“Roses are red, violets are blue, sugar is sweet and so are you.”
The classic Valentine’s day poem, which dates back to Spenser’s The Fairie Queen of 1590, was used to decorate almost every card in the 19th century, and flowers are still the most popular gift today, along with chocolates. Red roses symbolise love and respect, while violets stand for care and loyalty.
This Valentine’s Day, choose a flower-themed gift with a difference.
1. Violet bloom iPhone case, Amy Sia
This phone case features a pretty, photographic print of violets, making an attractive and practical gift. Available for Iphone 5/5s or 5c, it has a silicone interior liner for impact cushioning and an impact resistant, flexible plastic shell. Priced at £24.95, available from Amy Sia.
2. Rose and neroli scented candle, Hearth and Heritage
Give the traditional scent of English roses with this hand poured scented candle made with high quality essential oil and eco soy wax. As well as the top notes of rose, there’s also an underlying aroma of neroli (orange blossom) for a subtle floral scent. The candle comes in a heavy glass container, wrapped in tissue and packaged in a recycled box with sealed wrapping to hold the scent. £19.95 from Hearth and Heritage.
3. Silver rose jewellery, Shrieking Violet
For a twist on a traditional theme, try this silver jewellery hand made with real miniature roses. The pendant is available in several different shapes, and there’s also a bracelet, bangle and ring. Prices start at £24.95 from Shrieking Violet.
4. Art deco rose print cushion, LuLu and Luca
Add a touch of style to your home this Valentine’s Day with this art deco rose print cushion, designed by LuLu & Luca and inspired by a collection of art deco floral and geo vintage prints. It’s silkscreen printed by hand in the UK onto natural heavy weight linen, and the reverse is plain. Comes complete with a feather pad. Priced at £55, available from In Spaces.
5. Violet lamp, Living it Up
‘Violet’ is a contemporary lamp that’ll fit into any interior with its crystal base. The violet shade gives a subtle, soft ambient light to give an atmospheric glow to bedrooms and sitting rooms. It’s hand crafted and the shade is made from purple silk. Was £160, now £128 from Living it Up.
6. Rose and bee heart tin, Emma Bridgewater
This cute little heart shaped lidded tin features a bright rose and bee design and would make a perfect gift box for jewellery or handmade chocolates. Priced at £4, available from One Brown Cow.
7. English rose teapot, Sophie Allport
From designer Sophie Allport comes this pretty, delicate English Rose range, which includes mugs, plates, bowls and a teapot as well as several other items. We love this teapot, £25, which has a capacity of one litre (four cups), and is perfect for taking that early morning cuppa up to your Valentine. View the range at Sophie Allport, prices start at £6.
8. ‘Name a rose’ gift box, Getting Personal
This gift tin contains everything you need to grow a rose bush, including a packet of rose seeds named after your recipient. Complete the registration card, adding the name you wish to call your rose, and receive a personalised certificate of registry. You’ll also receive an A3 double-sided rose calendar poster. £16.99, available from Getting Personal.
9. Valentine’s rose card, Bombus
A modern take on the traditional for your loved one this Valentine’s Day, this handmade card features a delicate gold rose silhouette mounted onto a red card. It’s blank inside and comes with a matching envelope. £4.50, from Bombus.
10. Rose cake forks, Rice DK
These pretty cake forks with a delicate rose design handle are ideal for serving that Valentine’s pudding, and they’re great value at £10 for 12 forks. Available from Berry Red.