We will again be celebrating our love for one another this year on Valentine’s Day, as we do faithfully each year on February 14th. Even though the theme always stays the same, the special gifts you present to your most loved ones definitely don’t have to! So, this is the year to shake off the last minute flowers or candy you’ve had on repeat for the past however many years and go for a unique approach. And there’s no better place to find unique gifts in Lincoln than our local boutiques!

Offering an ever-changing selection of items you can’t find anywhere else, boutiques are the go-to sources for that special something you can’t quite put your finger on until you see it. Also, they offer a “style sanctuary” for all shoppers, not just the savvy or adventurous ones but also the ones that need a little (or a lot!) of expert assistance. Boutiques allow you to view what’s on trend, they always carry the most fantastic seasonal staples, and boutiques are also well known for providing a high level of personalized customer service for their patrons. The staff are always friendly, helpful and well versed in the items they carry, so if you’re curious about something or in the midst of a tough decision you are welcome to ask them plenty of questions (Think: “Will this shrink?”, “Does this run true to size?”, “Do you think he/she will like this if they also like…?”, “What have your other customers thought of this?” and so on). Many local boutiques also carry items from local vendors, which is a nice touch too—anytime you can buy gifts while maximizing your support for our local economy is a win-win! For example, as the majority of Lincolnites also share a love of all things Nebraska, choosing a Valentine’s gift from a specialty gift shop that features tons of items made right here in our great state is the perfect way to your loved one’s Husker heart.

You might have the initial reaction to avoid a boutique if you don’t know the exact size or style preference of the target of your affection, but here’s why you shouldn’t: Even boutiques that are popular for their stylish selection of clothing also likely carry a decent selection of accessories. It’s not uncommon to find perfume, handbags, scarves, hats, hair accessories, jewelry, candles, home décor items, and much more in addition to great clothing pieces. Furthermore, there are even flexible clothing items that aren’t size specific such as ponchos or flowy tops. If none of that hits the mark, a gift card or certificate is a wonderful excuse for the recipient to shop somewhere new. This is not only a gift of an item they are sure to love because they picked it out, but also the gift of a fun, relaxing shopping experience. Whether it is a boutique they already love or a new spot to check out, either way it will be very much appreciated!

(Side Note: Do you keep getting gifts that miss the mark? Consider keeping a “Wish List” on file at your favorite local boutique. You just pick out the items you’d love to receive and the boutique will keep the list available for future reference. It definitely makes gift shopping much easier and less intimidating when there’s a selection of items ready to choose from that are all a guaranteed hit. A polite nudge or slight hint drop and problem solved!)

For those who are looking to step up their game to the next level of gift giving this Valentine’s Day, consider hitting the local boutiques yourself to find something sassy, sexy, romantic, or whatever style suits your personality and then schedule a boudoir photography session featuring you in your brand new looks! Your significant other will certainly be in for a pleasant surprise not to mention impressed with your confidence, creativity and thoughtfulness.

So Happy Valentine’s Day to all of the lovers out there; enjoy the day and the opportunity to spread the love everywhere you go! But don’t forget to show those important people in your life that they loved the other 364 days of the year too!