Looking for the perfect gift for Valentine’s Day? You can’t go wrong with traditional gifts of flowers, candy, or lingerie. Even if you aren’t involved right now, it’s a good day to remember your single friends or a sister that you might have neglected during your last fling.
Here’s a guide to get you started. (Please see sidebar for all listings.) Many of the stores listed even accept phone orders for those that leave everything to the last minute!
Galatea
What woman doesn’t like lingerie? The right bra and panty set can instantly make a woman feel more confident and desirable.
At Galatea Lingerie, 1224 Washington St., Hoboken, there is a wide selection of underclothes in many sizes with styles to fit every mood. The owner Diane Stiglich opened the boutique over 18 years ago. Stiglich is a careful shopper; you won’t find typical department store brands in her store.
Instead, she handpicks designers from Italy, France, and Spain. Not only does everything look good, it feels good on.
The bras are made from silk, lace, and cotton, or sometimes a combination of the three. There are many different styles including: fitted, underwire, push-up, tank top variety, and more.
The panties come in bikini, boy shorts, thongs, and even a specialty thong that is designed to not ride up. All come in a sea of colors. The store is even pleasantly arranged by color to make shopping easier.
Some of the designers include: Lormar, Cosabella, Simone Perele, Aubade, Hanky Panky, Eberjey, and Giulio. But it’s not just underwear. Galatea carries sleepwear, intimate apparel, European clothing and bath items. Bath items include: L’Occitane soaps, lotions, and perfumes.
They carry Lollia candles, lotions, and drawer liners that all smell great too.
There is even something for the man in your life as they recently began carrying boxers, briefs and pajamas for men.
The friendly staff will gladly answer questions and help you find the perfect gift.
All major credit cards are accepted and the shop is open seven days a week. The hours are: Monday through Friday from 12 to 8 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday from 12 to 5 p.m.
Al Richards Chocolates
What says “I love you” like chocolate?
Al Richards Chocolates, 851 Broadway in Bayonne, takes specialty chocolates to a whole new level. Walking into the store, you are greeted with the delicious aroma of chocolate and shelves full of eye-catching boxes that change every holiday.
The chocolate, which can be filled or solid, is absolutely fabulous! It is made fresh daily on the premises. One bite and you’ll see why fresh is best.
According to Rich Saslaw, owner, not every place makes the fillings even if they make the topping. Saslaw insists on quality, so he makes everything from scratch.
The chocolate comes in milk, dark, white, and sugar-free varieties for those who are watching their weight. There are many fillings including: jelly, creams, nuts, fruit, peanut butter, coconut, or caramel.
The decadent truffles are available in milk, dark, raspberry, amaretto or cappuccino flavors. Other items include: cookies, chocolate covered pretzels, chocolate covered strawberries, and bars of chocolate. The chocolate can be ordered by the pound and can be wrapped.
For the holiday, there are heart shaped boxes in designs for men and women. Items can be delivered and even shipped out of state.
All major credit cards are accepted and the store is open six days a week. They are open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. They will have extended hours until 8 p.m. on Feb. 12, 13, and 14. For more information, please visit: www.alrichardschocolates.com.
Say it with flowers
If you are not sure what to give but want to say something, one long stem rose is a good bet. According to Mt. Carmel flower shop in Bayonne, a single rose is popular for a date.
It is also becoming more common for women to order flowers for men. They will accept orders over the phone with a major credit card. While it is best to pre-order, it is still possible to order flowers on the big day.
CarolynLiv.com accepts orders by the phone or over the internet. They have a studio in Hoboken but not a store. They specialize in artful flower arrangements in a keepsake box or vase and also make custom arrangements. The flowers must be pre-ordered for delivery out of the area, but there is free delivery in Hoboken.
Although a dozen roses is still the most popular item on Valentine’s Day, customers looking for something a little different can order a mixed flower arrangements or an exotic plant.
GIFT GUIDE
All Occasion Florist, fresh flowers and plants, Hoboken, (201) 714-9720
Al Richards Chocolates, assorted fresh chocolates and gifts, Bayonne, (201) 436-0915
Beethhoven’s Veranda, fresh flowers and plants, Hoboken (201) 217-3919
CarolynLiv.com, Specialty flower arrangements, Hoboken, (201) 892-9879
Galatea Lingerie, lingerie, bath items, sleepwear and clothing, Hoboken, (201) 222-0606
Mt. Carmel Florist, fresh flowers and plants, Bayonne, (201) 339-1917
Sacalis Florist, fresh flowers, plants, fruit, gourmet food, and gift baskets, Bayonne, (201) 437-1300
Vera’s Florist, fresh flowers and plants, Hoboken, (201) 798-4661