A mask that says it all so that you don't have to...
Bring it on Valentine’s Day. Bring on the pink, the hearts, the cute cards, the excuses to indulge… bring it all. I’ve always adored this Hallmark holiday regardless of my romantic status, and choose to think of it as an excuse for self-love. Wanna know how the rest of the world shows their affection? Check out these 5 stellar gifts for yourself or someone else, inspired by some of the world's loveliest traditions.
Burn baby burn...But also open up that heart chakra with a Rose Quartz candle holder
FRANCE
Today, France’s traditions aren’t far from ours. But back in the day they would play the “Loterie d’Amour” where men and women would fill houses facing each other, then take turns calling out to one another and pairing off. Unmatched women would gather afterward to burn photos of the men who’d wronged them and curse the opposite sex. Sounds like a breakup ritual to me...
The Monthly subscription that keeps on giving… and gives back by supporting the Melanoma Foundation.
SOUTH KOREA
South Koreans really evaluate their romantic status for a 3 month chunk through the spring. On February 14th you’ve got standard Valentine’s Day, then March 14th brings gift-giving for “White Day” and depending how those cards and gifts went over, you may or may not be mourning your single status with blackbean noodles on “Black Day”, April 14th.
The sweetest, softest bamboo pillowcases you’ll ever lay your head upon.
ENGLAND
An old tradition instructs women to place 5 bay leaves and rose water on their pillows to bring dreams of their future husbands. At the very least, your pillows will smell like a dream...
Laser cut invites for anonymous gaekkebrev-ing.
DENMARK
Men give women a gag letter called a gaekkebrev. This funny poem or rhyme is written on snowflake cut paper and signed with anonymous dots. If the woman can guess the sender, she gets an egg around Easter. And maybe dinner or something I hope...? Chocolates? Easter is a long time to wait for an egg!
One of these plus a coffee date? You might wind up having that coffee in bed in the morning...
WALES
Instead of Valentine’s Day, the Welsh celebrate Saint Dwynwen on January 25th by giving love spoons. These tokens of affection were originally carried by men as a reminder of their lovers. Spoon me please.
Looking for a birthday gift for someone or in the mood to treat yourself? Get inspired by my personal wishlist and favorite gift-able items and experiences. Style-y things, wellness-y things. travel-y friendly things… Click through for all great things!