Valentine’s Day is coming up, and it’s about time we turn this heteronormative holiday gay (because apparently, “Galentine’s Day” is not about lesbians??!). Whether you’re romancing a partner or showing some self-love this V-day, there’s a queer gift to give or get out there for you. All of the items on this Valentine’s Day gift guide are queer-made and/or support LGBTQ+ causes.
Wondra is an insanely talented Portland-based photographer capturing romantic, intimate, and erotic portraits indoors and out. Their virtual photoshoots defy all expectations of what can be done over FaceTime or Zoom. Book a couples shoot for you and yours or a solo boudoir session for a unique Valentine’s Day gift that will keep on giving. If posing for photos isn’t your thing, check out their print shop. (Who knew flowers could be so sexy? Emily Dickinson, probably.)
Whether you’re looking to buy your first strap-on or getting an upgrade, Wet For Her is the lesbian sex shop you’ve always wanted. While it’s marketed towards women, WFH also offers gender-affirming gear and toys for trans-masculine, trans femme, and nonbinary people. The founder, Alice Derock, has recently been working with a trans sex toy professional (what a job!) to tailor products to be more inclusive. Not sure what would put the biggest smile on her face? A gift card to an adult toy store or even a shopping trip together could be the perfect present.
The “I Heart U” bath bomb by Fragrant Jewels
Bath bombs are the perfect gift for a solo or coupled Valentine’s Day. Fragrant Jewels makes bath bombs with rings inside that come in astrological, witchy, and mystical designs. These 100% vegan bath treats are so popular with the WLW community that the Hers and Hers set of Valentine’s Day skeleton bride bath bombs sold out a month ago. Luckily for you, designs like the Wicked Siren and the Spellbook are still in stock.
If you are celebrating self-love this Valentine’s Day, a self-care date is the way to go. But what does self-care actually look like, besides bubble baths and yoga? Queer author, mental health advocate, and SELF and BuzzFeed alum Anna Borges breaks it down for you in her book, The More Or Less Definitive Guide to Self-Care.
Lingerie is a classic Valentine’s Day gift, but I think we can all agree we are so over Victoria’s Secret. Shop small this year and support a body-positive brand. Cantiq makes handmade bodysuits, thongs, bralettes, and panties for all genders and offers custom sizing, because everyone deserves to feel sexy. Even if you’re single this Valentine’s Day, some new lingerie can be a real confidence booster.
“Gal Pal Scissor Shirt” by FLAVNT Streetwear
Be that couple and snag matching Gal Pal shirts from lesbian and trans-owned streetwear brand FLAVNT. Show your Gal Pal pride in a T-shirt or crop top (the shop also offers a Gal Pals tee with scissors in the design if you really want to let everyone know). FLAVNT gives back to the community through fundraising partnerships and features LGBTQ+ models on their website and social media.
Perfume or cologne is another traditional Valentine’s Day gift, but this time, it’s queer. Butch, futch, or femme, you’ll find a signature fragrance for you and your boo at Sigil, an LGBTQ-owned brand that offers gender-neutral scents. If you’re single, don’t underestimate just how much some fancy perfume can romanticize your life.
“Angel” candle from the Valentine’s Day Collection of CTOAN Co.
Figure candles double as works of art in your home and make wonderful gifts no matter your relationship status. The Valentine’s Day collection from Black queer-owned small business CTOAN Co. features gorgeous booty and body candles that come in pink and red. The best part? $2 from every candle purchase will be donated to Forge, which supports transgender and nonbinary survivors of intimate partner violence. While the Valentine’s Day collection candles must be ordered by January 25 to arrive in time for V-Day, it just might worth giving your partner and I-O-U for a late gift for this and this artist has other options in her store.
If you’re going to give jewelry on Valentine’s Day, make it gay. Lesbian earrings are adorable statement pieces that make unique gifts. Brighten your day or that of someone you love with a pair of earrings from Hypeflower. This queer-owned shop sells both elegant accessories with gemstones and gold and kitchsy styles like bubble tea and toadstools.
Treat yourself or your partner to something sexy and show LGBTQ+ creatives some love by shopping this queer Valentine’s Day gift guide. Single or taken, you deserve all the romance on this holiday.
