Valentine’s Day has always been one of my favorite holidays! Whether for romance or friendship, it’s a great excuse to shower your loved ones with creative gifts and lasting memories. No time like the present to shop local, as with every $100 dollars spent locally, $68 will stay in the community!*
Happy Shopping! And please keep your money where your heart is.
Modern Optics
Not your ordinary optical shop, you’ll find some great gift ideas at Modern Optics in St. Pete Beach. I’ve actually gifted wooden watches from his shop twice in the last 10 years because it’s been such a great hit! Unique, quality craftsmanship and definitely a conversation starter- these Mistura wooden watches are a fantastic gift for Valentine’s Day. Starting at $125.
Modern Optics- 415 Corey Ave. St. Pete Beach 727-360-2511 www.modernopticsfla.com
Billy’s Stone Crab in Tierra Verde
Billy’s is a great one stop shop for a nice night out for the romantic holiday. Arrive for dinner and sunset, and then you’ll find live music and dancing until late. No need to go anywhere else for a night out! Right now they have 50c fresh shucked oysters during the week. What is it they say about raw oysters?
Billy’s Stone Crab in Tierra Verde- 1 Collany Rd. Tierra Verde 33715 727-866-2115 www.billysstonecrab.com
The TI Travel Club
Seeking a once in a lifetime experience one may think of planning an extravagant trip overseas. The co-owner of The Pearl Restaurant in Treasure Island, Catherine Chiadmi, is also an expert when it comes to Moroccan travel and offers all inclusive packages starting at $3000 for a ten day getaway. If that’s not what you’re looking for she can put something together for you just about anywhere.
The TI Travel Club- 727-251-9801 www.thetitravelclub.com
Postcard Inn
This retro cool hotel located in St. Pete Beach has unveiled a terrific romantic getaway for two this Valentine’s Day. The one package is $259 is available on Valentines Day only, so book early! You’ll have a bottle of champagne and a rose waiting for you in your spacious room. With this package they are offering a 4 course meal right on the beach. Before checking out the next morning you’ll receive an item of your choice from their new coffee shop, PS Grind, opening soon. I hear they will have infused donuts.
Postcard Inn- 6300 Gulf Blvd St. Pete Beach 33706 800-237-8918 www.postcardinn.com
Bamboozle and Things Etc.
I’m guilty of wanting just about everything in these two shops, so when walking in I’m inspired to create a gift basket of assorted goodies. A collection of handmade jewelry, vintage beach décor, boutique clothing and more, you will more than likely want to create a basket of goodness yourself. Wine Bag $12- Soy Candle $35 Fl Necklace w/heart- $33 Sterling silver Mantra Bangles $88 each.
Bamboozle- 808 Pass-A-Grille Way St. Pete Beach 727-498-8730
Things Etc in Johns Pass has many different great gift choices in their shop. One of the most popular lines is marahlago jewelry, as it’s stone is a beautiful and rare lamimar. Larimar is a piercing blue/teal shaded stone and is created in one place on this earth. The stone is mined in only one square kilometer of the southwest Dominican Republic. Marahlago is a great line as they have great designs and are very fashion forward. Prices start at around $45.
Things Etc-13005 Village Blvd. Madeira Beach 33708 727-393-2255
Owen Sweet Design
Owen Sweet Design in St. Pete Beach is a long time favorite both locally and internationally. A true artist himself, his shop has a wide selection of pieces he’s designed and created along with great jewelry that make great Valentine’s Day gifts. One of his newest creations has quickly become a local favorite- trendy 14 kt yellow gold bonefish earrings! Handmade at Owen Sweet Design. Price- $589
Owen Sweet Design- 344 Corey Ave. St Pete Beach 33706 727-392-6936 www.ohsosweet.com
Lemon Tree Spa
A couple’s massage is a fabulous way to celebrate the day of love. Lemon Tree Spa is a locally owned business with two locations, one in Tierra Verde and one in St. Pete Beach. They have a slew of other services available too. Special for Valentine’s Day, the “Couples Escape” priced at $295, you and your loved one will be treated to champagne and chocolates, followed by a full body exfoliation, moisturizing back masque and a 60 minute couple’s massage. Yes. Please. (stock image they provided. But I’m sure you can find something better)
St. Pete Beach Location- 7395 Gulf Blvd. 727-363-0772
Tierra Verde Location- 1110 Pinellas Bayway S. 727-329-8977 www.lemontreespa.com
Sign of the Dolphin
Located in Madeira Beach for almost 20 years and now located in Seminole, FL, Sign of the Dolphin is a locally owned shop that is with a huge selection of gift ideas. Flamingo love? Jewelry of all kinds? Something sweet for your sweet? It’s like a department store in that you’ll find everything you need in one place, except the items you find will be unique, handcrafted, and not found everywhere else.
Sign of the Dolphin- 12999 Park Blvd. Seminole 33776 727-393-1400 www.signofthedolphin.com
Florida Jean Company
If you’re headed inland, Florida Jean Company located in theSundial has something for everyone. You’ll find handmade rustic signs and unique “St. Pete Gifts”. This year a nice stackable bracelet is the winner for me. Erimish Stackable bracelets $8 each or 5 for $35.
Florida Jean Co- 169 2nd Ave N. St. Petersburg, 33701 727-202-6922
Article by Sarah Laracuente
*Source- Civic Economics – Andersonville Study of Retail Economics www.independentwestand.org