We will again be celebrating our love for one another this year on Valentine’s Day, as we do faithfully each year on February 14th.  Even though the theme always stays the same, the special gifts you present to your most loved ones definitely don’t have to! So, this is the year to shake off the last minute flowers or candy you’ve had on repeat for the past however many years and go for a unique approach.  And there’s no better place to find unique gifts in Omaha than our local boutiques!

Offering an ever-changing selection of items you can’t find anywhere else, boutiques are the go-to sources for that special something you can’t quite put your finger on until you see it.  Also, they offer a “style sanctuary” for all shoppers, not just the savvy or adventurous ones but also the ones that need a little (or a lot!) of expert assistance.  Boutiques allow you to view what’s on trend, they always carry the most fantastic seasonal staples, and boutiques are also are well known for providing a high level of personalized customer service for their patrons.  The staff are always friendly, helpful and well versed in the items they carry, so if you’re curious about something or in the midst of a tough decision you are welcome to ask them plenty of questions (Think: “Will this shrink?”, “Does this run true to size?”, “Do you think he/she will like this if they also like…?”, “What have your other customers thought of this?” and so on).  Many local boutiques also carry items from local vendors, which is a nice touch too—anytime you can buy gifts while maximizing your support for our local economy it’s a win-win!

You might have the initial reaction to avoid a boutique if you don’t know the exact size or style preference of the target of your affection, but here’s why you shouldn’t:  Even boutiques that are popular for their stylish selection of clothing also likely carry a decent selection of accessories.  It’s not uncommon to find perfume, handbags, scarves, hats, hair accessories, jewelry, candles, home décor items, and much more in addition to great clothing pieces.  Furthermore, there are even flexible clothing items that aren’t size specific such as ponchos or flowy tops.  If none of that hits the mark, a gift card or certificate is a wonderful excuse for the recipient to shop somewhere new.  This is not only a gift of an item they are sure to love because they picked it out, but also the gift of a fun, relaxing shopping experience. Whether it is a boutique they already love or a new spot to check out, either way it will be very much appreciated!

You may even want to go shopping at local boutiques yourself for something to wear out on the town!  If you’re looking for the perfect alternative to the traditional Valentine’s Day celebration, you’ll want to attend the 5th annual Hypnotica dinner show at the Millard Plaza Ballroom!  Along with a fun and highly entertaining hypnotic show, guests are also treated to a prime rib dinner, a chocolate buffet AND a champagne buffet, all included in the ticket price.  There is also a complimentary photo booth and a DJ, so everyone is welcome to continue the party after the show and dance the night away.  It’s great fun every year for couples or groups of friends—all are welcome!

Happy Valentine’s Day to all of the lovers out there; enjoy the day and the opportunity to spread the love everywhere you go!  But don’t forget to show those important people in your life that they loved the other 364 days of the year too!