
I have to admit, as a florist, Valentine's Day gets brushed under the rug in our house. We start thinking about this day between Thanksgiving and Christmas. I know--retail. We place our flower order before New Year's and by the time we're all said and done with pop ups and deliveries, we're tuckerd out and ready for Spring.
But not this year! I am making it a goal to be intentional and celebrate the holiday that we've personally neglected for 8 years. Afterall, a florist needs to be given flowers too, right? That's why I have compliled five date ideas for how we can be more festive this Valentine's Day and support some local business in Springfield, MO too!
Book a Valentine Photo Session at Lightbox
Lightbox goes above and beyond for the holiday sets but this Valentine set is my FAVE! The soft pinks, disco balls + silk flowers (by yours truly) make for such festive + effortlessly fun photos. Bring you gal pals, pup or valentine in for a session in front of this backdrop. Pro Tip: Add on the prop closet rental to use any of their Valentine colored paper backdrops--we love the brick red! Plus, Portrait Novella is hosting mini sessions, but spots are limited so hurry hurry!

Grab your Valentine a card from Culture Flock
Culture Flock is known for having a wide variety of gift ideas but we personally love their card selection! We tend to go home with a few to hold on to for later because there are just so many to choose from. You can also shop online--here's one we love!
P. S. We find it a fun activity to shop for cards together!
Pick up cupcakes from Becky Bakes
Becky is always amazing us with her hand piped flowers and custom cake themes. But her Valentine offerings this year are going to be the cherry on top of your date night. She also has heart shaped cakes with vintage piping if you’re feeling iconic.
Order via the form in her instagram bio: @beckybakes417 or see the form here!

Order your sweetie FLOWERS!
Sorry, but how could we not? Our offerings this year are for the nontraditional. We dreamed up all things romantic with muted tones like Chocolate Listanthus and that true bubble gum pink we love this time of year from glorious Garden Roses. Level up your order with Askinosie chocolate + a P.F. Candle Co. Candle which come with a custom GGF matchbox. So pretty much a one stop shop! Orders will close the week before Valentine’s Day; don’t wait–order now!
Contrast Therapy at Counter Negative
Spice things up and try contrast therapy this Valentine's Day! You'll get a room to yourself with a cold plunge tub (set at a chilly 46 degrees) and a cozy steam sauna. We have a new found love for contrast therapy. Amongst many benefits like reducing stress and inflammation, we look forward to is the mood boost afterwards! Try it with your partner or pals this year for a unordinary bonding activity. There are many places in SGF, but we've tried Counter Negative and really enjoyed our experience!
Bonus Idea: Galentine’s Day at El Patio 5:30-8 PM
On February 13th or Galentine’s Day, head to the Rountree neighborhood with your gals! First, stop at Tea Bar + Bites for pie, cookies, cheesecake + drinks. Then walk across the patio to The Local Bevy where you’ll decorate candles. (Make sure to message ahead of time to reserve your spots.) Once you're full and have had your fill of decorating, stop at Laurel Spa & Lash Studio located at the back of the patio for mini facials, massages, brow services and lash tinting. After you’ve been pampered, stop back in to Tea Bar + Bites to build a bouquet from us at our flower bar on your way out!

And there you have it. One reason we love Springfield so much is that it’s always hopping with opportunities to support local in any season. Don’t let this February pass by without stopping to intentionally support local + having a cozy holiday in return.