It’s here again.

Whether you dread the international annual celebration of romance or you decorate the front porch with heart-shaped balloons, gift-giving is de rigueur, even if you’re only spoiling yourself.

In fact, now that Christmas is far behind us, there’s really no better time to indulge in a little self-gifting.

See? Valentine’s Day is looking more attractive already.

1. LOVE LETTERS

This hand-embroidered Love Letter patch by Cork-based artist Robyn Long can be sewn onto your favourite jacket or bag so it’ll last longer than a Valentine’s card.

Buy it: €30, Boneyard Fox

2. WE HEART IT

Even if you don’t wear your heart on your sleeve, you can carry it with you in your handbag. This Love Moschino Heart Coin Purse is the perfect gift from you to you.

Buy it: €65, Brown Thomas

3. SWEET SOMETHINGS

These Punch & Fable earrings look like squashed sugar jellies and we couldn’t love them more. Handmade in polymer in the County Clare studio of Steph Sheahan.

Buy them: €36, The Glucksman Shop

4. HOMEBODIES

Newly shacked up? Mark the memory with a gorgeous handmade keepsake – this wooden sign is by Cork-based Timber Folk Store

Buy it: €16 on Etsy.com

5. IT’S A DATE

Just because you haven’t got your love life all figured out, doesn’t mean you can’t wing it in style. Keep it old school and pop date reminders and phone numbers in this fabulous notebook.

Buy it: €10.95, Kilkenny Shop

6. DRINK ME

Infused with petals of the Asian butterfly flower, Boyle’s Alchemy Colour Changing Gin changes colour from blue to pale pink when you add tonic. The science bit: it’s all to do with the movements in pH. Still, it looks rather magical.

Buy it: €24.99, Aldi

7. ROMANCE IN THE AIR

Can’t plump for a French getaway with your beloved? Light Max Benjamin’s Sous La Mer (Under the Sea) candle and be transported to warmer climes. With blue Mediterranean accords of bergamot and mandarin floating over orange blossom, fig and oleander on a base of musk and cedarwood, it’s part of a spring collection inspired by Provence. 

Buy it: €24.95 at MaxBenjamin.ie, Brown Thomas and Carraig Donn

8. IN THE PINK

Unlike, say, an unsuitable Tinder date, a cosy pink knit will never disappoint you. Make a date with this sweater on February 14th.

Buy it: €29.95, Zara, Mahon Point