Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and many couples are rushing to find the perfect present to cast a smile on their special someone. Environmentalists have a few extra factors to consider and sometimes find themselves at a loss when browsing for sustainable alternatives on holidays. If you are one of those people, look no further. There are a plethora of local creators and green businesses in St. Louis with unique gift options that will help the day feel as magical as you want it to be. All of these recommendations will be vendors at our upcoming Earth Day Festival!

AMarieEcoSew ($3-13) is a local woman-owned business we are proud to support. It sells a variety of handmade sustainable daily-use products like reusable Swiffer dusters, pet accessories, reusable paper towels, and more. For the holiday, check out Marie’s 12-pack of reusable makeup remover pads and give her business some love here.

 

 

The faith-based family business With Love ($6-30) has many options if you want to impress with a spectacular present but have a limited budget. They specialize in body care products which are handmade in small batches and free of sulfates, parabens, or other harsh chemicals you wouldn’t want near your loved ones. You can support them here!

 

 

A third notable mention is the “Best Chocolate in St. Louis” since 2008. Kakao Chocolate ($13-35) doesn’t only deserve this title for its delicious, hand-dipped truffles; it stands out with its many initiatives to help the earth. As both a Green Dining Alliance and Slow Food USA member, it has committed to ethical sourcing, zero styrofoam, and more. Additionally, all of its treats are made with “no artificial flavors, colors, preservatives or sweeteners.” You can shop on Kakao Chocolate’s website here or head to 7272 Manchester Road in Maplewood.

Another vendor we’re excited to host at this year’s Earth Day Festival is Alpacas of Troy! The staff and alpacas have worked hard to create these adorable soft dryer balls ($20-30) made of 100% alpaca fiber. They are long-lasting and help your laundry dry faster, making them an energy-efficient and natural alternative to dryer sheets. You can buy their goods online or find them at local Farmers’ Markets.

 

 

Christopher Kelly Candles ($10-25) is a local shop with the vision of a candle business that strives for sustainability and making people smile – thus every product is eco-friendly, non-toxic, and handcrafted. The wax is a blend of coconut and soy wax, and the wicks are made with only ethically-sourced wood from fruit trees in the US. Customers in St. Louis are encouraged to return their jars for future reuse and offered 10% off the next purchase if they do. Bring a sweet and earthy smell into your loved one’s home and purchase online!

 

MollyFlower Designs ($25-98) is most known for its handmade and ethically-sourced jewelry inspired by wildlife, particularly its butterfly earrings which are constructed from the real wings of butterflies who naturally pass at their farms. Purchasing a pair of these chic accessories directly supports butterfly farms and creates new use for beautiful remnants of nature. You can find the shop and pick your favorite butterfly here!

 

 

For those who are trying to lead a sustainable lifestyle, Little Cliff’s Clothing Mending Kit ($28) would be a thoughtful aid to their endeavors. Your purchase comes with a precious little recycled (and recyclable) mason jar and a helpful video tutorial so your loved one can extend the life of their wardrobe. If they don’t have time to sew themselves or aren’t so good with their hands, Little Cliff can still revive that favorite clothing piece with its repair services – just opt for a gift card! Check them out here or visit at 3208 Shenandoah Avenue.

Friends of the Rainforest is offering a sale on its adorable and helpful Protect-a-Pals, now at $40. Your purchase supports the Children’s Eternal Rainforest in Costa Rica and the organization’s environmental education programs. On top of that, One Tree Planted will plant a tree for every stuffed animal sold. It’s goodness all around! Gift your special someone a fluffy rainforest friend by clicking here or go to 1324 Clarkson Clayton Ctr #312.

 

TRIBE228 ($2.50+) is a fascinating Black-owned business that celebrates tribal culture and offers handmade African-inspired fashion. All of its pieces are carefully made with authentic African wax fabric, and the shop supports people from Togo as well as local designers by providing them a wonderful place to work. You can browse the website or feast your eyes on the clothes in person at 1168 Hilltop Dr!

 

 

 

We hope this list was helpful for you and that you enjoy the upcoming Valentine’s Day. Please look forward to the St. Louis Earth Day Festival on April 22-23 where the amazing businesses above will be vending!