Valentine’s Day 2025: The Tigress Guide to Ethical and Artful Gifting

At Tigress, we don’t believe in "filler" gifts. You won't find aisles of plastic-wrapped chocolates or mass-produced teddy bears here. When I source for my shop in Durham, I look for objects that tell a story — pieces made by artisans who are paid fairly, using materials that won't end up in a landfill by next February.

Whether you’re celebrating a decades-long partnership, a new spark, or the friend who keep you grounded, here are some ideas for sustainable gifts that say “I love you!”.

For the One Who Treasures the Written Word

A card shouldn't be an afterthought; it should be the keepsake.

• “Hot Stuff” Screen-Printed Card ($6): I love the cheeky, retro vibe of this card. It’s screen-printed on 100% recycled cardstock and perfect for the person who spices up your life.

• “I Love You” Gold Foil Card ($5): For something a bit softer, this card features shimmering gold foil accents and a sweet floral design. It’s the kind of card people end up framing or keeping in their bedside drawer for years.

• Everyday Offerings of Love by Lea Redmond ($14.95): This isn't just a book; it’s a prompt for connection. Shaped like an open hand, it’s filled with sentiments that help you articulate the "why" behind your love. I recommend this for the partner who appreciates quiet, reflective moments.

• Red Floral Journal ($15.99): If your Valentine is a dreamer or a poet, these sustainably sourced notebooks provide a beautiful space for their thoughts. The covers are durable enough to survive a daily commute in a tote bag.

For the Self-Care Ritualist

Gifting "permission to relax" is the ultimate luxury.

• Weighted Lavender Eye Masks ($22): Great to help reset after a long day! These eye masks are filled with organic lavender and flaxseed, providing just enough pressure to ease tension.

• English Rose Hand Cream ($4): This is my favorite "little extra." It’s a vegan formula that smells like a real garden, not a synthetic perfume. It’s a perfect addition to a gift basket or a standalone "thinking of you" gesture.

• Rosey Posey Soaps ($10): This handcrafted vegan soap is designed to look and feel like a rose. It’s the perfect luxury addition to your beloved’s bath routine!

• Lavender Perfume Oils ($30): Unlike alcohol-based sprays, these roll-ons interact with the wearer's skin chemistry for a subtle, intimate scent. I chose these because they are travel-friendly and made with pure essential oils.

For the One Who Appreciates Artful Details

Jewelry and accessories that celebrate "Slow Fashion."

• Brass and Moonstone Sculpture Ring ($77): This ring has a bold, architectural feeling, yet the design was inspired by mushrooms (so chic! so fun!). Plus, it’s adjustable, so you don’t have to worry about getting the size wrong.

• Tiny Dried Bouquet Pendant ($48): This delicate necklace features dried flowers inside a round pendant on a gold-plated chain. Why choose between gifting flowers or jewelry, when you can give both? 

• Handcrafted Cotton-Silk Bandanas ($29): These are incredibly versatile: they can be worn as a neck scarf, a hair accessory, or even tied onto a handbag. The patterns are created using traditional block-printing techniques by artisans in India.

• Heart-Shaped Trinket Dishes ($12): A spot for your Valentine to place their jewelry at night. It’s a sweet gift that remains useful all year round.

For the Homebody

Create a sanctuary for every day.

• Hand-Poured Beeswax Pillar Candles ($16.50): Most candles are made from paraffin (petroleum). I stock these because beeswax actually purifies the air. They have a natural, honey-sweet scent that sets a warm, golden mood for a Valentine’s dinner.

• Cup of Love Tea ($3.50): The perfect recipe for relaxation! This naturally sweet blend of organic rose and organic tulsi is deeply soothing.

• Sandalwood Incense Cones ($12): For the person who loves a "vibey" atmosphere. These are high-quality, wood-based cones that provide a deep, grounding scent.

• The Tigress Festive Gift Basket ($50): If you’re truly stumped, our gift baskets are a masterclass in curation. They include a mix of spa items and home goods, all packed in a fair-trade woven basket.

Shop the full 2025 Valentine’s Collection

You’re welcome to come shop these items (and lots more) in person, or order online! 

Everything in our shop is selected with a focus on fair trade, eco-consciousness, and individuality. When you shop with us, you’re supporting a local Durham business and independent makers worldwide.

Location: 2302 Chapel Hill Road, Durham, NC.

Hours: Monday–Saturday (12–6 PM), Sunday (12–4 PM).