Think the two dozen roses your co-worker got delivered to her desk this morning are impressive? That's nothing compared to the gesture made by the chief mistress of Louis XV, Madame de Pompadour.
According to legend, the "highly cultured" lover of ceramics put beds of rose petals everywhere to shame when she filled her outdoor conservatory with hand-made painted, porcelain flowers and carefully scented them to match the real ones, all in preparation for a visit from her man. When she challenged Louis and the courtiers to tell the difference, the king picked a porcelain one and, discovering what it was made from, bought the "Biscuit de porcelain factory," moved it to Sèvres, just southwest of Paris, and established it as the royal manufactory in 1756.
romantic tradition
And while that was all centuries ago, the classical gesture of Miss Pompadour is still alive and well in hand-modeled roses made by that same factory. So maybe next year, head to Atelier Courbet and pick up one of these unique works instead. It's beautiful, one-of a kind and romantic -- and you don't have to worry about whether or not it's getting enough water...
Pre-ordering flowers can be the cause of many a headache. To avoid the hassle, run over to the grocery store and pick up some flowers to arrange yourself. And if you're worried about ruining the bouquet, we've got you covered with this tutorial. Head over to Valentine's Day ideas for more inspiration.
DIY Valentine Cards
Hitting the stores on Valentine's Day (or even the night before, for that matter) can be a time-consuming ordeal. Avoid the lines and browse through our lineup of free printable cards . Head over to Valentine's Day ideas for more inspiration.
DIY Geometric Card Boxes
If cards aren't up your alley and you're looking to think outside of the box, why not give a box instead? This easy to make box by Mini Eco is the perfect alternative to cards. Head over to Valentine's Day ideas for more inspiration.
DIY Candy Boxes
Packaging candy hearts can get a little dull when your sweetie sees that others received their treats in the same containers. Add some personality (and effort) to your candy gift with these upcycled candy boxes. They're easier to make than they look. Head over to Valentine's Day ideas for more inspiration.
DIY Treat Boxes
Of course candy hearts aren't the only sweet treats we reward our loved ones with on the special day. This treat box by No Biggie is perfect for carrying a variety of other delectable goodies. Head over to Valentine's Day ideas for more inspiration.
DIY Crafts For The Kids
If you're looking for quick V-Day crafts to send your kids to school with, we've got some great ideas. Take a look through our Valentine's Day Kids Crafts slideshow to get started. Head over to Valentine's Day ideas for more inspiration.
A romantic setting is incomplete without a touch of candles to set the mood. Whether you're looking to use these do-it-yourself wax hearts for a party or as features for an intimate evening, Hello Lucky's craft is sure to help. Head over to Valentine's Day ideas for more inspiration.
DIY Hand Warmers
Baby, it's cold outside! Sometimes the sweaters and scarves and gloves just don't do the trick. Which is why these hand warmers by Petit Elefant are the perfect, practical gift to bestow upon our loved ones who spend their mornings braving the winter. Head over to Valentine's Day ideas for more inspiration.
DIY Felt Luggage Tags
Some of our loved ones always seem to be on the go. Whether they're leaving for a conference in China or taking a business trip cross-country over the weekend, A Spoonful of Sugar's adorable felt luggage tags will help them remember you wherever they go. Head over to Valentine's Day ideas for more inspiration.
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