Why not skip the overpriced flowers and get something unique from a local business right here in Baltimore?
Valentine’s Day falls on Tuesday in 2023. The middle of the week isn’t the best time to book a romantic dinner, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get creative when it comes to buying a gift! We’ve put together a list of Baltimore-area businesses that have some of the sweetest Valentine’s Day gifts ever concocted. From baby lamb cuddling to a heart-shaped charcuterie board, your sweetie will be charmed by these local gift ideas. Shop local this Valentine's Day!
Adopt An Animal - Maryland Zoo
Help support the Maryland Zoo while gifting the animal lover in your life a cuddly Valentine’s Day gift. The Maryland Zoo has put together gift packages that allow you to “adopt” some of the most popular residents at the zoo. Packages are $85 and include an animal plush, zoo admission for a future visit, a picture, an adoption certificate, and a Valentine’s Day Card. Some of the animals featured for adoption include flamingos, penguins, giraffes, and lions—oh my!
Valentine’s Day Treat Box - Kupcakes and Co.
You can never go wrong with giving something sweet on Valentine's Day. Local bakery Kupcakes and Co. is cooking up a number of Valentine-themed treats you can buy for your sweetheart. Get a little box of everything with the "Bee" My Valentine box, a variety of freshly baked goodies like chocolate chip truffles, strawberry bark, ganache cake, mini cupcakes, love letter hand pie, and Valentine puppy chow. The box is priced at $45 and must be purchased online.
Charcuterie Board - Boards in a Box
Is your Valentine more into savory foods than sweets? Boards in a Box has the perfect gift! The Baltimore-based company creates cheese board arrangements of any size that feature meats, cheeses, jams, olives, and crackers. Instead of wood, the company uses eco-friendly palm leaf boards that can be reused. Valentine’s Day boards range from $55 to $175 and include milk chocolate-covered strawberries. Orders must be placed 48 hours ahead and picked up at the company’s Baltimore storefront.
Lamb Cuddling - Mary’s Land Farm
Nothing is sweeter than cuddling with a tiny newborn animal. Mary’s Land Farm in Howard County offers a lamb cuddling experience for a limited time in February. The cost is $100 for a party of six and includes interaction with baby lambs for 30 minutes. Cuddling with the animals induces the release of oxytocin, the “love” hormone responsible for relieving stress and calming the spirit. Lamb cuddling is for people of all ages and a great way to capture cute pictures with family and friends. Cuddling sessions must be booked online—but sessions fill up fast! Mary’s Land Farm also offers cow cuddling in the late spring and early summer.
Caramel Chocolates - Velatis
If you’re looking for the traditional candy in a box for Valentine’s Day, try Velatis in Silver Spring. The family-owned candy shop specializes in Italian-style caramels with a sugary, creamy texture like fudge. They also make truffles, toffee, and caramel popcorn. For Valentine’s Day choose from assorted boxes with champagne and raspberry hearts, sea salt turtles, and caramel sampler boxes.
Are there any other local Maryland shops offering fun Valentine's Day gift ideas and/or experiences? Email us!
