Valentine’s Day always sneaks up on us, doesn’t it? One minute it’s January and making New Year’s resolutions. The next you find yourself googling “romantic gift ideas” at the last minute. As a photographer in Los Angeles, I’m constantly inspired by how romantic the city can be. The warm pink sunsets, ocean views, coffee dates, the list goes on. So I thought I’d share some Valentine’s Day gift ideas in LA.
Whether you’re celebrating a new love, a long-term relationship, or even some self-love, these ideas should make the day feel special.
Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas in LA
Sweet Gifts
Chocolate! How can you ever go wrong with chocolate? Especially when it’s local and beautifully made. However, a box of Sees Candy always makes me happy! Or Maltesers and Galaxy if my husband made it to a British store in town!
Los Angeles has some amazing chocolatiers that feel extra thoughtful—perfect if you want something small but special. Handcrafted truffles instantly feels more personal and well thought out. Pair it with a handwritten note, and you’re already winning Valentine’s.
Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas in LA – Flowers
Flowers are classic, but a thoughtfully arranged bouquet from a local florist feels different. Many LA florists tend to create arrangements that feel artistic, modern, and very California. Soft colors, seasonal bouquets, and arrangements that feel photo-worthy… Of course I notice those things!
Go to the next level and pair flowers with a small box of artisan chocolates or relaxing candle.
Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas in LA – Thoughtful Boutique Finds
One of my favorite Valentine’s Day gift ideas is something that feels very tailor made to your person.
Los Angeles is full of cute gift shops with curated items like candles, ceramics, stationery, art prints, or little keepsakes you can’t find online. These gifts are perfect if your partner appreciates aesthetics and thoughtful details. I myself love stationary, personalized note pads and diaries, special pastel colored pens, I absolutely love things like this.
Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas in LA – Experience Gifts
As a photographer, I’m always telling clients that memories make the best gifts.
LA is an experience city, which makes Valentine’s Day extra fun. Instead of just gifting a thing, you could consider gifting time together:
- A couples’ spa day to unplug
- A sunset experience—think ocean views, Malibu vibes with a meal at Dukes
- A cozy activity you can enjoy together later (vouchers are amazing for this)
These are the moments that end up being talked about long after Valentine’s Day, and often the ones that turn into photo-worthy memories.
A Romantic Date Night Counts as a Gift Too
If gifts aren’t your thing, a thoughtfully planned date is perfect!
LA has endless options: romantic dinners, live music. Sometimes the most meaningful gift is just slowing down, dressing up a little, and being present together.
Valentine’s Day in LA doesn’t have to be over-the-top to be meaningful. A small local gift, a shared experience, or a thoughtfully planned date can say “I love you” just as much as anything extravagant.
I’m currently preparing for this years Valentine’s Day mini sessions. Perfect for a family session, just the children, or even the pets! I love these sessions. They’re fast and super cute! I always do these for my own children and we use it with their little gifts to give out to their class friends at school!
You can check out some more blogs:
Los Angeles Arboretum for a day of family fun!
