Carlee WrightValentine’s Day is just a tick away. And no matter who in your life you want to shower with affection, be it friend, partner, or yourself (it’s ok, you deserve it!), we’ve got a few ideas to help you share the love.
Little Lantern Floral from the Press Play Archive. Photo by Ben Mah.
Say it with flowers (or plants)…
Salem is home to some incredibly talented floral designs (take it from a florist’s kid!), who are changing the way we think about flowers.
Little Lantern Floral aims to “support American-grown, locally farmed and mindfully foraged flowers, while also supporting the world around us.” You may remember reading about designer Jodi in a past edition of Press Play. She was our cover girl for issue 4. (Missed it? You can find the story here). Jodi has a unique touch and brings an artful approach to her creations no matter the size. Order something special, or give a gift that keeps on giving — a floral subscription. Learn more at https://www.littlelanternfloral.com/
New kid on the block, er alley, Flowers in the Alley designer Clayton Riley “aims to educate and excite clients and customers of all backgrounds with the delights and simple joys of floral design and home curation.” In his shop, you’ll find flowers that capture nature’s simplistic perfection, plus home and garden items. See for yourself at 249 Liberty St. NE Ste 130 (alley entrance) or online at https://www.facebook.com/flowersinthealley/
If looking for something on the greener side (or maybe a flowering plant), check out The Sun Bear Den in the Reed Opera House on the corner of Liberty and Court; https://www.thesunbearden.com/ or Windowsill Salem, 2195 Hyacinth St NE; https://www.windowsillsalem.com/. Each of these shops features a lovely lush selection of enticing greenery.
Say it with food…
“The people who give you their food give you their heart.” — Cesar Chavez
Epilogue Kitchen & Cocktails knows food. Drawing on diverse cultural influences, they craft delicious, thoughtful dishes that have reinvented comfort food. Their special Valentine’s Day 2021 offering features a three-course meal available for couples and singles with options for those who are vegan or gluten-free. The dinner for couples includes wine for those 21 and older, but they can accommodate those who are alcohol-free or not-yet-21. Available 4 to 9 p.m, February 12-14. Pre-order is required. View the complete menu and order online at http://epiloguekitchen.com/
Bearscat Bakehouse has a sweet treat in store — a dozen heart-shaped donuts! $20 gets you 6 big hearts and 6 mini filled hearts. Must be preordered by Feb. 10 and picked up on Feb 13 only. (see a pic of the goods here) Call the shop to place your order — 503-569-6871
Salem on the Edge from the Press Play Archive.
Say it with art…
Though art may be subjective, Salem sources have the market pretty well covered when it comes to finding something local, unique and handmade.
Make it a date night and check out the February feature at Salem on the Edge — Erotica: An Exhibition to Arouse. It features a varied collection of art made by locals and reflecting a genre that has long been part of human history and experience. Learn more in our feature story. 156 Liberty Street NE; http://salemontheedge.com/
Ernie & Gray features fine art & functional craft from delightful ceramics and unique jewelry to paintings of all sizes, styles and mediums all from Pacific Northwest artists. Learn more in our feature story from last year, then check it out yourself. 329 State Street; https://www.ernieandgray.com/
Check out the Bush Barn Art Center Online Marketplace organized by Salem Art Association and offering another way for people to support local artists and keep the arts thriving in our communities. They even have a specially curated section of Valentine recommendations. Visit the marketplace here.
Truffle Shuffle Salem from the Press Play Archive.
Say it with chocolate…
Truffle Shuffle Salem makes delightful (and adorable) hand-rolled truffles in a variety of traditional and unique flavors that are perfect to savor, pair and share (you better buy extra). While they don’t have a brick-and-mortar location, you can arrange pick-up or get delivery for a fee (it’s free if you order more than $20. *hint*hint*) https://truffleshufflesalem.com/
Charcuterie Boards and Sweets. Submitted photo.
Say it with charcuterie…
Looking for something a little different? Charcuterie Boards and Sweets aims to create an experience. Perfect for a Valentine’s Day (or anyday!) at home, they have teamed up with Truffle Shuffle Salem (you know, you read about them just above) to create a special for V-Day weekend that includes truffles — yum! Preorder is recommended. Visit their Facebook page for all the details (including more delicious photos) and info on how to order. https://www.facebook.com/charcuterieboardsandsweets/
Say it with the support of Salem…
Dust off your dictionary and visit with the cast of Pentacle Theatre‘s 2012 production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee live on Zoom 8 p.m. Sunday, February 14. Spelling Bee is a hilarious musical theater gem with great opportunities for actors with strong improv skills. The original cast (minus one) is coming together – virtually – to reminisce about the show’s most memorable moments. This free event will close with a timely and topical spelling bee led by cast member Tom Hewitt. Click here to register.
Catch Reel Love with True North Duo, a virtual concert benefiting Salem Cinema 7 p.m. Sunday, February 14. True North Duo is the folk-bluegrass combo of award-winning singer/songwriter Kristen Grainger joined by multi-instrumentalist and singer/songwriter Dan Wetzel. Cost is $15 per person. Tickets are available now at salemcinema.com. Learn more about True North in our Press Play feature story here.
Rofe Designs & CreativiTee from the Press Play Archive.
Say it with something more…
Beyond flowers and chocolate, if you want something that stands out, unusual or customized, check out one (or all) of these local shops.
At Rofe Designs & CreativiTee you will find a cool selection of small gifts PLUS you can create your own! So make it a date and get crafty with your Valentine. Reserve a time online here https://creativiteespace.com/, then pop in at 110 Commercial St NE.
The Awkward Peach Boutique features a fun collection of band tees, stickers, pins and more! Find them in the Reed Opera House and at https://www.theawkwardpeach.com/
Looking for something customized? You want The Freckled Bee. Not only do they have an awesome selection of kid’s stuff, but bring them your favorite handwritten note, recipe, artwork, etc. and they can engrave it on a cup, planter, keychain, cutting board or more. Check them out on the corner of Liberty and State or online at https://www.facebook.com/thefreckledbeeco/
Furbish, A Salvage Place is brimming over with unique items sure to make a house a home (and maybe even your own personal oasis.) From vintage finds to a variety of furniture, there’s something to see in every nook and cranny. Stop by 1185 12th St SE.
Do you have a favorite Salem business we should know about? Let us know! Shoot us an email at hello@pressplaysalem.com
Anne Lapour
