
A Better Valentine's Day, Part 1
Valentine's Day is just so....bleh! I love gifting (mostly because I get to go shopping for said gifts) but I wouldn't be caught dead in a cliche, and (for the most part) neither would my loved ones.
In fact, I didn't even actually realize that I was shopping for Valentine's Day gifts until I headed to the South End in Boston for a pull for an upcoming magazine shoot. The neighbood's close concentration of shops is where I found all the props I needed for the shoot - and then some.
So I found myself struck by Cupid's arrow, after all. And the objects of my affection? Among them: vintage matchbooks, a tin of smokeable herbs, and a tiny, handmade comb to go with that lumbersexual-approved beard oil.I guess I'm the romantic type, after all.

Olives and Grace623 Tremont StreetBoston, MA. 02118617-236-4536 / olivesandgrace.com



Sault577 Tremont StreetBoston, MA 02118(857) 239-9434 / saultne.com
Valentine's Day doesn't have to be over the top, like some of the other Hallmark Holidays, so opt for a memorable and thoughtful token instead of a big ticket item - this is not the time for electronics, gift certificates, or cash. Surprise them with something they never knew they wanted, but that will make an appearance in their everyday lives, like the mug or matches that I snagged (for myself!). So much better than a stuffed bear holding a polyester heart.And, stay tuned for South End Shopping / Valentine's Day Part 2 later this week; If you're going to go the flower route, I'll show you where to score Boston's most beautiful, unexpected, exotic, and creative arrangements, most of them living (read: they won't be in the trash after a week).Cheers,Renata