Valentine’s Day is tomorrow, and if you’re still empty-handed, don’t panic. We’ve got your back with the ultimate procrastinator’s guide to scoring thoughtful gifts that feel anything but last minute.
From cozy bookstore finds to whimsical experiences, here’s how to save face this V-Day:
For the culture vultures
These gift spots are a gold mine for quick, thoughtful presents. Grab that journal they’ve been eyeing or snag some unique art.
- Barnes & Noble: Premium journals, bestsellers and luxe pens.
- Virginia Highland Books: Support local and shop curated selections for Black History Month, trending books and good reads for the whole fam.
- Bellow’s Film Lab: Film photos are officially cool. If your Valentine loves capturing moments, stop by Bellow’s in Little Five Points for cameras, film and more.
- Criminal Records: Shop vintage vinyl to the latest releases.
- HomeGrown Decatur: This local spot features “Southern art and regional goods,” including art, books, cutesy cards, jewelry, candles and more.
Liquid love potions
Skip the generic wine aisle at the grocery store and head straight for the good stuff because nothing says “I get you” like carefully curated beverages.
- Elemental Spirits Co.: Channel your inner Paul Giamatti from “Sideways” and shop local selects, premium whiskeys, wines and mixers.
- Portrait Coffee: Single-origin coffees, blends and really cool merch.
- Bizarre Coffee: Shop artisanal blends or buy your boo a coffee subscription.
- The Georgia Hemp Co.: Specialty beverages and other neat items.
Techies have hearts, too
Looking for something that’ll light up their eyes (and heart)?
- Best Buy: Instax cameras, premium headphones and Apple accessories.
- Micro Center: A gamer’s paradise featuring gear, tech accessories and more.
Whimsical wonders
For those who appreciate the quirky and unique.
- Richards Variety Store: Cards, party supplies, novelty items, costumes, candy, toys, games and kitchenware.
- Rhen’s Nest Toy Shop at Ponce City Market: Unique games and playful gifts for the young at heart.
- A goat-gram: Seriously, you can order a goat to your home or office. They’ll get 30 minutes to play and cuddle with the cutie.
Flower power
Yes, you can still get gorgeous blooms.
- The Victorian Atlanta: Artisanal arrangements at Ponce City Market and in the heart of EAV.
- Nourish Botanica: This Black-owned plant shop in Joyland features fresh and dried flowers.
- Trader Joe’s, Kroger and Costco: Gorgeous (and affordable) options for those quick grocery store runs. Grab some eggs while you’re there!
Jewelry, candles and leather goods
There are plenty of great spots to shop for stylish accessories:
- Gorjana: Dainty, everyday jewelry that goes with everything.
- Madewell: Chic leather goods and timeless jewelry staples.
- Mickey Lynn: The most gorgeous small-batch designs and permanent jewelry — so cool.
- Anthropologie: Unique gems, candles and dreamy home vibes.
- Citizen Supply: Handcrafted pieces from local artists.
For the outdoor enthusiast
Adventure gear is always a win for the rugged souls in your life:
- REI: Top-tier camping gear, coolers and everything else for the great outdoors.
- Dick’s Sporting Goods: Athletic wear, shoes and sporting must-haves.
- Home Depot: Tools and essentials for the DIY champ.
- Play It Again Sports: Pre-loved sporting gear, exercise equipment, bikes and even kayaks. Sustainability is in.
Experience is everything
Here’s where you can really shine. Atlanta’s got some incredible last-minute options that feel anything but:
Alien Love Story at Woodruff Park: From Feb. 13 through March 14, “Stem by Stem — Alien Boy Gives Me Flowers” transforms the park into fantasy with giant, illuminated creatures. It’s Instagram gold, and totally free. And on Feb. 13, there’s live music and a love-note writing station with writers who can help you craft the perfect message.
More options:
- Atlanta Botanical Garden: Valentine’s in the Garden with twinkling lights and craft cocktails.
- Movie theaters: Cinephiles will love being whisked away to the theatre! Just don’t forget the candy and popcorn. Local favorites include the Plaza Theatre, Tara Atlanta, Landmark’s Midtown Art Cinema, and if you’re OTP, try NCG Cinema in Acworth.
- State Farm Arena: Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey’s spectacular show. Feb. 14-17.
- Pisces: Head to Edgewood Ave for a late-night dance party at Pisces, hosting Super Kawaii V-Day with a Hello Kitty DJ set. As their website puts it, “Hello Kitty is literally DJing.”
- Red Phone Booth: Love & Jazz night featuring live performances.
- The Eastern: Head to the Eastern for Joe Russo’s Almost Dead. Perfect for the Deadheads in your life.
- Georgia Aquarium: Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Sips Under the Sea, an 18+, after-hours event at the aquarium. Enjoy drinks, dancing and stunning marine life.
Gift cards (you tried)
Listen, gift cards can actually be thoughtful if you do it right:
- Kroger’s Local’s Love gift card: Head to your nearest Kroger’s gift card section (or online) and look for its Atlanta Locals Love card. It’s a gift of experience redeemable at various local businesses, including Buttermilk Kitchen, Center for Puppetry Arts and Skyline Park.
- Local restaurants: Grab a card from your boo’s favorite hangout or a trendy new spot you both have been wanting to try.
The AJC may receive a commission for purchases made through some links in this article.
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