January 25, 2024
Lifestyle, Feature,
How lucky are we to have so many unique companies and businesses in our city? Shopping locally is a fantastic way to support the local economy and small businesses. Perhaps an experience that will give them a memory to last a lifetime or a thoughtful gift they’ll love? You truly cannot go wrong shopping in the 512.
See also: How to Celebrate Valentine's Day in Austin
ACL, SXSW
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Music is the way to most Austinite’s hearts. Pay in advance for their SXSW pass or ACL pass so they can access all of the music and local bands their musical heart desires. If you’d rather see a local show together, buy some tickets and plan a special night out on the town. There are so many good ones, so it will be tough to choose, but if you know they love blues or rock, start there and see what’s around. cboys.com
Allen’s Boots
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If your Austinite doesn’t have “their” go-to pair of boots yet, it’s high time you got them a pair. Cowboy hats customized or boots that will last a lifetime are the perfect gift for your southern sweetheart. One can never have too many boots, especially as they are becoming more of a fashion statement these days. In the spirit of the holiday, perhaps a vibrant red-colored pair. allensboots.com
Austin FC, Spurs, UT
GOAL! Tickets to their favorite sporting events are an excellent gift for anybody! UT season passes, a Spurs game, or Austin FC are all energizing ways to spend time together, whether with your significant other or your kiddos, who too can be your Valentine. Quality time together is something you cannot put a price on. nba.com/spurs
Austin Heat Novels, Bookpeople
Have a book-a-holic as your Valentine? Surprise them with a saucy spin on Austin romance. Austin Heat is based on ATX landmarks and brands and follows a spicy romantic tale. A series with three novels out, The author, Austin-based bestselling Author Amari Nylix, has received nothing but praise for her creative tales. The Austin Heat series can be found in Austin at BookPeople, Vintage Books & Wine, Westbank Library, and online through Amazon. amarinylix.com
Katie Kime
Every lady likes a nice pajama set, but when they’re custom to one’s city, it’s even more special. Extra points for the monogrammed customization, so she knows you put thought into it prior. The brand Katie Kime is Austin-based and makes for the perfect touch to Cupid’s holiday. Of course, they have a line specifically for Valentine’s Day if you’re feeling the love theme. katiekime.com
STAG
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If your Valentine is a classy guy, STAG is the spot to grab some pieces he will love! You can shop online or at their store on Congress. You won’t find anything in there your man wouldn’t love. They have a fantastic array of fashion and accessories, and the quality is unmatched. stagprovisions.com
The Collective, Hiatus Spa
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A spa treatment MAY sound basic, but paying for their favorite cosmetic treatment or a much-deserved massage is a lovely way to get your sweetheart to relax and be pampered. This can be anything from a blowout at their favorite salon to a chemical facial they’ve talked about for months. It’s a nice way to show them you listen and care. thecollectiveatx.com; hiatusspa.com
The Xtreme Experience-COTA
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Give your loved one a rush and invite your car connoisseurs to COTA to experience the thrill of race car driving. As someone who has hit 175 mph in a McClaren on this very track, let me tell you it’s the most exhilarating way to enjoy the sport. This is one of those bucket list items you’ll have a blast doing, and since we are the only palace in the U.S. with a permanent track, you know your gift is pretty unique. thextremexperience.com/tracks/cota
Understated Leather
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To gift clothing that will last as long as your love is something to treasure. Understated Leather, founded and based here in ATX, creates incredible authentic leather pieces that make you feel like a true Texan but with an edge. A leather jacket is a fun gift and a luxurious way to add to any outfit. UL makes unique pieces for men, women, and even kids. Check out their online store and grab a piece before they sell out again! understatedleather.com
Vada
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Luxury eyewear and jewelry with an iconic style handcrafted in East Austin, VADA, is an elegant spin on old favorites. A sparkling piece of jewelry by women for women is the kind of gift women dream of, knowing the quality is unmatched. Their eyewear is loved by many, and for good reason. With so many options to choose from, there is something for everybody. You can find VADA at both ByGeorge locations or online. vadajewelry.com
William Chris Wine
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Red red wine… Whichever local winery holds your most precious day-drinking memories is a great gift to buy from. If you remember your significant other’s or best friend’s wine of choice from a weekend of wine, getting them a case or a few bottles is the kindest gesture for the holiday dedicated to chocolates, wine, and love. This specific bottle from William Chris is a sparkling, bubbly wine with a pretty pink tone, perfect for the day of love. Or, if you’d prefer, give them tickets to a vineyard experience. shop.williamchriswines.com
Photography by: courtesy of: Spurs; Austin Heat; Katie Kime
