By: Tandy Wickiser
Andersonians it has never been easier to show our love through supporting all things, local and unique to our hometown. Here are 7 failsafe options that are sure to put a smile on your sweetheart’s face. No matter your budget you can easily impress your sweetheart with local Anderson flair. Have fun exploring all we have to offer and Happy Hunting for the perfect gesture of your love.
1. Cards
There is nothing more thoughtful than a beautiful card. It must include a handwritten note. Hear me men, not just your signature! I can guarantee those words from the heart will be the most precious of gifts. That card will be tucked away and cherished for years to come. Better yet, write a love letter and add it to your card. Nothing could be more special than honest words from the heart. Lighter Note in downtown Anderson has beautiful options as well as stationary and paper goods. Propp Drugs also never fails to stock the most beautiful cards.
2. Chocolates and Treats
Sweets for your sweetheart is a long tradition.
CocoBon is offering a 14 piece heart shaped box for $33.99 and their famous chocolate covered strawberries for $3.99 each. Northern Suga is offering strawberries, their famous chocolate covered apples, smash chocolate hearts, popcorn and chocolate covered pineapple, y’all! You can, of course, never go wrong visiting The Sweetery. Don’t miss the Ugly Cake. The Kitchen Emporium can put together a show stopping basket for you full of local treats. Figs Farmacy can help you put together a basket of local treats as well. Make sure to treat yourself to an ice cream while you are there.
3. Flowers
Flowers, I mean who doesn’t love flowers?
Selah Floral Studio, I believe, is our newest local floral store front. Show them some love. They are offering an assortment of bouquets for $45. You can’t go wrong with any of our local florists. Just remember to order early and local. My go to florist is Honey B. She is featuring heart topiaries for $22 with free delivery to local schools.
4. Wine and Dine
The long and short of it is that you can’t mess up with any of our local special occasion restaurants. There is no need to head to Greenville anymore. We are blessed to have it all local and let’s please support them.
The Local Pub and Eatery is offering a Dinner for 2 for $100. The menu looks amazing and includes appetizer, salad, entrees and dessert. The only problem is how do you choose between Surf and Turf and Seafood Lasagna? All of our local favorites for celebrating life and love will have amazing specials. I think the showstopper date night would be having a course at all our local downtown gems. Of course, keep that up your sleeve for a date night after Valentine’s Day. At Sullivan’s you can’t miss the carbonara, the bacon wrapped quail and the peanut butter pie. Summa Joe’s specials are always out of this world. Just order the special! At Earle Street the jalapeno cornbread and the buffalo shrimp are a must. They just might have the best filet in town. The Fickle Palate is the place for mussels. They are cooked with pork belly and banana peppers. I dare you not to drink the sauce. Shucks has an amazing steam tray and don’t miss the pimento cheese oysters. At Restaurant 151 how do you start to choose between Lobster Tempura, Fish Succotash and Lamb Shank? I have had them all and they are out of this world. And of course, we can’t forget The Galley with their onion rings, gyoza, cousin roll, steak and shrimp kushiyaki, seared scallops and key lime pie. The Bradbury Bistro is a must stop with show-stopping cocktails and coffees. The Kitchen Emporium for a glass of wine and some charcuterie.
5. Spa Treatments
The Lilia is offering some amazing Valentine’s Day Specials starting at $125. If you want to spoil your girl, choose the Cupids Holiday package for $315 which includes a Hot Stone Massage, Facial, Manicure, Pedicure and Lunch. I have been given this treat and it is a fabulous escape. Aesthetics Avenue has several specials including a $100 custom facial, Free SkinMedica gift set with a $200 gift card and $100 off lip filler.
6. Experiences
Making memories is alway an excellent choice.
The Anderson Arts Center is offering a pottery class for $50 per couple. The Anderson County Museum is offering a Valentine’s Day Craft for ages 6 and up. CityScape Winery is hosting a Wine and Chocolate Pairing Feb. 9 to 12. This event is a steal at only $24.95 per person and includes seven wines paired with chocolates and a signature glass. How about a season ticket to the Electric City Playhouse for only $55 each? You can gift your sweetheart five dates as they have five shows this year. The Growler Haus has your man covered with a beer and chocolate pairing on Feb 11 for $40 per couple.
7. Embellishments
We all love to embellish our spaces, our wardrobe and, of course, our jewelry boxes. Check out Hampton Furniture for Furry pillows and blankets for $19 and $35. Smoore Boutique is hosting a Galentine’s Event on Feb. 9th with big giveaways. Phil’s is featuring 20% off most items. The Bee Hive has my favorite Julie Vos, heart sweaters and so much more. Check out Friends for beautiful pottery. Whether you choose Cahaly’s, Tracie Star, Collectique, Honey Hush, Maren and Main, or Layne and Gray you can find that perfect special item to embellish your loved one’s life!