Eco-friendly and heartfelt: Homemade & handpicked Valentine's Day gifts

Valentine’s Day is all about showing love and appreciation to those who matter most, but it doesn’t have to come with a hefty environmental footprint. You can be eco-conscious and celebrate love in a way that’s kind to the planet too! Ditch the mass-produced, plastic-wrapped gifts and opt for homemade or handpicked items that are personal, meaningful, and sustainable.

Here’s our 10 favourite eco-friendly Valentine’s Day gift ideas:

1. Handmade candles with natural ingredients

Candles are a classic Valentine’s gift, but many store-bought options come in plastic containers and contain synthetic fragrances and chemicals. Instead, make your own with eco-friendly materials! Beeswax, soy wax, or coconut wax are all excellent options. You can infuse them with natural scents like lavender, vanilla, or cinnamon, and even personalise the scent to match your partner's favourite aromas.

Tip: For a unique touch, try repurposing old jars, tea cups or glass containers to pour the wax into. You’ll have a beautiful, zero-waste gift with a personal twist.

2. A handwritten love letter or poem

Sometimes the best gifts come from the heart, not from a store. A handwritten letter or poem can be an incredibly meaningful and sustainable gift. Take the time to write about what makes your relationship unique, recalling your favourite memories together, or simply telling your partner how much they mean to you.

Tip: Use recycled paper or plantable paper that can later be grown into flowers or herbs for an extra touch of eco-consciousness!

3. DIY bath soaks or scrubs

Create a spa-like experience at home by making your own bath soaks or scrubs. Mix up ingredients like Epsom salts, dried rose petals, or lavender buds for a relaxing bath experience, or create a sugar scrub with organic sugar, coconut oil, and essential oils. You can even personalize the ingredients based on your partner's favourite scents or skin care needs.

Tip: Package them in reusable glass jars or tin containers to keep it sustainable.

4. A succulent or herb garden

For a gift that grows, give the gift of a small potted succulent or herb garden. Succulents require minimal care and last for years, while a herb garden can provide fresh ingredients for cooking. These gifts are especially ideal for eco-conscious couples who love to garden or cook.

Tip: You can handpick the plants from a local nursery or even propagate them from your own collection. Consider planting them in upcycled containers, such as old teacups, wooden boxes, or mason jars.

5. Custom reusable cloth items

Sustainability starts with making small changes in everyday life, and reusable cloth items are a fantastic way to show love while cutting down on waste. Whether it’s a set of hand-sewn cloth napkins, a personalised tote bag, or a set of hand-embroidered handkerchiefs, these thoughtful gifts can help your loved one reduce their reliance on single-use plastics.

Tip: Use organic cotton or one of our Fairtrade bags for added eco cred.

6. A handpicked nature experience

Rather than buying a store-bought experience, consider giving your partner the gift of time together in nature. Plan a romantic nature walk, hike, or picnic in a local park. Handpick wildflowers along the way or bring a basket of homemade treats like organic cookies or sandwiches. The best part? It’s a sustainable experience that helps you both connect with each other and the environment.

Tip: Use compostable resealable bags and compostable cling wrap to kept your snacks fresh and make sure you leave no trace by cleaning up after yourself.

7. Zero-waste gift sets

Put together a personalised zero-waste kit with items that help reduce everyday waste. This could include a reusable coffee cup, stainless steel straws, fabric tote bags, beeswax wraps, compostable kitchen essentials, compost caddy and liners, and a bamboo toothbrush. These practical yet thoughtful gifts are not only useful, but they also show that you care about the environment as much as you care about the person you're gifting them to.

Tip: Save time and money by purchasing a pre-prepared zero-waste gift set fill out shopping and kitchen essentials from our website (you’ll find them under Bulk Deals).

8. Handmade jewellery with recycled materials

If you’re feeling crafty, consider making a piece of jewellery using upcycled materials or recycled metals. This could be a bracelet, necklace, or even a pair of earrings made from old buttons, beads, or pieces of metal you have lying around. You can also use sustainable materials like wood or glass for a unique, eco-friendly touch.

Tip: Make sure your packaging matches your eco-efforts by using a cute little reusable drawstring bag to wrap your gift.

9. A love story photo book

Compile your favorite photos together and create a DIY photo album or scrapbook that tells the story of your relationship. This personal and creative gift can be both nostalgic and sentimental. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to repurpose old photos that may be tucked away in a drawer.

Tip: Look for photo albums made from recycled paper or other sustainable materials to keep the eco-friendly vibe going.

10. Donate to a cause they care about

If your partner is passionate about a particular cause—whether it’s wildlife conservation, climate action, or social justice—consider making a donation in their name. This thoughtful gesture shows that you support what matters most to them and have taken the time to make a meaningful contribution.

Tip: Our personal fav is Trees That Count and they’ll provide a beautiful e-card to mark the occasion. 

Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to show love, not only for the special people in your life but also for Papatūānuku (mother nature). By choosing to create or handpick gifts that are sustainable, thoughtful, and personal, you can make the day even more memorable.