THE LOCAL ARTISAN GUIDE'S GALENTINE & VALENTINE DAY GIFT SUGGESTION - 2025

For the first time The Local Artisan Guide is posting a gift giving guide for both Valentines and Galentines Day (you know that day ladies, that you celebrate with your female besties the day before Valentines Day). We have gifts for both her AND him in all categories and price ranges. The gifts are artisanal and come from small brands that really think about the unique twists that make a conventional Valentines Day gift more special and personal to you or the one you love. So click onto the captions for the store link as all gifts can also be sent via their online store.

DESIDERI DESIGNS - CHAIN LINK HEART NECKLACE

Be bold this Valentines Day with your jewelry choices and show your special someone how much you care with an oversized Austrian crystal clear heart that has magical rainbow prisms when exposed to different lights. Austrian crystals are synonymous with the highest quality glass crystals today. The necklace is sterling silver and hangs slightly longer than a choker. Desideri Designs was founded by New York based Roman designer Claudia Desideri who has a long history working with Austrian crystals in her jewelry collection that is handcrafted and made in New York.

THE CALM JOY CANDLE CO. - SELF LOVE VALENTINES GIFT SET

The Calm Candle Co., is a small artisanal candle brand founded by Simone Smith, a licensed mental health therapist who has witnessed the power of self-care and with that came her creation of The Calm Candle Co. For Valentines Day, The Calm Candle Co. is collaborating with Cynplicity soap brand to offer a handmade candle and soap set. The candle is a luxurious rose bud and vanilla scented candle made with coconut wax (much healthier to burn) and the soap is a gentle rose and tussah silk soap. Together this is a great gift for encouraging calmness and self-care for those you love.

STRAND BOOK STORE - THE POETRY OF EDGAR ALLAN POE

When looking for an affordable Valentines Day gift for the one you love, you can’t go wrong with romantic poetry and for that we are recommending “The Poetry of Edgar Allan Poe,” who writes romantic poetry besides his well known thriller verses. This book is second hand from second hand bookstore Strand Books (they also sell new editions) and in very good condition. Once you gift the book you can read romantic verses and truly impress your loved one with their imaginative (and affordable) Valentines Day gift. A recycled book is a very sustainable way of celebrating Valentines Day.

PATENT OF HEART - HEART OR PASSPORT?, PASSPORT HOLDER

If you are planning to travel abroad this Valentines or are planning a trip in the future with your loved one, the “Heart or Passport, Which to Follow” passport from Patent of Heart is a great way to start the trip. This beautiful wine colored passport holder can also hold besides your passport a folded boarding pass,  cards, cash, and receipts. The premium leather construction ensures longevity and it makes for a great unisex gift too. The dimensions are: 5.5"H x 4.2"W x 0.5"D and are handmade in Turkey. Proceeds from sales go to help educate young girls and women in Turkey so this is a gift with a win/win for all.

MIZENSIR PARFUMS - LEGEND LEATHER EAU DE PARFUM

Although perfume can be considered a traditional Valentines Day gift, this parfum from Mizensir, the small Swiss parfum brand created by master perfumer Alberto Morillas in Geneva, Switzerland is guaranteed to be a much desired scent for both men and women. “Legend Leather” was inspired by a drive in a dream car in Madrid, Spain. Its olfactory pyramid features top notes of guaiac wood and aldehydes, a heart of raspberry and saffron-infused iris, and a base of immortelle and styrax, creating a powerful yet refined composition. We love recommending scents that bring back a beautiful memory and “Legend Leather” is the perfect scent with its mixture of leather from a car and the flowery scents you experience along the way.

VENCHI CHOCOLATE - ROSE, RASPBERRY & ALMOND BRUTTO & BUONO

Chocolates are a no-brainer gift for Valentines Day for both our Valentines and Galentines loved ones. We always encourage small batch chocolates and chocolates with a special and unique twist. With that in mind we love Venchi’s “Rose, Raspberry & Almond Brutto & Buono”. So imagine the Venchi high quality, delicious chocolate with crunchy almonds and raspberry nibs scattered into a rose-flavored white chocolate heart. It not only is delicious, it looks unlike any box of chocolate you have ever received with a rose colored heart to which has been combined with care and passion, using traditional methods, to create a work of art to be enjoyed. If you ever wanted to give away a piece of your heart, this is the chocolate made to win over loved ones.

EATALY - TOMATOES TAGLIOLINI PASTA

I know both men and women are frantically searching for a Valentines Day dinner at a restaurant they hope will be romantic enough for their loved one yet not drain their wallet. We say, “Why not make a romantic meal at home?” A meal cooked for a loved one is one of the most caring, nurturing and creative gifts you can give someone. It requires time, thought and great care to make a meal and the appreciation you will received is a gift back to you. We found this tomato based pasta at Eataly, tagliolini are long, thin strands of egg pasta from the northern region of Piemonte. Enriched with savory tomatoes, this twist on the classic tagliolini is perfect to pair with a light, buttery sauce. Sure to make for a memorable, hands on and affordable Valentines Day Dinner in your exclusive restaurant for two (or great for a Galentines Day get together).

JULIA TESTA - JEWEL TONES DESIGNER’S CHOICE FLOWERS

Flowers are always an amazing Valentines Day gift. That is if you have a remarkable bouquet of flowers delivered to your loved ones and with that we recommend going to your local florist who can create a bouquet that you know your loved one will adore. That is why we suggested Julia Testa, a well renowned florist based in Soho, NYC who offers amazing affordable bouquet for Valentines Day. We fell in love with the “Jeweled Toned Designer’s Choice” where you could have tones of reds, pinks, purples, or whites. The arrangement will have a romantic feel and arrangements are priced from $125 to $650.

BOWN OF LONDON - VELVET LOAFER/SLIPPER SHOE, WINE & CHEESE

If you think your man is not open to sexy underwear for Valentines Day, may we recommend this elegant set of velvet slippers with wine and cheese motif? Bown of London, a small luxury British nightwear brand has a playful set of velvet slippers. The slippers are the finest quality luxury velvet fabric in a rich burgundy hue and are the epitome of softness, sheen, and unmatched elegance. The shoes feature a breathable 100% leather lining which will not retain odor in the same manner of a fabric / satin lined shoe. Ideal for indoor home use (romantic night in) or at social events. Includes a breathable leather sole with non slip rubber heel. Also available in different colors, sizes 6 to 15.5 and different more playful motifs. It’s a gift they will treasure forever.

ONLY HEARTS - WHISPER COUCOU UNDERWIRE BRA & PANTIES

Valentines Day lingerie is one of the most sexiest gifts you can give your loved one as it screams, “I WANT YOU NOW!” Small lingerie brand, Only Hearts offer the “Whisper Coucou Underwire Bra”, a sheer, sexy piece of luxury lingerie features peek-a-boo cups for an alluring sensuality, while the underwire offers hold and support. Made from fine Italian netting, this bra feels light and airy to the touch. What a wonderful souvenir of a passion night to live with.

That is our Valentines and Galentines Day gift guide and like our past posts, we focus on highlighting small, local artisanal brands as know as with all our gift guides, the receiver wants a gift that is thoughtful and unique. No cookie cutter gift recommendations here! So whether you are celebrating Galentines Day with a bunch of friends, having a heart to heart on Valentines Day or giving yourself a much needed gift of love, we wish you a Happy Valentines Day and hope our suggestions have made you think about that one love language we all have, GIFTS!.

By Natalie Rivera

THE LOCAL ARTISAN GUIDE'S HOLIDAY GIFTS FOR HIM

It’s our third holiday gift guide and this post is about special, unique artisanal gifts for HIM. There are so many considerate, distinctive and unique gifts to give that he will love. He will be flattered that you sought out such noteworthy gifts that not only will he cherish but will help out small local brands. We picked ten different gift suggestions in all categories and price ranges. Click onto the captions for the link to the online store (all suggestions also have an online store with shipping).

JOHN ROBSHAW - RALLI JACKET

Textile designer John Robshaw has a shop in Falls Village, CT that has a curated selection of John’s products plus his finds from his world travels. John had some extra Ralli blankets from India and had men’s jackets made of them with some beautiful embroidery on top. They are fun, colorful and unique. If you have an over the top man in your life who loves to be the life of the party, may we recommend the Ralli Jacket. Please email theshop@johnrobshaw.com or call 917-781-0130 to inquire about the jackets.

MICHAEL ANDREWS - LUCKY YOU CUFFLINKS

Ultra exclusive men’s atelier Michael Andrews not only offers bespoke suits and men’s accessories they also have great curated finds. We love the “Lucky You” silver cufflinks. The crossed fingers are a great gift to give good luck to any man on an important day. The silver makes it extra elegant. It’s a great accessory and a thoughtful gift for the special man in your life.

HIVE & COLONY - SARTOR EAU DE PARFUM

Hive & Colony, a men’s bespoke brand has a unique collection of men’s accessories. We selected a scent that was made for Hive & Colony and is simply sumptuous. It is guaranteed to be admired by the wearer and anyone in their vicinity. Made in Italy the scent connotes: “Experience the essence of craftsmanship with a captivating blend of spiced sandalwood, iris, and violet. Indulge in the luxurious heart of pure elegance, enhanced by rich notes of precious woods and musk for a seductive, powerful allure”.

RIZZOLI BOOKSTORE - THE COCKTAIL CABINET: TEQUILA: THE ESSENTIAL DRINKS EVERY TEQUILA & MEZCAL LOVER SHOULD KNOW

We love recommending books as gifts, especially when they come from independent bookstores or art book stores. Here not only are we recommending a book from Rizzoli with a subject that is near and dear to many, the joy of tequila and mezcal. After learning more about mezcal in Mexico earlier this year we fell in love with this book and its expertise on the subject. “The Cocktail Cabinet: Tequila distills the best of the spirits with 50 cards that feature recipes for any mood, whether you'd like to get smoky with a Oaxaca old fashioned or enjoy a lazy afternoon with a punchy siesta.”

With mid-century-inspired illustrations, easy-to-follow recipes, and guides to garnishes, glassware, ice, and syrups, this deck is the ideal pick for budding mixologists and bartending experts. So if you know a man that is starting a bar area in a corner of his home or has transformed his man’s cave into a sleek 20’s inspired speakeasy bar, this is the perfect gift.

DUNCAN QUINN - SAILING BAG

Duncan Quinn is a men’s bespoke boutique in Nolita, NYC that has been iconic for offering men bespoke outfits with an international twist. We feel every man needs a special carry on bag to match his adventurous spirit and desire for travel. This Sailing Bag is handmade in “Palma, Majorca by a small artisanal shop that specializes in bespoke fitted luggage for superyacht nooks and crannies. Made from carbon fiber sails used on racing yachts, then cut by hand and painted by hand using the same paint as used for markings on racing sails. Featuring the Duncan Quinn signature Smoking Skull and number print on opposite side (number may vary.) Shoulder strap and red hand carries on both ends. Complies with hand luggage carry-on sizing for once you get back into the air”.

MEERIN - SNUFF WAXY KUDU BOOTS

Meermin is a family owned & operated business based in the beautiful island of Mallorca in Spain. The brand is dedicated to produce & sell well made, quality Goodyear Welted shoes at a radical affordable price point. One of their newest styles is Snuff Waxy Kudu Boot. This boots is so special and well made that any fashion conscious man who still values comfort would love to own. The copy is long but does describe how special and well made this boot is. “The Waxy Kudu leather is a special one—waxed antelope leather from Southern regions of Africa. A striking & very unique leather which features all the natural blemishes, marks and scratches of a wild antelope that lived in the bushes. Blemishes & cuts are part of the interest of this leather and will be used on the production of the uppers. Please note that this leather does not look like smooth French calfskin at all, is a very rugged, mellow & very unique Antelope leather which accepts scars & marks as part of the uniqueness—which make every single pair truly unique. These boots feature our newest NEGON last, specifically designed to enhance the overall fit and comfort. The wider and flatter toe shape allows for ample room, preventing any discomfort or pinching. The supporting back area provides excellent stability and ensures a secure fit for all-day wear. The interior of the boots is where luxury meets functionality. The shaft is fully unlined and the vamp is lined with horsehide leather, offering a smooth and breathable environment for your feet. This natural material provides superior moisture management and enhances the overall comfort. To further enhance the fit and ease of wearing, the boots come with an extended bellows tongue, allowing for easy entry and a snug fit. These boots are Flex Goodyear Welted to ensure durability and flexibility, aside from being fully resoleable when the time comes. The thick veg-tan flat welts, leather insoles and midsoles provide exceptional support and adaptability, making every step comfortable and fatigue-free. Equipped with a convenient double city lug outsole, this boot is built to handle whatever comes your way”.

FALCONERI - ULTRASOFT CASHMERE CABLE-KNIT MOTIF TURTLENECT SWEATER

Italian luxury artisanal fashion brand is world renowned for their spectacular cashmere. Their secret is a magical combination of the finest natural fibers, Italian artisan skills and innovative production systems from the pastures of Mongolia to the special artisan craftsmanship in Italy. This sweater is so lovely, stylish and soft that any man would love to live in it. It comes in other colors besides Dark Green (also available in blue, natural and alabaster beige). Made from 100% cashmere: “A refined cable-knit motif characterizes this turtleneck sweater made of fine Ultrasoft Cashmere. The wrap-around effect and Nordic-inspired design are combined with a regular fit, making the piece ideal for all-day wear”.

MoMA - De Stijl Tumbling Tower

Boys and their toys! Well this isn’t a sports car but this game is a popular fun way to spend an evening and looks great in your home, like a Piet Mondrian sculpture. The MoMA De Stijl Tumbling Tower was designed by Monica Albornoz through MoMA's collaboration with the MFA Products of Design program at the School of Visual Arts. “MoMA Exclusive: This take on the classic game brings the aesthetics of the De Stijl movement—with its bright primary colors and geometric shapes—to life in 3D form. Think of it as an interactive Mondrian painting. To play, build a tower by stacking three side by side blocks in each row, alternating 90 degrees with each layer. Players take turns removing a block from the tower and placing it on top. The composition evolves as each player makes their mark. The last player to successfully remove and stack a block without the tower falling wins the game. The game ends when the tower falls. Made of sustainably harvested rubberwood. For two or more players. Measures 12”h x 3”w x 3”d.”

ORNAMENTS FOR ORPHANS - FELT WOOL GOLF BAG ORNAMENT

We found this sweet gift that is perfect for a host or office colleague that loves golf. Or any of your male friends that love golf. Your favorite golfer will love this golf bag filled with clubs. These ornaments are handmade by artisans in Nepal, Asia using colorful sheep wool. Best thing is that Ornament 4 Orphans is a fair trade, social business. They sell handmade products made by artisans in Kenya, Uganda, Peru and Nepal. All proceeds are invested back into the communities where they work to provide jobs, fight poverty, encourage sustainability, keep vulnerable children with their families and prevent them from becoming orphans. So when you buy this as a gift so many people around the world are winning.

BOY SMELLS - COWBOY KUSH CANDLE

A candle is always a good gift and we love BOY SMELLS candle company from Los Angeles. The company is dedicated to scents that go beyond the gender binary. Cowboy Kush is a spell-binding, masculine scent that would elevate any area of smells of well-worn leather of spiced patchouli with puffs of pot.. “Just like enjoying a joint at the rodeo, this tumbleweed of a scent is a rustic accumulation of soft suede and spiced saffron with puffs of pot leaf and patchouli floating through. Earthy, grounded, it is warm and well-worn like a saddle with notes of tonka bean and patchouli. A best seller and for good reason, enjoy riding off into your own olfactive sunset.”

We tried for the first time hosting an evening with men from all backgrounds to give us their opinions of the gift suggestions we had and these were the gifts that were 100% approved based on their uniqueness, craftsmanship and price points. Plus the added benefit that all the brands are small and specialize in artisanal products. A good feedback we received when presenting our picks were, “I would be so happy to receive these gifts and would appreciate the thought that went into getting me a gift that I would appreciate”. So if that is the feeling you want the man in your life to have we recommend our gift choices or as a suggestion so you can shop locally in your neighborhood for something as special. There is always a small, local artisanal brand near you hoping you will see beyond the Amazons of this world and large scale department stores to relish the specialness of beautifully crafted gift.

By Natalie Rivera