Have a St. Vital Valentine’s Day

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 11/02/2019 (1501 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

We all know that Valentine’s Day is a completely made-up, commercial holiday that exists primarily to boost post-holiday sales slumps — but if you do have a special someone, he or she will expect something, even if just a card or dinner.

Since you likely will have to open your wallet, and if you want to do something more than just dinner and a card, you should at least spend your hard-earned dollars locally.

St. Vital shops have many unique options for anyone still needing a gift, which is likely almost everyone, from traditional options such as flowers and chocolates, to salons and spas, so forget calling Edible Arrangements, and keep your Valentine’s shopping simple and local.

For a foolproof Valentine’s, consider taking the time to pick up or send a blooming bouquet of flowers from Top Hat Florists on St. Mary’s Rd, who even offer same day delivery. It might be expensive but the colours and scent will definitely be appreciated, especially at this time of year, and Top Hat has romantic bouquets starting at $50.

If you can’t bring yourself to open your wallet for flowers, you can give a spa or salon package at My El Spa for some much deserved pampering and relaxation, or even a gift certificate and  from many of the local hair and nail salons in St. Vital.

For sweethearts with a sweet tooth, pick up artisanal chocolates or a special dessert to end the evening. Bring home a cheesecake or cupcakes from Sweet Retreat, or for a real treat, try their cookie sandwiches available in over twelve varieties.

If you want to find all things chocolate, including chocolate hearts and chocolate-covered strawberries, hop over the bridge to Chocolatier Constance Popp at 180 Provencher Blvd. Constance has handmade chocolate hearts, available in large or small sizes, which can also come in a heart-shaped box.

They’re a far cry from the standard box of chocolates at the drug store. She also makes chocolate roses, chocolate-covered strawberries and large chocolate hearts.

If you haven’t made a dinner reservation yet, Maxime’s is always a classic choice, but Harth Mozza and Wine Bar on St. Anne’s Road offers homemade pasta and family style dining, so you can indulge in the wonderful wine and a beautiful meal at the same time. Helios Restaurant on St. Mary’s Road is another great local option, offering a full menu on Valentine’s Day.

So, instead of just stopping by the mall for a card, keep it local this Valentine’s Day. Stay in St. Vital to find something that will show your special someone how much he or she means to you.

Abigail Byle is a community correspondent for St Vital. Follow her on Twitter, @abbyinitio or email her, byle104@gmail.com