Valentine’s Day has been labeled a commercialized “Hallmark” holiday. I would like to agree with this camp and say “down with Valentine’s Day and its commercialism”, however, I love any day that supports people spreading the L-O-V-E. I do have to laugh a little though at the ways in which we choose to “spread the love”. Nothing says you care like a heart-shaped box of mass-produced chocolates from Rite-Aid that I don’t want anyways because I am perpetually trying to lose 10 pounds. And please don’t even get me started on the cards. I read a Wiki that said 1 billion cards will be sent this Valentine’s Day. That got me thinking – are you kidding me – we have got to get our act together and cut down on the wastefulness of Valentine’s Day. So this blog is an attempt to help people get back to the core of V-day – the Love – and reduce their impact in the process.
I am not going to get all crazy and say that the best thing to do is stay home, make a locavore dinner and exchange the gift of love. (unless of course that gift is the new randy move you learned in this month’s Cosmo) Instead, I am offering up eco-alternatives to common Valentine’s Day activities and gifts. Go green this V-day and have fun with it.
- Eat Local – Dinner is a major Valentine’s Day activity, and I love to EAT – so I say go out and be merry. Try a local restaurant - preferably one that serves food that is grown/raised locally, which will reduce the impact of transporting your tasty meal. Search for local beer and wine when you are considering your drink of choice. In my hometown of Chico, CA, I suggest Sierra Nevada Brewery where you can eat yummy food and drink beer made right there. Valentine’s Day is on a Saturday this year which means you may have a little extra time to whip up a special meal at home. Hitting up your local farmer’s market this week for some local eats and drinks would be a great start. You can also find locally grown/raised food at many natural food stores. In Chico, CA, check out S&S Produce – you can even grab a bottle of La Rocca Vineyards Sparkling Wine to toast the evening. Then you can dim the lights (excellent energy saver) and celebrate with your love.
- Organic Flowers – What girl doesn’t love to get flowers? This is a common gift for sweeties but also for family and close friends. This year, try an organic bouquet from California Organic Flowers – they mail bouquets all over the US. Or, search for a local organic flower grower in your area. You can also opt-out of the cut-flower tradition and go for something that keeps on living like a plant. Check your local nursery for plants that may be propagated locally. In Chico, CA I suggest the Little Red Hen, which supports children and adults with developmental disabilities.
- Cards, Cards, Cards – I say out with the cards for good. There are so many great e-card options these days that letting someone know you care is just a click away. If you feel as though you must give a card your sweetie can hold, try a Bloomin Card made of plantable seed-paper. Just plant the card and it blooms in season.
- Chocolate – Kick the heart-shaped box habit. Instead of the satin box, try locally-made chocolates. Visit your local Chocolate shop and get the sweets they make themselves. In Chico, check out Shuberts or Chocolate Mystique Café.
- Ohh La La – I personally think Lingerie is a great gift for Valentine’s Day. It is great for everyone involved and it’s a gift that keeps on giving. Not all Lingerie is created equal, however, so I encourage you to choose your knickers wisely. Watch this More Than Pretty Knickers video, and then choose a pair of eco-sexy knickers for your Valentine’s Day celebration from Eco Boudoir. Or try my favorite knickers, Hanky Panky, they just released a “Save the Earth” panty. I just love the word knickers, once more, knickers, okay, I’m done.
Enjoy you V-day. I would love to hear any comments or tips you have for keeping Valentine’s Day, or any day, green.
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