Valentine’s Day is this weekend! Over the next few days the malls and post office will be jam packed with lovers looking to find a special gift for that special someone in their life. But, did you know that many local small businesses have a lot to offer for Valentine’s Day as well?

We can all do our part in supporting small business this holiday season. Kabbage is a great resource for small business because it encourages the entrepreneurial spirit through funding. Small businesses are often viewed as a risk by many big lenders; Kabbage views them as an opportunity. They provide the funds that so many entrepreneurs need to take their business to the next level. This blog is my way of supporting and encouraging the entrepreneurial spirit by highlighting some of my favorite local businesses. I hope this post inspires you to shop small this Valentine’s Day. If you, do hashtag your favorite gifts #shopsmalllove and spread the love.

I am excited to share with you three of my favorite small businesses perfect for Valentine’s Day.

Enjoy!

P.S. – I never accept commission for my recommendations. These are all business I’ve frequented and love.

Taste by Spellbound

Valentine’s Day equals chocolate and lots if it! But why settle for mediocre chocolate when you can indulge! Taste by Spellbound is located in on RT. 44 in Avon. I had the pleasure of working with the owner, Miriam, last October. She was a sponsor for my workshop, Wifey For Life, and gifted brides with the most delicious truffles. There are not enough words in the English language to explain how absolutely delicious these truffles were. If you are looking for a sweet treat for your beloved, GO SEE MIRIAM! Seriously, your sweetheart will love you forever if you bring home some of these delicious treats. Taste serves up everything from macaroons to cupcakes and yummy desert bars. The menu varies and they sell fast so make sure you stop in early

Salon Alexander

Hey Fellas, I’m going to let you in on a little secret. Women LOVE to be pampered. If you are looking for a gift for the lady in your life then you should seriously consider gifting her a service at Salon Alexander. The owner, Ashley Stone and her staff are committed to providing top-notch service in a relaxing and upscale environment. Ashley prides herself in providing resources for and education to her staff and it truly shows in their work. Extensions are super hot right now and Ashley co-owns a hair extension line! Seriously the level of creativity found in this shop is unparalleled. From avant-garde and high fashion hair and makeup to custom color and celebrity blowouts – they have something for everyone! They specialize in color correction, healthy hair extensions, blowouts, curly hair and makeup application. They are conveniently located on Rt. 4 in Farmington.

GLAM by Sassy Mouth

I am a proud GLAMbassador. If you don’t know what that means, allow me to enlighten you. I had the opportunity to get my GLAM on last year around the time I began rebranding my business. I’d just had my son and I just wasn’t feeling…glamorous. That all changed after my GLAM by Sassy Mouth shoot. First, I got my makeup done by Krystal of Krystalized Designs and then Marisa took over. She is an expert at posing, especially the curvier girls, and photographing in a way that showcases every woman’s beauty. When I got the image back from my shoot I couldn’t believe it was me. I looked like me but whoa! I was smoking hot. My confidence levels went through the roof! Since then I have been a champion of this experience. Every woman deserves this experience. It truly helps you to feel as beautiful as you look. Marisa books GLAM sessions on Wednesdays throughout the winter.

Until next time, happy planning!