Valentine’s day is known as a day of love not only for couples but for friends and families as well. As much as there is love, there is also the stress of picking out the perfect gift. What should you get your significant other or perhaps your mother in law? Below are a variety of gifts that will be perfect for someone you truly care about. From Alaskan made products to fun ideas, you can definitely check off one more person on your Valentine gift list!
Valentine’s Pop Up
If you want to find something for that special someone, but don’t have much time to run around town trying to find it, head to the Valentine’s Pop Up at Wilco Supply Co, on February 13th from 5:30 to 8 pm. Local vendors will include Little Fish Workshop, Wildland Chocolate, Kayla Jane Designs, Alaska Concrete Collective, Alaska Salt Co, and Crafty Girl Designs.
Unique handmade earrings created by Little Fish Workshop.
Little vases from Alaska Concrete Collective can be used for plants, pens, jewelry, screws, and more.
Wilco Supply Co offers a variety of minimalistic bags for both men and women. With so many creative options to choose from, you can get something for everyone you love!
For more information head to this link: https://www.facebook.com/events/1556404937848549/
Chocolate
A Valentine’s day custom, chocolate never gets old. Throw a twist on a classic gift by purchasing chocolate from local makers such as Chugach Chocolates, Wildland Chocolate, and Alaska Wildberry Products.
If you’re looking for unique Alaskan flavor combinations, you’ll find that at Chugach Chocolates. Pictured above is the kelp and cayenne dark chocolate bar made with southeast Alaska kelp.
Wildland Chocolate is a small business that enjoys supporting responsibly sourced chocolate. All of their chocolate is dairy, nut, soy, and gluten-free.
Alaska Wildberry Products is known for its enormous chocolate fountain, large selection of sweets, and Alaskana gifts.
Alaska Zoo
Wonderful for all ages, the Alaska Zoo is offering a Valentines event Saturday February 15th from noon to four. Guests will be able to make cards, participate in a scavenger hunt, learn with hands on items, and see Valentine themed animal enrichment. This event is FREE for children ages 17 and under. You can even purchase Valentines for your favorite zoo animals or animal lovers!
Coffee
Alaska has an abundance of coffee shops, and while we don’t necessarily agree that all they have to offer is healthy… a latte or hot chocolate can make a wonderful Valentine’s treat for friends or coworkers. If you want to add a personal touch, bring sticky notes to stick on the cups that have little messages or smiley faces. For a slighter higher cost but an environmentally friendly option, buy a reusable mug or thermos that can be filled up over and over again.
Cooking Classes
Local chef, Jana Patterson is offering a six-person cooking class for $360. Bring your significant other, another couple, family, friends, or whomever you’d like to learn some new cooking skills. She will teach you how to create a delicious appetizer, mouthwatering main course, and a fun dessert. This offer is good until the end of March so find some foodie friends and get cooking! To contact Jana or to see more scrumptious meals, head to her Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gratefullypresreved/
High-quality Outdoor Gear
Alaska has a huge variety of outdoor activities so it makes sense to purchase durable outdoor gear. Whether the people you care about are into hiking, fishing, skiing, snow machining, or hammocking, Anchorage and the Matsu have a variety of outdoor gear shops! Check out The Hoarding Marmot, Big Rays, Mountain View Sports, REI, and All Seasons Clothing Company.
Not only does Mountain View Sports offer an amazing selection of fly fishing items, but they also sell high-quality clothing brands such as Patagonia, Filson, Arcteryx, and Dale of Norway.
All Seasons Clothing Company is located in both Eagle River and Wasilla. Their name is true to the products they sell, made for Alaska’s ever-changing weather and durable enough to take on Alaskan activities.
Axe Throwing
Throwing sharp objects is a fun and unique way to spend Valentine’s Day! Anchorage offers two Axe throwing companies, Alaska Axe Co is located on 68th and Lake Otis and Frosted Axe Throwing is on D street and Fireweed.
Volunteer
What better way to spread love than by helping others out! Bring your friends and family to the Food Bank of Alaska for a fun few hours of volunteering or spend time helping the local Red Cross. If you are looking for a more long term commitment, check out Providence Hospital’s volunteer page.
No matter what you decide to do on Valentine’s Day, find a simple way to show loved ones that you care about them. Make a card, try something listed above, or even just give your favorite people hugs! Live Breathe Alaska hopes you have a wonderful Valentine’s Day filled with love and joy.
