Shop local for your love this Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day is officially here on Monday and many of you are doing your shopping today.  If you choose to wait till the day, and are looking for some out of the ordinary gift ideas, I came up with a few of my picks for a different way to show your love.

1. Adopt an animal at the Zoo. Maybe she's always wanted her own elephant? Adopt one and get a big, sloppy kiss!  On canvas, thankfully! Select elephant to adopt and then check that you want the Valentine's special. Your money goes to enhance animal habitats and contribute to the finest care possible for the animals. If Elephants aren't your thing, there are 30 animals to choose from, kiss canvas only available from elephants though!
2. A handmade item by a local artist from  The Onion Tree. This little boutique that is all things unique, and handmade is sort of tucked away where if you didn't know it was there- you might miss it. Or perhaps you've driven by, and still wonder: "what is that?"  I have been following them on Facebook and have really liked what I've seen of their selections so far. There are some talented people out there, and this is such a great place to get something for that someone that appreciates the out of the ordinary and likes to stand out a little. I really like the selection of jewelry I've seen so far. It is on my list to stop in and pick up some pieces for me very soon! Find them at Douglas and Hillside, on the north side of Douglas next to Shine Salon (another of my favorite local places).
3. Purchase two tickets to "Slice of Life" a local benefit for the Leukemia/Lymphoma Society.  Local man of the year Candidate Dan McDonald is throwing this fundraiser that will have music, appetizers, drinks and an auction all in the swanky new Abode Venue downtown.  Tickets are $60 for a couple. What a great date night idea all while raising money for a great cause.
4. Book a cooking class for the two of you at Taste and See. There are still seats available for their Valentine's evening cooking class "Eat, Learn and Love" A hands-on Sushi workshop. Your reservation gets you and your honey cooking and decorating the food together. You also get free gifts that will let you take what you've learned home with you. Reservations are strongly encouraged so get to this quick if you're interested. There are also other classes available other dates in the month if sushi, or Valentine's night doesn't work out for you. Check it out here.
 

Hope these ideas will inspire you or give you just the idea you needed for a special gift for your Valentine. Have a wonderful Valentine's Day!