Milk chocolate. Silk lingerie. Valentine’s Day can be a tricky for vegans, but it definitely doesn’t have to be! To save you a little time, I’ve rounded up a few vegan-friendly V-Day gifts that your partner/spouse/best friend will really appreciate. I think you’ll end up with something they’ll love, no matter what their taste!
Editor’s note: this post contains affiliate links, which isn’t nearly as skeezy as it sounds (they’re marked with an asterisk). Here’s why we use them and how they work.
Am I shamelessly promoting our blog post about their Sea Clay Scrub by adding Naked & Co. to this list? Kind of. But Hannah really, really liked it, so I feel like it’s justified. Who doesn’t love luxurious bath stuff, especially when it smells like brownie batter?
You can find Naked & Co. products on their website.
Gunas New York* is America’s first 100% vegan handbag brand, founded way back in olden days of 2009. I’ve been drooling over Gunas bags for years, so I was excited to discover that they had an affiliate program (I would have put them in this list either way without doubt, but they let me join, so hooray!). One of the best things about them is that they make styles for everyone, from girly to artsy to minimalist.
They don’t have a ton for men, but what vegan guy wouldn’t want a cruelty-free wallet with a cool blue detail? Better yet, the wallets are currently on sale for $25* (regularly $75).
If you *cough* happen to find a little something for yourself as well as for your sweetheart, don’t worry—breaking $150 can help you snag free shipping*.
Rala is always my destination of choice for great gifts, and they definitely don’t disappoint for Valentine’s Day. It’s a particularly good place to shop if the object of your affection isn’t particularly lovey-dovey, because they have lots of clever, fun, and disarmingly sweet gifts and hand-printed cards. Here are 3 of my favorites, from their Instagram account:
They do sell some things online, but the in-store selection is much wider and includes some beautiful minimalist jewelry, art prints, “You got this” socks (!), Team Cat/Team Dog pins for the mixed household, and the widest selection of Dolly Parton stuff in town. Rala is located at 323 Union Ave. until Feb. 26, then they reopen at 112 W. Jackson Ave. on March 3rd.
Ooooh, and don’t forget to grab one of the Hu Kitchen vegan chocolate bars with cashew butter. Mmmmmmm. Speaking of which…
Chocolate is a non-brainer at Valentine’s Day, and luckily, there are lots of options. If sifting through the chocolate bars at Kroger or Whole Foods doesn’t really appeal to you, here are a few other options that you can pick up easily online.
It’s East Tennessee, so you can basically drop a plant on the ground and it’ll grow (unless it’s lavender, and then you’re screwed). So why not lean in to it? Stanley’s Greenhouse is horticultural heaven, and the very knowledgeable staff will help you find a plant that fits your sweetheart’s home, taste, and ability to care for it. It’s much more personal than a bouquet, and much more likely to keep you on their mind when it’s blooming every spring.
Listen, I’m not here to suggest that you buy body harnesses for each other or anything (I mean, hey—go for it). But giving someone something that they feel nice in is pretty fabulous. The key is focusing on what makes them feel nice. Etsy is a great place to look for handmade lingerie that isn’t complicated and torturous, along with some that is.
On the sultry end of the spectrum, we have Sandmaiden Sleepwear*, which makes beautiful sheer pieces that still look comfortable. If sheer is a little too much, I highly suggest the organic cotton line Luva Huva*. I have one of their nightie sets like the one in the picture and it is so soft.
Yesah in the Old City carries a lot of great gifts for dudes (and women, too—I hardcore want the walnut sunglasses). The wooden watches are stylish, and one of the Fulton & Roark Solid Colognes paired with some other men’s grooming products would make a very cool gift. You can get everything online, or head down to 129 W. Jackson Ave.
Well, there you go! I hope that you find the perfect vegan-friendly Valentine’s Day gift for your beloved or BFF. Between our amazing local resources and great online options, you’re sure to end up with something perfect.
