Do you have plans for Valentine's Day? There are several small steps you can do to make your Valentine's Day a little more eco. Here are some of my tips:
- Get outside! This year Valentine's Day is on a Sunday, so it will be the perfect time to get outside, weather permitting. Whether this is picnicking outside, taking a bike ride together going for a walk, gardening, planting a tree, etc., try to soak up some of the fresh air.
- Visit farmers markets. If you are located in Houston visit farmers markets that are open during Valentine's weekend or day like Urban Harvest farmers market or East End farmers market. Farmers markets are also a great place to buy local gifts, like candles, plants, jewelry, etc. Here are a list of farmers markets in Houston: http://www.visithoustontexas.com/things-to-do/shopping/farmers-markets/
- Eat local. If you plan on going out to eat, choose places that source food locally or have eco building materials. Houston has such a great restaurant scene that you are bound to find something that has green aspects. You can also cook something at home, its romantic and special.
- Buy fair trade products. If you plan on buying chocolates or goodies for your partner, choose fair trade items. Most grocery stores sell fair trade chocolate or check out Ten Thousand Villages in Houston that has many different fair trade products.
- Buy plants or flowers from a local grower. Instead of buying a bouquet of flowers from the local grocery store, opt to buy a plant that will last a lot longer. Check out local farmers markets for florists and plant growers.
- Buy organic / biodynamic wine or liquor. If you can, choose to buy organic and / or biodynamic wine or liquor that you can find at the grocery store or other speciality stores. There are many affordable options out there under $25. Whole Foods and Spec's are some of my favorite places to look for alcoholic drinks.
- Shop local and / or eco.
- If you plan on buying jewelry, consider getting conflict free diamonds, jewelry made with recycled metals or vintage jewelry. Try brilliantearth.com.
- If you are going for a day of pampering, consider using eco products like Tata Harper or going to an eco salon like Organic Spa Houston or Milk + Honey (they are currently not open, but have pop up shop with eco products) .
- Visit local shops that sell items from local makers / artists like Manready Mercantile, Cactus Music and Space Montrose.
- Give Back. If you have children or just want to do it on your own make, cards for local hospitals and nursing homes. I have been doing this for years for Texas Children's Hospital. Adopt an animal for World Wildlife Fund.
- What to do in Houston on Valenetine's Day. Here are some eco and not so eco things to do in Houston on Valentine's Day:
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