Love is in the air Portland! Neighborhood businesses show love for their communities all year long. They provide more local jobs for our neighbors and donate to local causes at more than twice the rate of national chains. Now it’s your turn. Portland was recently ranked 8th Best City for Valentine’s Day so it is the perfect time to show some love to neighborhood businesses while you shop for the perfect gifts for your special someone.

5 Ways to Show Love to Neighborhood Businesses on Valentine’s Day

  1. Dazzle your loved one with jewelry. Americans will spend $5.8 billion on necklaces, earrings and other jewelry items but you don’t have to break the bank to find something special – check out these local jewelry designers.
  2. Stop and smell the roses. It is estimated that Americans will purchase 198 million of them. Find a neighborhood florist to create a beautiful bouquet for your sweetheart.
  3. Express your love with a hand-made gift or card. This year, 180 million Valentine’s cards are estimated to be sold. Make sure your gift gets noticed by shopping at a quirky neighborhood gift shop.
  4. Give the gift of experience. Valentine’s Day isn’t just about flowers and candy. 28% of those celebrating the holiday said they plan to give a gift of experience instead. If you’re looking to do something a little different, check out Portland Mercury’s list of Valentine’s Day Events.
  5. Wine and dine your darling. Have you made your Valentine’s dinner reservations yet? Don’t get left out in the cold! For a lovely meal for two, reserve a table at one of OpenTable’s Best Romantic Restaurants.

With the average American expected to spend $196 on Valentine’s Day this year, the holiday will contribute more than $27 billion to the national economy. Whatever your budget, shop and dine at neighborhood businesses – for every dollar you spend at a local business, 70% stays in Portland’s local economy. Now that’s a lot of love!

If you want to show even more love for neighborhood businesses, update your Facebook cover photo with Venture Portland’s Portland Loves Small Business banner or tell us why your favorite local businesses make you feel warm and fuzzy on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram with #pdxLOVESsmallbiz.