After the December holidays, Valentine's Day can sneak up on you. Be prepared with these gift suggestions, ranging from inexpensive treats to serious bling.
1. Flowers
Don't underestimate the power of a beautiful bouquet for your significant other. This is the perfect sweet but light-hearted Valentine's Day gift for someone you've just started dating. In Williamsburg, Graceful Gardens (on Driggs) specializes in more exotic, beautiful flowers and potted plants. Or just stop by Khim's, the bodega on Driggs - they have a surprising selection of bouquets.
2. Chocolates
Nothing says love like Chocolate, and luckily for you, there's a chocolate factory smack-dab in the middle of Williamsburg. Mast Brothers Chocolate specializes in handcrafted chocolate sold en masse or by the bar, right out of their factory space on North Third Street. With over ten different varities to choose from, and a gorgeous wrapper, a Mast Brothers bar (or two, or three) makes for a perfect gift.
3. Books
A novel or a book of love poems can make great Valentine's Day gifts, very romantic ones, for the significant other who loves to read. A used edition, if it's pretty, has more appeal - it's more original and rare. Spoonbill and Sugartown, on Bedford Avenue, has a fantastic selection of both new and used books.
4. Wine and Gourmet Treats
If your boyfriend or girlfriend is a foodie, get them a nice bottle of wine from UVA Wines on Bedford and N.6th, or pay a visit to the Bedford Cheese Shop just right down the street. This shop has everything from Bloody Mary Mix to imported Scottish Shortbread, not to mention rare and delicious cheeses. Even better, grab the wine and the cheese, stay in for Valentine's Day, and give your significant other a homemade dinner.
5. Jewelry
There are several boutiques lining Bedford Avenue that sell handcrafted or vintage jewelry, Catbird being one of the best, located right off Bedford and North 5th Street. Most of the pieces in the store are one of a kind, and range anywhere in price from $40 to $300 and upwards. The Brooklyn Flea Market as well is a great place to shop for vintage and handmade jewelry.