s Trainer+ Adaptive Smart Home Gym (www.vitruvianform.com)
Those sweet on fitness will adore Vitruvian’s Trainer+—an intelligent, connected fitness machine that learns and adapts to your body. It is neatly compact as a slim-line, sleek, portable platform that comes with two handles and other attachments, while not requiring dedicated space or wall-mounting. Just open the box and plug it in! The machine is versatile enough to train anyone from ballet dancers to heavyweight fighters, wherever they are. It can replace the entire weight room of a gym by generating up to 440lbs/200kg of force. Packed into a portable, slim platform, it is used by pro sports teams, in homes, gyms, hotels, yachts and even in the air or space (NASA has two). High frequency algorithms adaptively modify the force to match the user’s ability both in the moment and over time, enabling them to train more efficiently and safely. It adds weight when you are strong and spots you when you need it. The device is controlled by the user-friendly Vitruvian Software (iOS, Android), which stores the user’s personal profile and training data. The app allows the user to program their own workouts or be coached by their favorite trainers, record every metric and share workouts with friends. TV integration and classes provide an immersive, engaging and responsive audio-visual workout, with real-time data feedback and tracking to keep users motivated and engaged in either a home or gym/studio setting. It is the smart way to get strong!
WALK-i-TASK Height Adjustable Desk (https://www.walkitask.com/)
If you want to inspire to reach the doctor-recommended 10,000 steps each day, give the WALK-i-TASK height adjustable desk a go. It allows you to do the things you would typically do seated—but while on the move on your home treadmill. The WALK-i-TASK founders became infatuated with the idea of exercising while simultaneously accomplishing the tasks one normally would from a chair. They believed sitting too much was beginning to take its toll on peoples’ physical and mental health. Market research showed there were no realistic options available for the average consumer, identifying pricey treadmills with permanently attached desks, or photos of do-it-yourself projects that people were attempting to create on their own. Their next thought: What if we could create a solution that is both height adjustable and affordable? And that’s what they have accomplished with WALK-i-TASK. This portable desk is height adjustable to ensure users of all verticalities are comfortable, without forcing them to hunch over or cause neck and back pain. It’s also easy to attach and detach from a treadmill, so you can quickly transition from walking to running in minutes. The WALK-i-TASK is compatible with several different treadmill brands and models, including NordicTrack, Sole and ProForm. The desk is made from aluminum, giving you a large, durable workspace for your favorite device. Kickstart your health goals with this handy resource allowing you to prioritize your health without sacrificing productivity.
The Melbourne Sport Bag from Doubletake (https://www.
For racquet sport-lovers who love to enjoy fun in the outdoors, there’s no need to decide between a tennis backpack or a tote. The Melbourne Sport Bag by Doubletake has got you covered for both. Featuring functionality that only players could optimize, this perfectly balanced bag boasts a modern, clean aesthetic in its design and plenty of space for gear. In 2016—after three years of cutting and taping together prototypes of the ideal racquet bag—Doubletake co-founders created their dream product with pockets in all the right places. The mid-size tennis and pickleball bag is available in numerous colors and converts from a tote to a backpack in a breeze. If you carry an average amount of gear, it can easily stash two ball cans, two racquets and the rest of your equipment in style. It includes a plush, easy-to-reach phone pocket; protective, fuzzy sunglasses pocket; and a stink-proof wet-dry compartment. Plus, the Melbourne zips open in large capacity so you can see down to the bottom—helping avoid the common “big black hole” issue. It’s also made from fade-free, lightweight materials and features a no-tip design. The Melbourne measures 14.5-inches wide, 7.25-inches deep, 15-inches tall and has a 20-liter capacity. For those concerned about keeping their bag clean while out on the court, Doubletake put its bag to the test by marking it with a Sharpie and pouring wine on its exterior. The result? Stains came out by using simple kitchen cleaners.
Travel Pack by NOMATIC (https://www.nomatic.com/)
Functionality meets sleekness with NOMATIC’s Travel Pack backpack. Rife with features, its TSA-ready flaps help alleviate juggling bins at security, while secret pockets hide valuables. A patent-pending strap system enables a quick transition from backpack to briefcase in seconds, this innovative pack includes all the elements you could want in one carry on bag without sacrificing its overall look and versatility. The slim, durable and water-resistant backpack was designed to accommodate short trips—expanding from 20 to 30 liters capacity when you need to pack more for that longer weekend getaway. Other highlights of the bag include a full-perimeter zipper, magnetic water bottle pockets, laptop sleeve and other tech organization, sunglasses case, retractable key leash and RFID-safe storage. Overall, it’ll upgrade your travel or excursion experience, making getting from point A to point B that much easier. Whether you want to keep it simple with the item’s minimalist design or customize it to your style, NOMATIC’s Travel Pack gives you or your loved ones confidence for life on the move. The company is committed to helping its customers elevate moments, and NOMATIC’s Travel Pack takes this mission to the next level with the multipurpose bag’s adaptability and design.
Mitchell Acoustics’ uStream Go True Wireless Stereo Bluetooth Speakers (https://www.amazon.com/)
Speaking of getting out and about, Mitchell Acoustics recently introduced its uStream Go True Wireless Stereo Bluetooth Speakers as a portable, rechargeable music system that allows audiophiles to play their favorite tunes anywhere they go. Featuring two aluminum alloy, hand-sized speakers, these identical amplifiers connect with one another to deploy the latest in True Wireless Bluetooth technology. Simply charge the device using USB-C power on each speaker and within a few seconds they will pair—ready for any Bluetooth playback source to be connected. The uStream Go True Wireless Bluetooth Speakers also feature Mitchell Acoustics’ proprietary speaker driver with metal alloy diaphragm and bass-reflex sub. Plus, the all-metal cabinet construction makes for a solid, luxurious feel that enhances the bass response. For users on-the-go, the compact device’s built-in, lithium-ion battery allows 30-plus hours of continuous play wherever and whenever you want to enjoy great stereo sound with ease. The best part? There’s no annoying wires, cables or cords and no added equipment like subwoofers needed for this simple set-up speaker, which packs a powerful sound. It comes finished in gun-metal grey for a chic, sleek look suited for any décor.
Creative Pebble Pro Portable Speakers (https://us.creative.com/)
Another great sound system to elevate your Valentine’s work or gaming setup with the Creative Pebble Pro—the latest audio addition to the Pebble digital entertainment product family. Now with customizable RGB lighting, this high-quality, 2.0 speaker system lets you pick from a selection of three lighting effects via a simple plug-and-play setup. On the audio front, it’s a step up from all of its predecessors. With an overhaul in driver design and an upgrade from analog to a pair of integrated digital input amps, you can expect rich and powerful audio right at your desktop. The device’s minimalist and compact design fits perfectly in any setting, no matter the aesthetic. Plus, the speakers’ spherical shape and 45-degree elevated angle drives direct audio straight to your ears for an immersive listening experience. It can also fire acoustics up to 10 watts RMS or peak power of up 20 watts when connected to a USB. The Creative Pebble Pro’s Clear Dialog and BassFlex technologies ensure easily comprehensible spoken dialogs for movie buffs to enjoy, even while the impactful bass performance pumps away with heightened immersion. Whether it’s to play music out loud or to privately join a call, the speakers offer both wired and wireless connectivity through Bluetooth 5.3, as well as microphone and headset ports.
Caviar Collagen Capsules by HECH Nutrition (https://usa.hech.com/)
Here’s a great way beauty devotees can put their best face forward in 2023. HECH Nutrition’s Caviar Collagen Capsules provide the body with the building blocks and active nutrients needed to complement topical skin care methods on a cellular and sustainable level—resulting in stronger and healthier skin, hair and nails. They can make you look and feel your best from inside, out. In fact, its Caviar Collagen Capsules reportedly have the highest collagen density on the market, and also include vitamins A, C, D and E that are enriched for maximum benefit and absorption. These supplements are made with marine collagen and provide long-term beauty support to help nourish, hydrate and rejuvenate your skin and improve its overall health. Each package of the Caviar Collagen Capsules contains 120 capsules (30 servings), with HECH’s recommendation of four capsules per day that should be taken with plenty of water. The third-generation, family-owned nutrient company is a pioneer in the functional collagen and nutricosmetics industry and prioritizes using only the highest quality ingredients to develop its line of luxury collagen supplements. Guided by leading scientists, nature’s efficacy and family company values, HECH believes that a supporting, nutrient-based internal beauty routine is key to achieving and maintaining a flawless and radiant complexion.
FamilyTreeDNA’s Family Finder Test Kit (https://www.familytreedna.
Unlock your legacy with the Family Finder Test Kit from FamilyTreeDNA. Utilizing the world’s most comprehensive DNA matching database for autosomal DNA, Y-DNA and mtDNA, this at-home kit makes it easy to jumpstart your journey to learning more about your heritage with a simple swab of the cheek. FamilyTreeDNA pioneered the field of genetic genealogy in 2000—helping more than two million people discover their ethnic origins and locate relatives dating back five generations with 99.9 percent accuracy in just six weeks’ time. After mailing in and having the sample processed, customers will receive a percentage breakdown of their origins, view where each DNA segment comes from, learn if they have a connection to ancient European groups and compare matching segments of DNA (blocks) with genetic matches. But with all the genealogy tests on the market, why choose FamilyTreeDNA? While most testing companies send your DNA to third-party labs, the company processes and stores all samples in its on-site, state-of-the-art laboratory. Its expert team of industry leaders, as well as its CLIA-certified and CAP-accredited facility, ensure that FamilyTreeDNA meets the highest standards, delivers accurate results and is committed to not selling your DNA information to third parties. Connect with relatives from across the globe or help someone begin their path to self-discovery with the gift that lasts a lifetime.
‘The City Loo’ Dog Potty (https://thecityloo.com/)
Here’s a great gift idea for pet owning décor devotees. And just because they are a “proud pooch owner” doesn’t mean they’ll have to compromise on convenience and personal style to care for their canine. This is thanks to The City Loo Dog Potty, which is a stylish and smart indoor and outdoor bathroom solution that supports owners—and their fur babies—who live and play in condos, apartments, high-rises, yachts or boats. This chic, hassle-free product allows your pooch to use The City Loo Potty on their schedule, whether it’s with a pad, potty grass or whatever materials your pet prefers to relieve itself. Perfect for dogs 15 pounds or under, the City Loo is chic and modern in appearance—ensuring your pup’s indoor potty area is discreet, sanitary and safe for both you and your pet. Its custom-crafted design is made from medium-density fiberboard with clear acrylic walls, stainless steel hinges, an interchangeable dog door entrance. It is available in black and white colorways. Overall, The City Loo Potty offers ease and accessibility for your best friend, while preserving the overall aesthetic of your surroundings for a fashionable, functional look and feel.
By Merilee Kern, MBA
Merilee Kern, MBA is an internationally-regarded brand strategist and analyst who reports on cultural shifts and trends as well as noteworthy industry change makers, movers, shakers and innovators across all categories, both B2C and B2B. This includes field experts and thought leaders, brands, products, services, destinations and events. Merilee is Founder, Executive Editor and Producer of “The Luxe List” as well as Host of the “Savvy Living” lifestyle TV show that airs in New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Miami, Atlanta and other major markets on CBS, FOX and other top networks; as well as the “Savvy Ventures” business TV show that airs nationally on FOX Business TV and Bloomberg TV. As a prolific lifestyle, travel, dining and leisure industry voice of authority and tastemaker, Merilee keeps her finger on the pulse of the marketplace in search of new and innovative must-haves and exemplary experiences at all price points, from the affordable to the extreme. Her work reaches multi-millions worldwide via broadcast TV (her own shows and copious others on which she appears) as well as a myriad of print and online publications.
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***Some or all of the accommodations(s), experience(s), item(s) and/or service(s) detailed above may have been provided at no cost or sponsored to accommodate if this is review editorial, but all opinions expressed are entirely those of Merilee Kern and have not been influenced in any way.***
