by Leah Reed Forbes
Chocolate and roses are classic, but true romance lies with a little imagination. Being a great gifter isn’t about how much you spend, and when we say it’s the thought that counts, what we really mean is that a great gift is given with intention, saying, “I see you, and I know what you love.” Here’s how to find the best Valentine’s Gifts in Joburg, because to be loved is to be seen.
Engage the Senses
There’s a new fragrance kid on the block, and for the fragrance lover in your life, Byntondo by Sibs Matiyela is hitting all the right notes. Handmade in Johannesburg using African botanicals, Byntondo invites you to discover sanctuary through scent with their indulgent body butters, perfumes, and room sprays to set the mood.
Lingerie Lovers
Spice things up with a handmade set of lingerie by Sealemon Intimate Apparel. Truthfully, this is a gift for both of you, and if you’re lucky, it will end up where it belongs this Valentine’s Day: on the floor.
The Adventurous Cook
If you’re hinting at a delicious home-cooked meal this Valentine’s Day, this gift will become a staple in the kitchen. It’s called the Great African Grater, and you can find them at the Rosebank Sunday Market or shop online here. If that feels too simple, you can always snag a pair of Le Creuset mugs and leave a card that says “you’re my cup of tea.”
The Dopamine Decorist
If you love a gift no one else has, check out Sunset Soda. They stock furniture designed to brighten and delight, and it’s all made right here in Joburg. Their range of cushions is sure to bring a smile to the face of any lover of colour in your life.
The Water Baby
Nothing says lux (and love) quite like a Mungo towel. Handmade in Plettenberg Bay, Mungo uses traditional weaving techniques to create long-lasting pieces that will have you booking a trip to the beach just to show it off. They also make linen gowns for the ultimate spa-at-home sensation. Order online or pop into their shop at 44 Stanley.
The Movie Buff
The Bioscope has a range of vintage movie posters and selected artworks for the movie lover in your life. Bonus points if you get them tickets to see a movie at the coolest private cinema in Joburg (or rent out the theatre for a private viewing). They’re located at 44 Stanley.
The Flower Lover
Leave the petrol station bunches to wilt, and plan ahead. Petal and Post will deliver a spectacular local posy to blow their socks off and make them the envy of the office. If you want to level up, you could make Valentine’s Day a monthly event with a subscription from Wildflower Farm.
If they’re all about the experience, you could take them to pick their own bunch at Femme Petale Flower Farm, because while flowers may fade, the memories (and Instagram snaps) last forever.
The Plant Lover
Flowers wilt, but a plant lover wakes up in the morning and looks for new leaves. Instead of a bouquet, you could opt for a living organism to represent your love. The Gardenshop at the newly unveiled Nine Yards centre is a great place to explore indoor plants, and you can ask their friendly staff about plants that are hard to kill. Also located at Nine Yards is Acquature Living Art, for next-level terrariums.
The Bling Babe
If you’re looking for a more classic Valentine’s gift, you can’t go wrong with a stunning piece of jewellery. Dear Rae create unique, heirloom pieces that will make even the fussiest jewellery fan fall in love.
DIY Vouchers
Gifting can be tricky if you’re not that way inclined, but that’s no excuse for low effort. You can make a DIY voucher for a shopping spree at their favourite market, or for a massage at home if you’re on a tight budget. Effort doesn’t have to be expensive, but they’ll be enamoured with you taking matters into your own hands and showing them you really put in the time this Valentine’s Day.
Chocolate Is Classic For A Reason
You want to be basic. Fine. Choose from a range of South African artisanal chocolates this Valentine’s Day so it doesn’t look like you popped into Woolies on a last-minute whim.*
The Chocolatiers create each batch of chocolates fresh and prepare them for overnight delivery nationwide, and you can find them at Uncle Joe Florist and Gifts Denmyr Centre, 65 7th Street, Linden, in a pinch.
Rrraw Chocolate is vegan chocolate made in Africa, and handmade with cocoa sourced all over the continent. They’re available at 25 locations in Johannesburg, so check out their website to find out where to get your paws on it.
*Though, if you must be mainstream, we've got a list of the new Valentine's Day treats at Woolworths here.
