Your neat, sweet PDX Valentine’s Day Gift Guide

Love don’t cost a thing, but Valentine’s Day is a whole ‘nuther matter. The holiday gets a bad rap for being over-commercialized, and that’s true. But there’s also a sweet sentimentality at the day’s core that cannot be ignored – and plenty of affordable gifts to demonstrate your affection.

“What I like about Valentine’s Day is it forces all of us to take a little time-out from our busy, chaotic lives and sit down and enjoy each other and appreciate our romance,” said Liza Lubell of Quince Flowers and Events, a local floral and event company that works the front lines of Valentine’s Day each year.

“Who cares if the holiday is a sham,” Lubell said. “It is a silly tradition and there are lots of reasons to be a sourpuss about V-Day, but each year I get a few calls from people placing orders that stop me in my tracks and make me think: It’s good that we have this day for the shy to be expressive and an excuse for the saps to be sappy.”

From saps to cynics, The Neat Sheet has rounded up lovely local Valentine gifts for every friend and lover, with a focus on small and affordable tokens of affection; things or experiences that can be shared together; and gifts that also give back to charities, including Haiti earthquake relief efforts and Designers Against AIDS.

Here’s a look at Portland’s sweetest sweets for your sweet:

Two Guitars Screen-printed Art Cards – How did Valentine’s Day get that bad “Hallmark holiday” rep in the first place? Too many impersonal Hallmark-type cards, of course. Skip the generic greetings and turn your sweet nothings into stylish somethings with a lovely, locally made letterpress Valentine card from one of the many Portland-area artists putting out playful, one-of-a-kind designs. This tattoo-inspired love card is available at ZimZim in Southeast Portland and Icon Tattoo, and you can find more neat original card designs at Studio Olivine, Ecru Modern Stationer, Oblation Papers & Press, Powell’s Books and Paper Source. “You are My New Tattoo” card, $3.50 at ZimZim, 2805 S.E. Ankeny St.; 503-236-7178.

Brehan Todd Lion Tamer Earrings – All cranberry crystals and roaring golden lions, Portland-based jewelry designer Brehan Todd’s wild earrings were inspired by her fascination with old-time carnival and circus images from Coney Island. “These make a great Valentine gift because they add just the right amount of sparkle to any look,” Todd said. “They have a certain romantic vibe because of the cranberry color and the heart backing, and I think they have been so popular for the unique circus couture look that is so current.” Also, 20 percent of sales from the Lion Tamer earrings will benefit Haiti earthquake relief efforts, so you’ll be giving a loving gift to others along with your sweetheart. $49 at brehanclaire.etsy.com and Icon Tattoo Studio, 813 N. Russell St.; 503-957-4738. ?www.icontattoo.net

Red Velvet Cupcakes + Red Tulips – Flowers are every bit as much a treat as cupcakes, so why not double indulge and gift both? Cupcake Jones and Quince Flowers & Events are teaming up to offer an extra sweet Valentine’s Day cupcake + floral bouquet gift package, which includes a pretty box of six mini Red Velvet cupcakes and a big, beautiful bouquet of red tulips to match. Not only is it more unique and affordable to gift red tulips than red roses, but does it get any more romantic than giving flowers named after kisses? Two lips, get it? Cupcakes + Tulips Valentine’s Day package, $48 at Quince Flowers & Events, ?1614 N.W. 15th Ave.; 503-407-2999. www.quinceevents.com

Dark Chocolate 23-k Gilded Sacred Heart Icon – Every year on Valentine’s Day, a line forms down the block from Alma Chocolate boutique, filled with panicky last-minute Valentine gift shoppers. “It’s a lot of wild-eyed guys going ‘Help me!’” said owner Sarah Hart. These guys are in the right place, but we recommend going early because demand for Alma chocolate often exceeds supply on V-day. The most gorgeous gifts here include golden chocolate icons, gilded by hand with 23k edible gold leaf. Choose from large Milagros-inspired Sacred Hearts or smaller styles, including a gold anatomical chocolate heart for more practical romantics ($15). They also offer pretty Valentine boxes of caramels, bonbons and truffles, Lovebird lollipops, cookies, cakes and more, all handmade on site in the shop’s tiny kitchen. Sacred Heart Icon, $25 at Alma Chocolate, 140 N.E. 28th Ave.; 503-517-0262. www.almachocolate.com

Betsy & Iya “I ? PDX” Pendant – Don’t you love Portland enough to make it part of your Valentine’s Day gifting? We’ve written previously about local jewelry designer Betsy Cross and her coveted “I ? PDX” pendant, but we gotta talk it up again because there’s simply no better Valentine’s Day gift for local lovers. Cross will customize pendants for other cities (or people) you happen to ?, too. P.S., don’t forget you can enter to win this necklace on The Neat Sheet right now! And be sure to check out Betsy & Iya’s Textured Romance and Shameless Love collections, which make for sweet Valentine gifting and also help benefit Haiti. Betsy & Iya pendant, $49 at 1722 N.W. Raleigh St., #104; 503-227-5482.? www.betsyandiya.com

Riondo Pink Prosecco (Sparkling Wine) – If you’re pressed for time or don’t feel like making a big fuss over the whole Valentine’s Day shopping deal, here’s an easy way out: just grab a bottle of pretty pink Italian bubbly from your local Fred Meyer. Freddies carries this sparkling rosé wine that will make any lover feel like you drove miles out of your way to find it just for them. Pale pink, sparkly and subtly fruity, its as good as champagne for turning a Sunday Valentine’s eve on the couch into a celebratory lovefest. Oh, and maybe toss in one of those Chocolove dark chocolate bars with raspberries for good measure (they’re in the natural food section). Xoxo. Riondo Pink Prosecco Sparkling Wine, $13.49 at Fred Meyer Hollywood, 3030 N.E. Wiedler St.; 503-28-1300. (Plus, a bazillion other area locations.) www.fredmeyer.com

Elle MacPherson Intimates Treasured Chemise – Luxurious lingerie at Lille Boutique ranges from racy red bits to elegant classics, like this pretty stretch silk chemise by Elle MacPherson Intimates. We love the soft champagne color and detailed cups with delicate embroidery on tattoo mesh. Shop for this and other vintage inspired and handmade underthings, plus Valentine gift-worthy Coté Bastide bath products and locally made jewelry, including Grayling’s delicate silver Metallust collection, and chocolate from Portland’s Xocolatl de David. Elle MacPherson Treasured Chemise, $98 at Lille Boutique, 1007 E. Burnside; 503-232-0333. www.lilleboutique.com

Vintage Art Deco diamond engagement ring – A down economy shouldn’t stand in the way of true love. Valentine’s Day is one of the most popular days of the year for men to pop the great big question, and the experts at Gilt jewelry boutique say doing so with a vintage diamond engagement ring is not only a more sustainable choice, but it’s also more affordable. Plus, Old European-cut diamonds like this .45-ct stunner in bi-color gold are hand-cut, so they have more of a crystal ball sparkle than modern round-cut diamonds. Economy, bah. Ask her already! $995 at Gilt, 720 N.W. 23rd Ave.; 503-226-0629. www.giltjewelry.com

Heart-Shaped Bloodwood Jewelry Box – Anne Bocci boutique in Multnomah Village is not only a gem for, well, gems – but also for beautiful boxes in which to hold your gems. This one-of-a-kind heart-shaped jewelry box was handmade out of South American Bloodwood by Northwest Fine Woodworking artist Curtis Erpelding, and the seams are so beautifully crafted you can barely find the opening (that’s a good thing). The boutique also carries a varied selection of handmade jewelry – chunky freshwater pearls, Swarovski crystals, jet beads and all kinds of sparkle – to give along with the box if your heart is feeling full. Heart-Shaped Bloodwood Jewelry Box, $70 at Anne Bocci Boutique,?7824 S.W. Capitol Hwy.; 503-452-3711. www.annebocciboutique.com

SixScents & Alexandre Herchcovitch Urban Tropicalia Perfume No. 1 – Here’s a neat modern twist on the classic Valentine’s Day gift of perfume: Manhattan designer concept store Seven New York selects six artists and perfumers each year to develop a limited edition series of unisex fragrances to help raise money for a deserving charity. We love this first scent in the series, created by Brazilian designer Herchcovitch and perfumer Joachim Correll, which benefits Designers Against AIDS. The unisex fragrance is meant to evoke sensuality and freedom, but it’s low-key enough for daily wear. “This feels androgynous, modern and a little mysterious,” said Stand Up Comedy co-owner Diana Kim. “And for guys, it’s especially good because the men’s scent market is stubbornly stuck in the junior high nostalgia of Drakkar Noir / Polo-esque malodeur.” We just love that you can share it with partners of either sex, ‘cuz sharing is what Valentine’s Day is all about. $85 at Stand Up Comedy, 811 E. Burnside; 503-233-3382. www.shopstandingup.us

Myla London Red Ruffled Bra + Panty Set – We like to joke that Oh Baby lingerie boutique “raises the bra” when it comes to offering blatantly sexy lingerie and pretty playthings without sacrificing sophistication. That said, “It’s all about sex and the art of seduction,” said store manager/buyer Alison Creighton about choosing the perfect Valentine’s Day gift. We chose this set from Myla London because red is the color of seduction (duh), and this sexy set also has a flirty quality with the ruffles and bow. Find more sexy gifts in Oh Baby’s boudoir accessories section, including garter belts, stockings, massage oil candles and naughty feathered things. Myla London Florence bra, $105; and panties, $50. Oh Baby, 1811 N.E. Broadway; 503-281-7430; and 722 N.W. 23 Ave.; 503-274-4190.? www.ohbabylingerieshops.com

Nicole “Passionate” Pink Western Boots – Short pink pull-on Western boots? Count us in. Footwear may not make the most romantic Valentine’s Day gift, but don’t you love yourself enough to snatch these up anyway? Visit Sole for these cute kickers and other fancy footwork, plus fun accessories and jewelry from local designers, including Grayling, Sahlia Michelle Designs, Harlow Jewelry and more. $139 at Sole, 1033 N.W. Couch St.; 503-222-SOLE.? www.4mysole.com

Swedish Relaxation + Deep Tissue Massage – Sometimes the best Valentine’s Day gifts are experiences rather than things. Like a Swedish relaxation + deep tissue massage and sauna session at Loyly in Southeast Portland. You can buy your sweetie an hour-long massage and sauna package for  $85, or take advantage of their Valentine’s Special for Two and go together. The $149 package includes 30-minute massages, use of the sauna, masks, aromatherapy foot soaks, cleansing tea, sparkling water and your choice of body salts. Or, if you’re looking for an inexpensive shared luxury, you can enjoy two aromatherapy foot soaks for $14 throughout February. 2713 S.E. 21st Ave.; 503-236-6850. loyly.net

Rock Socks BACON Socks – Is there anything more romantic than bacon tube socks? Gosh, no. Rock Socks’ unisex pink-and-red BACON socks make a sizzling statement: I love you, let’s eat. Plus, they’re right in line with Portland’s current bacon trend. In fact, why not put together an entire porktastic Valentine gift package of BACON socks and one of Mo’s Chocolate Bacon Bars, a best-selling applewood-smoked bacon chocolate bar you can find for $7.50 at The Meadow on Mississippi. BACON Socks, $10 at rocksocks.net or at Red Light Clothing Exchange, 3590 S.E. Hawthorne Blvd.; 503-963-8888. www.redlightclothingexchange.com

Foodie Gift Baskets – As long as we’re talking bacon, let’s discuss more fun foodie gift options from The Meadow on Mississippi. Here you’ll find natural woven gift baskets and all manner of yummy things to fill them with, perfect for cooks or just gourmet eaters. Shop for pretty bottles of pink cooking salts, gourmet caramels from DePaula Confections and entire walls devoted to artisan chocolate and wine. The Meadow also is a full-service florist, which basically makes it one-stop Valentine shopping of the highest order. Gift baskets at just about any price range, 3731 N. Mississippi Ave.; 503-288-4633. www.atthemeadow.com

Lucy Final Round Jacket – It doesn’t get any more “Valentine’s Day” than bright pink ruffles, which make’s Lucy activewear’s frilly pink Final Round Jacket a fun piece to run around in all the lovey-dovey day. Water-resistant and lined with breathable mesh, it’s a perfect gift choice for active, stylish women – whether they wind up spending Valentine’s Day at the gym, running a marathon or chasing boys. We recommend that last one. $98 at Lucy, 1015 N.W. Couch St.; 503-226-0220. (Three area locations.) www.lucy.com

Missionary Chocolate gift box – Does this gift guide have room for one more chocolate entry? Mmmmm yeah, if it’s a pretty package of Missionary Chocolate handmade vegan truffles. And don’t pay too much attention to the “vegan” part – you’d never taste the difference, that’s just a nice bonus for our meat- and dairy-free friends. The rich truffles and vanilla salted caramels are made locally in a small Southeast Portland kitchen by master chocolatier Melissa Berry and her sister Vanessa Holden, and they’re building a delicious reputation as some of Oregon’s finest chocolate. Find them in the local shops below, or enter to win an 8-pc. box of Missionary Chocolate truffles for Valentine’s Day here. Missionary Chocolate 8-pc. gift box, $15 at 7Planet Green General Store, Food Front Cooperatives, Whole Foods on East Burnside at 28th Avenue and more. (Find all Missionary Chocolate retailers here).

Love Rats – Above all, Valentine’s Day gift giving should be as lighthearted and fun as love itself (in an ideal world, at least). This is where ZimZim comes in. The playful month-old shop on Southeast 28th Avenue makes Valentine’s shopping so much fun, with affordable and whimsical gifts for friends and lovers. We found “Extra Fancy Smells Better Than a Boyfriend Soap” for your singles besties, heart-shaped wooden thumb harps, “I ? You” egg shapers (to go with your bacon socks!), giant inflatable hearts, “Stay in Love Forever” Breath Spray, trendy jewelry and, of course, squeaky rubber heart-print Love Rats. Make this your first and last stop for small tokens of affection ($20-under) that will demonstrate your love without taking the holiday too seriously. Love Rats, $4.50 each at  ZimZim, 2805 S.E. Ankeny St.; 503-236-7178.

NOTE: Watch video from The Neat Sheet’s Valentine’s Day Gift Guide on KOIN TV “Keep It Local”

This NEAT, advertorial-free Valentine’s Day Gift Guide is entirely editorial and was produced by The Neat Sheet without advertiser support. In other words, you can trust we like this stuff for real.

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