Valentine’s Day Gifts that Celebrate Black History Month

February is an important time of the year, with two big holidays: Black History Month & Valentine’s Day. What better way to honor these holidays by giving Valentine’s gift that also celebrates Black History Month?

I’ve always had mixed views about Valentine’s Day. It can be a great holiday, a time to celebrate love that has lead to some special memories with my wife. But, it’s also a seemingly manufactured holiday focused on getting us to spend more on things we don’t need. Over the years, I’ve learned to make the holiday my own and now enjoy the excuse to spend time with my wife.

So this year, I’ve decided to help make Valentine’s Day something amazing for you too. To bring together this holiday with Black History Month, I’ve scoured the internet for a list of gifts that also honor Black History Month. All the gifts I recommend below had to meet one of these criteria: 1) perfect for the black love of your life or 2) perfect for anyone, but comes from a black-owned business.

I think gift giving is important. It’s a way to show how you feel towards another person. It’s not about how much you spent or how impressive the gift is. It’s about the thought and effort that went into choosing the gift.

If you are still trying to find something for that special someone, here are some options for you. There is something for everybody.

A Luxurious Box of Chocolates

Chocolates are the classic gift which rarely fails. They can be shared, making it mutually beneficial (like lingerie), have at least one flavor to satisfy anyone, and are convenient to buy and gift.

This year, take a look at the Valentine’s Day Gift Collection from Phillip Ashley Chocolates. While pricey, this box of chocolates from the black-owned luxury chocolatier based in Memphis, Tennessee will definitely stand out. Phillip is self-taught, but his shop has won several awards, his chocolates can be found in Neiman Marcus, and his chocolates were the official chocolates of the 2016 OSCARS and GRAMMYs. If you want that box of chocolates to stand out, try these and know you are supporting a black-owned business too.

A Day of Pampering at the Spa

Almost every woman, and some men, (my wife is in the 1% that does not like the spa) can find something enjoyable at the spa. From getting a relaxing massage, relaxing in the jacuzzi, or getting a facial, it’s a nice break from the stresses of work and building wealth.

Across the US, there are many black-owned spas capable of delivering your loved one a relaxing experience. I was able to find this list of black-owned spas, organized by state, for you to treat that special someone with. Take a look at SpaIndex’s list of black-owned spas for one near you.

A Special Shirt for the Strong Black Woman in Your Life

Clothing is a gift that is practical and special. You’ll enjoy seeing them wear it in the future and they will appreciate the new item. BUT … you have to know what they like. If you get something the person will never wear it will just hang around in the closet creating awkward moments for years to come. T-shirts can be a safe bet because even an ugly shirt can make good loungewear.

A few years ago I got one of these for my wife and I’ve been recommending them ever since. I found these shirts one day on Amazon, frantically looking for a gift with 1-day prime shipping. I came across so many options, but the one you see above is my favorite shirt for moms. If the special lady isn’t a mom yet, this alternative looks amazing.The shirts are empowering and stylish.

Share a Bottle of Wine

Personally, I don’t think any Valentine’s Day should go without a bottle of wine or champagne. I’m biased, living in Spain now where wine is cheaper than water, but I’ve always loved wine. Many date nights have been and will continue to be, finished with a bottle of wine and some Netflix.

I’m ashamed to say I never made the visit while living in Oakland, CA, but I’ve known of Brown Estate Wineries for some time as the black-owned winery in Napa Valley. The winery, which originally just produced grapes for other wineries, began producing wines when the kids inherited the business. Just another real example of the power of generational wealth.

A Beautiful Gift from The Mother Land

Often, finding the right gift comes down to finding the right store. It may be a style, a cause, or a personal attachment that makes everything from this place magical. In addition, you may win a lifetime of admiration for finding someone’s new favorite store.

When I came across Swahili Modern, I was treated to a large selection of items produced independently by small producers in various African countries. While the company is not black-owned (from my limited background checking), their commitment to fair trade practices and to enriching and bringing access to authentic African goods spoke to me. Within their Valentine’s Day Collection, this Deluxe Self Care Gift Basket caught my eye as being affordable, thoughtful, and supporting an important social mission.

Inspiring Art for the Home

Art can be a great gift for the right person. If you know they will appreciate and be able to use the gift, it’s a way to leave a lasting impression. Every time they see it, it will trigger a positive mini memory and will enhance their home.

I came across these art pieces one day while scouring Amazon and really like them. While I haven’t purchased them personally, this set of five black women seem like a good fit for anyone looking to decorate their home with some strong Black images.

A Stylish New Watch

Jewelry is another timeless gift. It can make for an impressive gift and a keepsake that will be used and remind the receiver of your care. But, I will say that many jewelry gifts are wastes of money and put a lot of strain on people financially. So, shop cautiously. Make sure any purchase is within your budget and will be well received by the other person. And always give a gift receipt, because if they don’t like it, don’t let the money die in a black hole of VVS clarity diamonds.

With all that said, I love watches. One of the original motivations for starting my journey in wealth was to buy a Rolex. When I got there, I decide to buy investment properties instead, but I still keep something presentable on my wrist. My point-while you can still enjoy them, don’t get sucked into the wealth pit that are watches.

While looking for nice watches to recommend for the special guy in your life, I came across Talley & Twine. This black-owned watchmaker is based out of Portsmouth, Virginia with a great story. The owner, facing a lay-off and several failed businesses, came to VA with a desire to do it differently and do it right this time for his wife and child. I really like their designs and their signature “7” on each watch. And with affordability as a goal, you will spend significantly less than a Rolex.

Choosing the Right Gift

Now that you have an assortment of Valentine’s Day gifts that also support Black History Month, you need to pick the right one. At the core, it comes down to knowing the person and matching their style. What do they like? What do they need? What will make them smile?

And of course, set a budget and stick to it. You shouldn’t be sacrificing your financial well-being to have a hot gift. The above list ranges from $15 to a few hundred dollars. Pick something that makes sense for you and don’t overdo it.

Have a good gift idea or company we left out? Leave us a comment and let the community know.