gifts they might actually want

19 Valentine’s Day Gifts You Can Buy From ESEA-Owned Businesses

Photo-Illustration: The Strategist; Photos: Retailers

As Valentine’s Day approaches, you might be wondering how best to spoil your loved one this year. While a bouquet and a box of chocolates are (almost) always appreciated, there’s nothing more special than a gift that’s been chosen just for them. And while we have Valentine’s gift guides to suit every budget and every type of partner, here, we’ve compiled a list of Valentine’s gifts available to shop from ESEA-owned businesses. Read on for our suggestions or, if you can’t quite find that perfect gift, make sure to look at our ESEA-owned business directory, which covers 37 businesses (and counting). By the way, as we’re getting close to February 14, we’ve also included the last date that each item can be ordered for guaranteed delivery by Valentine’s Day.

For the valentine with a meticulous fake-tanning routine

They can exfoliate away last week’s pesky patches with a spice-scented handmade soap (crafted by a London-based mother-daughter duo).

Last date to order: 7 February.

For the valentine who’s outgrown Gordon’s

£48

This collaboration between London-based restaurant Bao and the Victory London Distillery is part of a “BAOCYCLED initiative”, which re-uses Bao’s leftover Oolong Tea Leaves.

Last date to order: 8 February.

For the valentine who won’t touch hotel soap

If your loved one isn’t partial to the soap from the Hilton, we’re sure they’ll find this bath-time travel-essentials trio more to their liking.

Last date to order: 8 February.

For the valentine who always cooks (far) too much

The inner lid of this rice steamer doubles as a measuring cup. It can also be reheated in the microwave, while keeping the rice moist.

Last date to order: 8 February.

For the valentine who’s tried everything Beauty Pie has to offer

There’s sure to be some products in this curated Korean Skincare gift box that they’ve yet to sample.

Last date to order: 7 February.

For the valentine who bulk buys Oatly

This selection box of bite-size chocolate cupcakes are 100 percent vegan.

Last date to order: 11 February.

For the valentine who cries when the bouquet dies

These Korean summer-flower delphiniums are preserved in herbarium solution, so they’ll stay in full bloom (forever).

Last date to order: 9 February.

For the valentine who prefers something fresher

A valentine’s bouquet is sure to look handsome in these handcrafted, two-toned glazed vases.

Last date to order: 7 February.

For the valentine who stows their card in their phone case

Give their Monzo card a stylish new home with a handcrafted leather envelope (available in five colours, including slate and cognac).

Last date to order: 6 February.

For the valentine who is in the top 0.001 percent of Harry Styles listeners

Get them their own (grown-up) version of his signature pearls.

Last date to order: 12 February (before noon).

For the valentine who’s just had a stressful move

This minimalist candle could be the finishing touch on their new mantle (and will fill their space with the smell of soothing essential oils).

Last date to order: 10 February.

For the valentine who can never find their keys

They can store their keys — and other trinkets — safely, on this floral resin dish (which can be bought with flecks of gold or silver).

Last date to order: 1 February.

For the valentine whose kettle is never off

In between mugs of tea, they can rest their spoon on this lovely speckled oval dish.

Last date to order: 9 February.

For the valentine who needs a new hobby

Carving their own fork is sure to be a new experience. While a penknife isn’t included, the kit contains a wooden block, sand paper, beeswax, and cloth.

Last date to order: 9 February.

For the valentine whose New Year’s resolution was to walk the London loop

From £19

Help them visualise their goals with this jolly print from East London–based illustrator Jing Zhang.

Last date to order: 10 February.

For the valentine who tuts at your plastic-bag drawer

Give their bag for life endeavours an upgrade with a 100 percent cotton tote from Japan — more specifically the Okayama prefecture, known for their high-quality textiles.

Last date to order: 8 February.

For the valentine who doesn’t tolerate Brutalism slander

This leather and cotton tote is inspired by the unique conservatory roofs of the Barbican Estate. Bags inspired by the Barbican balcony and fountain are also available to shop.

Last date to order: 6 February.

For the valentine who thrives in grilling season

This stainless-steel knife and birchwood cutting-board set has been specifically designed for outdoor cooking.

Last date to order: 8 February.

Native & Co. also offer knife-maintenance oil, so your gift can last for many years to come.

Last date to order: 8 February.

The Strategist UK is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Read about who we are and what we do here. Our editors update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

Valentine’s Day Gifts You Can Buy From ESEA-Owned Businesses