Valentine’s Day 2021

By Kristen Larocque, GreenUP Store Coordinator

This Valentine’s Day is really like no other, and for that reason it may be one of the most memorable. Here at GreenUP we like to encourage folks to tone down over-consumptive holidays. Reclaim authentic sentiments from mass-produced messaging and products that all too soon end up in the landfill.  (If you want to learn more about the wasteful impacts of Valentine’s Day, click here to read our blog about “The Origins and Impacts of Valentine’s Day.”)

This year, more than ever, we all need to reclaim authentic love and redistribute some good old fashioned care and attention. Even during the pandemic, there are plenty of ways to spread the love. Here is a snapshot of our top picks found at the GreenUP Store.

Golden Treasure Maple Syrup is from Trout Creek, Ontario and has been in operation since 1994. They’ve grown over the years to over 16,000 taps and over 300 acres of maple bush in the heart of Northern Ontario. Pour it over heart-shaped pancakes for Valentine’s Day breakfast, or over vanilla ice cream for a sweet dessert!

Felted soaps by local Peterborough maker, Simply Natural Canada.

Gifting self-care and grooming products is a great way to pamper your valentine. The GreenUP Store carries bath salts, facial moisturizer and essential oil blends from Babar Too and Shantdeep. We also have beautifully hand-crafted soaps by Simply Natural Canada, Free to Be, as well as Charcoal & Rose Petals. These makers are all based in Peterborough, so you can be sure that your purchase supports a local, who may just do a little happy dance!

We are all spending more time at home so remember to set the mood, and save energy, by dimming the lights and lighting some candles. Conventional scented candles are often made with paraffin wax, which is a petroleum by-product. Instead, consider choosing soy or beeswax candles that are free from harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances. This Old Flame Beeswax Candles are made right here in Peterborough using locally-sourced beeswax and zero packaging. This gift is sure to light up the heart of your eco-conscious Valentine.

Remember that time and attention are the most precious gifts of all. When you choose experiences over material gifts you can make memories and avoid purchasing more waste-intensive stuff. If you’re looking for a low-key yet romantic option to surprise your loved one, why not order a special take-out meal from one of our amazing local restaurants? Need inspiration? Visit the “Great Eats” section of TheBoro.ca, or discover the take-out options via TheKawarthas.ca.

You can also make some special plans to get outside together this Valentine’s Day and enjoy nature with a stroll. Visit a local park or nature area and then snuggle up afterwards and get warm with some hot chocolate. Get ideas from Otonabee Conservation, Kawartha Nordic, Ontario Parks, or contact the experts at Peterborough & the Kawarthas Tourism if you want some recommendations.