Words by Marissa Oswald

For him: 

Now that your boyfriend has already made the transition from hipster to gentleman, we’ve got some tips on how to set your man in the right mood with just the right music and booze. Creep Records in the Piazza has a great collection of vinyls including Pet Sounds. While you’re at Creep, check out their private Valentine’s day sale events. Details are posted daily on their Facebook accounts up until the the 14th!

If you’re from Philadelphia, then you probably like beer. And you’ll LOVE this locally brewed beer.  Released three days ago, Yard’s bottled version of their deliciously dark Love Stout will hit the spot. A gift that’s exclusive, lovely, and timeless- just like your relationship. (The Foodery)

For her:

Big tip: our friend Sarah Lewis from Adorn Boutique has the most beautiful baubles in the city. From now until the 14th, take full advantage of her Valentine’s Day sale and get your girl some handmade, hyper-local jewels that are guaranteed to make her happier than any run-of-the-mill stuff from Tiffany’s. 

Another tip: Girls love wine. Girl loves chocolate. The locally-made Spodee combines the two and is available in most liquor stores in Philadelphia. Continue to set the mood with more vinyl from Creep Records; a new Amy Winehouse re-release of Lioness: Hidden Treasures is a welcomed treasure in any vinyl collection. 

To share:

For newly-found lovers: take your boo over to our absolute favorite cafe in the city: One Shot (think ‘what if Free People opened a coffee shop on a corner in Northern Liberties?’) and test out a seasonal selection of couples-themed drinks: the John and Yoko is a blueberry white hot chocolate, the Ellen and Portia is a yerba mate latte with local honey. If you’re just looking for a sweet lil’ something, One Shot sells Wondermade marshmallows in many flavors- we suggest Guinness for him, and Rose Raspberry for her. 

For the long-term lovebirds:

If you’re willing to spend a little bit of dough, then you might as well take your sweetie to Kimpton’s Hotel Palomar in Center City for an evening. You can enjoy breathtaking skyline views, whirlpools, animal print bathrobes (seriously), and a hosted wine reception in the evening. And with top-rated restaurant Square 1682 on the first floor (as well as a slew of others within walking distance) and Rittenhouse two blocks away, it might be hard not to re-fall in love with your beau.

Related Reading: Love Songs That Last for Valentine’s Day! The perfect V-Day Playlist.

Words by Marissa Oswald
www.streetsandstripes.com