Valentine’s Day is often associated with classic gifts – jewelry, flowers, and chocolate but meaningful gifts come in many forms.

This year, we invited Bambi Costanzo to share her approach to thoughtful St. Valentine’s Day gift-giving — one that values history, sentiment, and pieces that can be cherished for years to come.

A Love for the Old and the Meaningful

Bambi’s passion for vintage and antique finds is deeply rooted in her upbringing.

“I grew up in the northern panhandle of West Virginia in an old farmhouse. It had yellow cabinets, a double drainboard sink, and a clawfoot tub. There were animals to care for and acres of land to roam. My mom had a booth in our historic downtown and often went to auctions and antique stores. I believe that old farmhouse and my mom’s love of antiques shaped me into who I am today.”

Her love for the past carried over to her gift-giving philosophy. Rather than selecting fleeting gifts like candy and flowers, she looks for items that add to a collection, serve a purpose year-round, or hold sentimental value.

She even adds the year and holiday to the bottom of gifts, turning them into lasting keepsakes.

“It’s fun to look back and remember.”

Bambi’s Valentine’s Day Gift Picks

Whether you are shopping for a partner, a dear friend, or even yourself, these handpicked items online auction treasures embody the spirit of meaningful gifting.

❤️ For the Classic Romantic:

Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Water Pitcher (item #: 343165) – A luxurious, heirloom-worthy piece for special occasions or everyday elegance.

📖 For the Book Lover:

Volume VI Standard Natural History (1885) (item #: 330800) – A beautiful antique book, perfect for collectors or anyone who loves classic literature.

🎨 For the Art Enthusiast:

John Neale Signed Oil Painting – Summer Landscape (item #: 324081)– A stunning piece to add artful beauty to any space.

🍰 For the Elegant Entertainer:

Rare Royal Copenhagen Flora Danica Cake Plate (item #: 345213)– A delicate, hand-painted treasure perfect for serving sweets in style anytime of the year.

🥘 For the Culinary Enthusiast:

Vintage Copper Lidded Sauté Pan (item #: 97840)– A beautiful, yet functional kitchen staple for home chefs and cooking enthusiasts.

🏆 For the History Buff:

Antique Silverplate Trophy Cup (Dated 1913) (item #: 20478)– A conversation-starting display piece with a storied past.

🏺 For the Collector:

Pair of Chinese Blue & White Hand-Painted Ginger Jars (item #: 188405)– A lovely addition to any collection of fine ceramics or decorative displays.

🚶‍♂️ For the Unique Gift Receiver:

Antique Bamboo Cane with Carved Greyhound Head (item #: 75648)– A one-of-a-kind piece with character and charm.

A Valentine’s Day Tradition

For Bambi, Valentine’s Day has always been about sentiment and tradition.

“Growing up, Valentine’s Day was my favorite. I still remember the clear heart container filled with tiny cinnamon hearts my mom would give me. I received that same heart full of the same candy for many years.”

As her own children grew, she found joy in sorting through their St. Valentine’s Day cards and candies. Now, they celebrate by making handmade cards for each other and enjoying a special dinner together — keeping the focus on thoughtfulness and connection.

This year, consider stepping beyond the traditional jewelry box and by giving something with history, character, and lasting significance. After all, the best gifts are the ones that tell a story.