By EMILY WALOS 

As Valentine’s day is just around the corner, the stress of finding that perfect gift may be creeping in, however there are many Redlands’ small businesses that can help. During this time of the COVID-19 pandemic it is critical that small businesses are supported; by shopping locally one can beat the large crowds at the larger retail stores, such as Kohls and Target, and get quality products on safer and faster terms. 

Here are some businesses in Redlands that are selling specific Valentines Day items, some are still taking Valentines day orders, which will make for that thoughtful, special gift for you or your Valentine. As a reminder please order or shop as soon as possible to allow for a smooth holiday. 

Clarity Candles

Let the smell of love fill the room on Valentine’s Day with a gift from Clarity Candles. This small business owned by, Redlands East Valley, senior, Brooklyn Fashempour is selling limited edition Valentine’s candles with the 4 different scents called Be Mine, XOXO, Cupid’s Arrow, and Rose’s are Red. Other candle items available for purchase include her newest collection Salt Air and Honeydew, Ginger Coconut and Amber, Woody Leather and Brandy, and many more. Shopping is still currently open for Valentine’s Day. 

4 oz candles are recommended by Fashempour as “they are so small and cute, but, the 8 oz size makes perfect gifts as well.” 

Order type: Locally in Redlands for pick up, shipping, pre-order 

How to order: Online by going to claritycandles.shop/ 

Yayi’s Yums

Looking for a business to hit that sweet tooth? Well Yayi’s Yum owned by Valerie Alfaro, a junior at Citrus Valley High School, has got it covered. For the holiday specifically her bakery is selling limited edition heart shaped cookies, heart shaped cinnamon rolls, and Valentine’s themed cupcakes. Her main menu also includes various flavors of cookies, brownies, cupcakes, and cinnamon rolls. She is currently taking orders until Feb. 13 and on the 14 she will only be supplying pickups. 

Order type: Locally in Redlands for pick up, pre-order 

How to order: Direct Message @yayis.yums on Instagram Or By calling (909) 665-0381

Swank Design/Swoon Home 

By having a double category store Swank Design/Swoon Home has a variety of personal items that are sure to gain a smile. Selling themed pillows, vases, candles, bath and body items and books there is sure to be just the right item fit for your important someone. Shopping for Valentine’s Day is still available. 

Raelena Vasquez, the owner of the shop, states “all of the above” when it comes to a recommendation of products. 

Having five stars on both Google Reviews and Houzz this local business will not disappoint. 

Order type: In-store and curbside 

How to order: In-store shopping Or Online by going to https://www.swankdesignhome.com/

Above the Stem

Above the Stem is the one stop shop for your traditional Valentine’s Day; as they sell various flower arrangements, chocolate, swiss chocolate, cards, bears, soap, pens, lotions, and candles. It is important to note that Above the Stem is not only selling roses but also other elegant flower arrangements containing flowers including Calla Lilies, Tuples and Ranunculus to name a few. Nevertheless don’t fret about the supply of traditional roses! According to Prerea Kapadia, the owner of Above the Stem, they “have plenty of roses” with the bouquet of “designer choice being amazing” as well. 

Focusing greatly on supporting the community Above the Stem gets most of its merchandise and materials from other local shops in Redlands. They are open for orders and walk-ins on Valentines Day as they will have their displays in the front of their store as customers can pick what they would like and have it brought to them outside of the store as a COVID precaution. 

Order type: In-store pick-up, pre-order, delivery  

How to order: In-store shopping by calling (909) 335-850 Or Online by going to https://abovethestem.com/

Emerson Fine Jewelry

Find the perfect set of jewelry to complement the beauty of your loved one this Valentine’s day. At Emerson Fine Jewelry elegant, hand crafted pieces that are sure to elevate the day. For the holiday specially they are selling the items: Silver Horizontal Bar Bracelet, Love earrings, It’s only love necklace, Puffed Heart Pendant With Diamonds, ANGÈLE 3 Mini Hearts On Chain. They are a family owned and operated business located in the heart of Downtown Redlands. They are still currently taking Valentine’s Day orders. 

Order type: In-store pick-up, delivery  

How to order: In-store shopping (Extra covid safe in store) Or Online by going to https://www.emersonfinejewelry.com/

WashingtonWildflower 

Want a more personalized touch to your gift? WashingtonWildflower has you covered. Owner, Elysse Washington hand creates every piece order, with items including one-of-a-kind home decor and embellished hair clips. Some of her Valentines pieces include a Floral heart wreath and Valentines XO set. She is still currently taking Valentine’s Day orders. 

Washington states, “I just love making one of a kind pieces for people to love.” 

Order type: Shipping and local delivery 

How to order: Direct Message @washingtonswildflowers on Instagram Or Online by going to www.etsy.com/shop/WashingtonWildflower 

Sugar Bee

Sugar, Spice, and everything nice can be found at Sugarbee Cafe & Bake Shop. For Valentines Day the bakery offered a variety of gifts including: cocoa bombs, chocolate covered strawberries, cookies, cakes, cupcakes, breakable hearts, and more. However, they are no longer taking orders for the holiday as they are sold out. However, they also sell custom cakes and cupcakes for any occasion, as well as keto, vegan and gluten free desserts.  

Order type: In-Store pick up 

How to order: online by going to https://www.sugarbeecafe.com/

Nailsbymeriel 

During these days of lockdowns, nail salons have been shut down and reopened again so now is the time to get your Valentine a manicure. Nailsbymeriel, owned by Meriel Wasbotten, offers premium manicures and gift certificates that will work as an exciting gift. The salon also offers pedicures to make for the complete nail package. Pricing ranges from 35-50 dollars. 

How to order/make appointment: Direct Message @nailsbymeriel on Instagram Or By calling (909) 528-8083 

Valentine’s Day is a day dedicated to showing the ones closest to how much they are loved and appreciated, by purchasing locally for gifts both will be achieved as well as helping the local community thrive.  These are hard times for all, allow this holiday of love to be an outlet for everyone to enjoy. 

Featured Image: Valentines Day themed art. (Art created by Emily Walos/ Ethic News Art)