Ultimate Guide to Romantic, Local Gifts in Chicago
11/23/2021
Shopping around for romantic gifts in Chicago? As a couple of locals in love, we can tell you the good news right away: There’s no shortage of options! And the best part is that it’s totally possible to support local businesses while you’re at it, too.
Regardless of whether or not you’re a big “presents” person, there’s just something so dang sweet about receiving a thoughtful gift from your partner. Knowing that they took the time and effort to pick out something you would love is like putting your heart on a direct flight to Warm-and-fuzzy Town.
The fact that you’re on the hunt for romantic gift ideas means that you want to give your partner that warm-and-fuzzy feeling. And y’know what? We think that’s really nice. In fact, that thoughtfulness is the secret sauce that happy relationships are made of!
Luckily for you, Chicago is an enchanting city and the perfect place for a little romance. From local artisans who put their heart and soul into their craft to boutique shops that spend countless hours curating their collections to amazing restaurants with unforgettable menus to unique and fun experiences that you can enjoy together—you’re sure to find the perfect something special for your special someone.
Whether you’re spoiling your boo for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, a birthday, an anniversary, or (our fave) just because 💕—we’ve got you covered with this list of sweet (and a little spicy) gift ideas for all types of sweethearts! And mostly from local Chicago businesses, too.
Romantic Gifts in Chicago
If unwrapping the perfect gift puts a sparkle in bae’s eye, check out these local Chicago gift shops, artisans, and more. Choose something based on your partner’s personality to show that you care—it doesn’t get much more romantic than that!
For the foodie
If your partner loves getting crafty in the kitchen, why not get them some new tools and ingredients to take their passion to the next level?
Here are some local spots where you can find gifts that any chef would love, from spices to oils and more:
Or maybe they are more interested in enjoying tasty creations rather than making them? No problem! Check these places out for customizable cookies, edible arrangements, and other treats that are perfect for a special occasion:
- Katherine Anne Confections
- HowesSweet
- Sugar It Up Darling
- Molly’s Cupcakes
- O Dough! Cookie Co.
- Crumbl Cookies
For the self-care enthusiast
If you’re dating a self-care aficionado, then you know exactly what we’re talking about.
We’re talking about the person who loves to light a scented candle, put on a face mask, and relax in a bath with their favorite book and beverage.
It’s the person who values their self-love rituals and some alone time. For them, a self-care gift is the most thoughtful thing of all!
These local Chicago gift shops are where you want to go:
For the accessorizer
When you think about classic, romantic gifts, what comes to mind? Let us guess—jewelry.
It might seem cliché, but if your partner loves getting dressed up and accessorizing, jewelry is kind of a no-brainer. Plus, with just amazing local jewelry makers, you can find something truly unique!
Consider your partner’s style and you’re sure to find something perfect at one of these Chicago jewelry stores (a lot of it is handmade jewelry, which we think makes it extra special!):
- Mashallah: Funky yet elegant, trendy pieces
- Adornment + Theory: Custom rings, vintage-inspired, statement jewelry
- Glamrocks Jewelry: Bold, ‘70s-inspired handmade jewelry
- Lindsay Lewis: Unique, vintage-meets-modern jewelry
- Dear Thistle: Bright, loud, playful, ‘90s nostalgia, resin jewelry
- White Wolf Syndicate: Big, statement, gemstone, witchy/boho jewelry
- Rococo Kitsch: Funky, bold, fancy, kitschy jewelry
- Kelsey Jane Jewelry: Elegant, minimal, stackable, gold jewelry and watches
For the green thumb
Again—flowers aren’t overdone if they’re something your partner loves!
Especially if you find a really stunning bouquet (or houseplant, if that’s more your S.O.’s style!).
Flowers and plants bring natural beauty indoors and are automatic mood-boosters. Personally, we think you can’t go wrong—especially if you visit one of these spots:
For the vintage enthusiast
If you’re looking for the perfect vintage gift for your partner, this city won’t let you down! There are plenty of awesome vintage spots where you can hunt for something unique to impress your love.
Here are a couple of great vintage shops in Chicago to get you started:
For the artsy one
Does your partner love decorating your space with cool, unique art? They’re sure to love a piece created by a local Chicago artist to add to their collection.
Check out these artists and art stores:
For the lover
If you’re looking for something on the steamier side, why not give your partner some flirty boudoir photos? 😏
Picture this (no pun intended): Your partner opens a gift bag to find some beautiful framed pictures of you looking your most sensual, confident, and stunning self. Or maybe it’s an album of boudoir images that they can cherish for years to come. Their eyes light right up. Their jaw drops. They had no idea you’d snuck off to a professional boudoir session and it’s simply the greatest surprise!
No matter your gender identity, boudoir images are a fun and sexy gift that your partner is sure to love. It shows that you’re willing to put yourself out there and is a great reminder of why you fell in love in the first place—your attraction to one another!
If you’re interested in giving boudoir photos as a gift, look no further! We offer inclusive boudoir photography in Chicago that is perfect for anyone and everyone willing to give it a try. Contact NSFW Boudoir to book your session!
Romantic Things To Do in Chicago
Maybe experiences or spending time together speak more to your partner’s love language? Perfect! Let’s look at some experience gifts and romantic things to do in Chicago that’ll help you create lifelong memories together.
Dinner at a romantic Chicago restaurant
Okay, it’s pretty tough to beat a classic, romantic dinner date. And with so many incredible restaurants in Chicago, you really can’t go wrong.
Book a reso and surprise your sweetheart with a meal they’ll never forget! Order the champagne, stay for dessert, do the whole shebang.
If you’re more interested in treating yourself to some libations, check out these spots:
A night at the baths
If you’re looking for a more unique romantic experience, check out the AIRE Ancient Baths!
Inspired by ancient civilizations, these indoor baths are the perfect place to relax and unwind together. Book a massage while you’re at it to take the experience to the next level.
A romantic getaway at a hotel
If you want to spend the ultimate romantic night in Chicago, why not book a fancy hotel for a mini staycation?
Sometimes just getting out of your regular routine and space is all it takes to get the sparks flying. Surprise your partner with an indulgent evening they’ll never forget!
Some romantic places to stay in Chicago:
- Nobu Hotel
- The Publishing House B&B
- The Peninsula
- The Hoxton
- Viceroy
- Hotel EMC2
- The Gwen Hotel
- The Blackstone Hotel
Catch a live show
From live music to theatre, Chicago’s got it all! If your partner loves catching a live show, snag some tickets and prepare for an evening of entertainment.
Add a stop at a restaurant for the classic “dinner and a show” kind of evening.
A couples boudoir session in Chicago
We might be biased, but we think boudoir can be an incredible experience for couples, too!
Couples boudoir is the perfect way to get vulnerable. It’s intimate, freeing, and sure to get that romantic fire a-burnin’.
Plus, you get to create something beautiful to help memorialize this special time of your lives together. And trust us—you’re going to like what you see!
If you don’t think couples boudoir is for you, but your S.O. is someone who likes being pushed out of their comfort zone a little, consider giving them their own boudoir photography session as a gift. That way, you get something good out of it, too! 😉 Win-win!
Contact NSFW Boudoir to learn more about options for couples boudoir in Chicago or gifting a boudoir experience.
Let the Swooning Begin!
We hope you found this list of ideas for romantic experiences and gifts in Chicago helpful! In the end, the most important thing is to think about your partner and what they love most. Then, let the sparks fly!
Did we miss anything on our list? Let us know! We’d love to hear from you and learn about new places and ways to get romantic in the windy city.
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