The Art of Romantic Gift Giving

Is Cupid in your corner this year? Saint Valentine’s Day is just around the bend and for those who believe in L-O-V-E (or not!) here’s a few creative ways to support local artists — or be one yourself — and make the most out of one romantic day.

The cliché of flowers may run a different angle if you’re Chris Belleau of Belleau Gallery. His hand-blown glass roses are a perfect gift for the blossom lover. For a more ‘heart’ felt offering, he also crafts unique glass hearts that make beautiful keepsakes. 424 Wickenden St, Providence. 401-456-0011, gallerybelleau.com

For another artistic twist on a classic, check out DEMI Artistic, an emerging artist from Providence. Select one (or several…) small floral paintings on February 12 (one night only) at the Courthouse Center for the Arts at a special Valentine’s Day price. DEMI is taking orders for special flowers if you would like to make advanced purchases.  They’ll be available for pickup at Amy’s Place on Wickenden on February 13 — just in time for that special someone. She recently added Monarch and Alexandra Birdwing butterfly waterproof sculptures to her collection. They make a wonderful additions to succulents or garden arrangements. Amy’s Place, 214 Wickenden St, Providence. 401-274-9966, DEMIArtistic.com, Courthousearts.org

Considering a special piece of jewelry? Local 3U Design Studios has a variety of hand embossed fashion bangles.  With several design patterns, “LOVE,” “Touching Hearts” or “XOs” are well worth the investment. 508-695-2551, 3Udesignstudios.com

For a statement piece of jewelry with a luxe bohemian vibe, Katima Jewelry has that special adornment your lady will love. These distinct necklaces are made of semi-precious stones, antique trade beads and unique ornamentations sourced from places like Tibet, Nepal and Africa. Get one before Valentine’s Day for a special holiday discount. 401-439-1612, KatimaJewelry.com

For a more permanent choice, Urban Artifacts Tattoo is running a special on tattoos from now until Valentine’s Day. Buy one and get one half-off or choose a small cursive name, and get the other name free. 1882 Smith St, North Providence. 401-432-6484, facebook.com/Urbanartifactstattoo

Let’s not forget about the card. It’s a big deal! StudioLolo2, created by a local Warren artist Laurel Gaylord, is running a special on multiple Valentine’s Day cards for those of you with multiple Valentines. etsy.com/shop/StudioLolo2

Another local artist, Phil Ayoub, founder of Bow Ties Greeting Cards and other gifts, has some wildly wicked cards that will fit any occasion. He just released some brandy new designs for the realist-romantic in you. Hope Artiste Village, 1005 Main St, Pawtucket. 401-641-1116, BowTiesGreetingCards.com

Wanna include the family in a day of fun and education? The Providence Children’s Museum is having a “Heart Smart” event on February 13 and 14. Learn about the heart with activities, anatomy lessons and more. 100 South St, Providence. 401-273-5437, ChildrenMuseum.org

Live music — yes! Spend an evening at The Park Theatre where The Beach Boys will provide a special St. Valentine’s performance. Tickets can be purchased with or without a special dinner buffet prior to the concert. Parking is free. 848 Park Ave, Cranston. 401-467-7275, ParkTheatreRI.com