Hey Cupid, did you forget something? Valentine’s Day is almost here, but it’s not too late to snag flowers, sweet treats, and a heartfelt card for your longtime partner or new fling.
This year, why not skip the big box stores and spoil your special someone with something more meaningful? These locally owned shops are stocked with Valentine’s Day gifts for last-minute shoppers because love shouldn’t look rushed, even if you are.
Flowers
Austin Flower Co., 1612 W. 35th St.
This floral retailer + wholesaler was founded in 1996 with the goal of replicating a European-style flower market. Peruse an indoor jungle of high-quality blossoms — I mean, just look at this overflowing inventory — to find the perfect bunch for your Valentine. Pro tip: they’ll mix together the flowers you choose + gift wrap them for free.
Blackbird Floral, 2124 E. 6th St., Ste. #103
Want to pamper your partner, but only have time for one pit stop? Operating in ATX for over a decade, this local florist is stocked with grab-and-go flowers, bouquet wraps, and goodies like candles, cards, chocolates, and gift sets. You can also snag a Valentine’s Day subscription for recurring flower deliveries.
Flor Keeps, 8534 S. Congress Ave., Unit 320
The dried flowers in this colorful shop are preserved in a plant-based and biodegradable formula, meaning they won’t wilt or require any upkeep. Its roses are grown in South America and keep their natural look for over a year, but you can also pick from various dried bouquets and bundles of foliage.
Treats
Quack’s Bakery, multiple locations
Surprise the animal lover in your life with a dose of sweetness — these cat, hedgehog, bee, and dachshund-themed cookies will be waiting for you in the bakery cases through Friday, Feb. 14. Psst — where there’s sugar, there’s spice. “Naughty” shortbread cookies are also available upon request.
Sweet Treets Bakery, 6705 Hwy. 290 W., Ste. #601
Everyone deserves a little sweet treat. Mosey in the Austin-based bakery through Saturday, Feb. 15 to sugar up your Valentine with a mini heart cake, conversation cookies, “cake pucks,” or assorted themed cupcakes. You can also place an order online.
Walton’s Fancy & Staple, 609 W. 6th St.
Owned by Sandra Bullock, this artisan deli + bakery has a pastry case full of swoon-worthy desserts like handmade macarons, brownies, cupcakes, chocolate-covered strawberries, and its iconic Golden Eggs. While you’re there, go ahead and “raid the refrigerator” of floral bouquets — your Valentine will thank you.
Cards
The Paper + Craft Pantry, 1023 Springdale Rd., Ste. 6A
The Valentine’s Shop is oozing with cuteness at this stationery shop + workshop studio, which has served the Austin area since 2015. We suggest “Love You Big Time” for a watch collector, “Grumpy Love” for a sassy sweetheart, and “Love & Stuff” for the no-frills flame.
Letterpress PLAY, 2002 S. Congress Ave.
You’ll find oodles of card options in this studio, which curates paper products from Austin-based artisans. “You and Meoow” is well-suited for cat lovers, while “Page Turner” will surely win a bookworm’s affection.
Paper Work, 1704 S. Congress Ave.
Mini art prints make great card replacements — just write your message on the back + let your lover hang the artwork wherever their heart desires. In addition to pocket prints, you can also find heart-shaped bowls, Valentine’s Day stickers, and more at this SoCo staple.
