With the year’s most romantic day just around the corner, love is in the air – and retailers are in full swing, with the best swag for your sweetie. If you’re looking to get a little something for the décor-lover in your life, here are my top five picks for setting the romantic vibe at home.
‘Follow Your Heart’ Pillow
Any designer can attest that there’s no such thing as too many throw pillows, and what better way to snuggle up to a message of love than with this awesome linen number. Subtle in both size and messaging, the 100-per-cent linen pillow has a simple stitched message of “Follow Your Heart.” ($75 at the Cross Decor & Design, 1198 Homer)
Heart Mylar
Whether a gift or for myself, artwork is my favourite part of décor. Specifically, local art – I love the beauty of supporting and growing the incredible art scene in Vancouver. One of the most sought-after local artists in recent years, Zoë Pawlak relocated to Montreal and opened a new studio. With an ever-growing following, her pieces remain in constant demand here at home, and everyone (including design darling Jillian Harris, whose home is shown here) seems to swoon for the Heart Mylar. A literal representation of the heart, the mixed-media pieces offer Pawlak’s signature softness with the edge of metallic detailing. Custom orders available. ($600 from ZoePawlak.com)
Hay Colour Vases
If you decide to give the quintessential Valentine’s gift every girl loves to receive – beautiful fresh flowers – you can score a few extra brownie points by opting to include a stunning vase. Hay offers a family of coloured vases, in various shapes and sizes that suit all possible bouquet needs and bring a modern twist to the traditional glass vessel. The subtle surface details add that extra little wow factor without overwhelming the main event. ($260 at Vancouver Special, 3612 Main)
Mini Hearts Tea Towels
For a super-functional gift that still says “I love you,” my current fave is this sweet little heart-patterned tea towel. Made of 100-per-cent cotton, it’s easy to wash and it wears beautifully. The best part is that your declaration of affection is refreshed every time your sweetheart gets down to work in the kitchen – definitely a gift that keeps on giving! ($22 from Nineteen Ten Home, 4366 Main)
Hawkins NY Louise Brass Bowls
They say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. Well, if you’re going to brave preparing a romantic meal at home this Valentine’s, you should consider the importance of presentation. If your current tableware is anything like mine, making plain their hand-me-down status, the Hawkins NY Louise collection has got you covered. Super simple yet ultra chic, the brass-plated exteriors offer a high-glam romance vibe, perfectly downplayed by a white enamel interior. Ranging from small side bowls to large serving bowls, you can choose to dress the whole table, or select just a few statement pieces to give the perfect backdrop to your culinary efforts. ($100-$190 from Provide Home, 1805 Fir)
