As much as we all love fresh flowers, there are some (admittedly cynical) reasons not to give them to your loved one on Valentine’s Day: Real flowers, by nature, don’t last. They also make a mess, dropping pollen and petals all over your table. And since some flowers can be poisonous if ingested, they’re not the safest choice to have around kids or pets. So if the object of your affection is allergic, has a mischievous cat, or would rather not spend their time cleaning up fallen stamen, we’d like to suggest the following alternatives. Here are 19 Strategist-favorite Valentine’s Day gifts that possess the best attributes of flowers without actually being real flowers.
For valentines who bring their lunch to work
A sustainable tote bag from Strategist-fave Baggu that’s emblazoned with a classic “thank-you bag” red rose.
For valentines who prefer flowers in a book
A coffee-table book that lets anyone enjoy an elaborate bouquet with no chance of sneezing.
For busy valentines
This floral notebook from Strat-approved stationery brand Rifle Paper Co. will make to-do lists a tiny bit more romantic.
For valentines who get turned on by mood lighting
Boy Smell candles have shown up on more than a few Strategist gift guides because their scents — including the above Cinderose — skew earthy and herbal rather than sweet and perfume-y.
For valentines who look forward to bedtime
Marimekko’s signature graphic flower print will make sure you and your valentine always go to bed happy.
For fickle valentines
This removable wallpaper will last forever. But if you get tired of it before then it’s also easy to take down.
For flower lovers who travel constantly
For lovers with lips like no other
A tinted balm made with chrysanthemums that adjusts its color when applied based on your valentine’s unique pH-level.
For lovers with chapped lips
For wildflower aficionados
A highly rated duvet set adorned with botanical drawings of dandelions and wild roses.
For best friends who moved away
Recommended by teachers, this cheery pop-up daisy card will make any friend feel appreciated.
For first crushes
For college crushes who don’t own a vase
A dorm-friendly (and easy-to-install) poster that’ll remind them of you while they study for that biochem exam.