The ultimate Valentine’s Day gift guide for your principal

In the UK, February represents more than just the last month of winter. It is also the month of love, with Valentine’s Day falling on February 14. With a week to go, now is the time to make sure your principals are sorted for the big day. We’ve ventured across London, searching high and low for the finest florists, creamiest chocolates, most luxurious lodgings and most extraordinary experiences, all with the hope that this Valentine’s Day is the best yet.

FLORISTS

Neill Strain Floral Couture

Floral fans should flock to this Belgravia boutique, home to some of London’s best arrangements and bouquets. This Valentine’s Day, they’ll be celebrating with the highest-quality, long-stemmed roses, sourced exclusively from exceptional farmers in Holland. With each distinctive design and bespoke bouquet, Neill’s sense of luxury and opulence are on full display, ensuring a Valentine’s Day that your principal’s loved one is unlikely to forget.

For something that continues to show love well after February 14, opt for the Flowers for the Year gift, a year’s worth of seasonal bouquets, available for weekly or monthly distribution.

11 West Halkin Street, Belgravia, SW1X 8JL
87-135 Brompton Rd, Knightsbridge, SW1X 7XL
020 7235 6469 (Belgravia)
www.neillstrain.com

Nikki Tibbles, Wild at Heart

Known throughout the UK for its opulent and creative approach to flowers, Nikki Tibbles Wild at Heart has been creating outstanding collections since 1993. This Valentine’s Day, the teams at each of its three stores have curated stylish arrangements and bouquets that whisper romance. You’ll be able to find hand-tied rose knots, scented candles and seasonal flowers arranged in both bouquets and jam jars. Whatever you order, the recipient will receive a gorgeous gift complete with hand-written note.

If just one bouquet isn’t enough for your principal’s loved one, opt for the Flowers for the Year package, which sees a beautiful bouquet delivered once a month for the next 12 months.

30a Pimlico Road, SW1 WLJ
020 7229 1174

222 Westbourne Grove, W11 2RH
020 7727 3095

Great Marlborough Street, W1B 5AH
020 7573 9563
wildatheart.com

CHOCOLATIERS

Paul A Young Fine Chocolates

With three stores across London, Paul Young is responsible for curing the chocolate cravings for many a Londoner. Sitting at the forefront of the British chocolate scene, Paul is known for his passion and creativity and has been ranked amongst the world’s best chocolatiers. In the lead up to Feburary 14, Paul and his team are turning out decadent treats with ingredients such as pink Champagne, chilli, nutmeg and edible diamonds. Inspired by romantic people, places and things, the range is sure to ignite the senses and evoke the feeling of true love.

143 Wardour Street, Soho, W1F 8WA
020 7437 0011

33 Camden Passage, Islington, N1 8EA
020 7424 5750

20 The Royal Exchange, Threadneedle Street, EC3V 3LP
020 7929 7007
www.paulayoung.co.uk

R Chocolate

There’s no better way to express love than with a box of chocolates! This V-Day, the team at R Chocolate have created a bespoke collection of luxurious truffles and treats, with flavours such as Barons de Rothschild champagne, praline heart chocolate and passionfruit and raspberry crème. Each individual piece has been made with the freshest of ingredients by expert chocolatiers and is presented in a lush red velvet box – perfect for lovers everywhere.

198 Ebury St, Belgravia SW1W 8UN
020 7730 5522

10 Paved Ct, Richmond, TW9 1LZ
020 8332 3002
rchocolatelondon.co.uk

HOTELS

The Ritz

If it’s a staycation your principal is after, look no further than The Ritz. The iconic hotel is home to a number of suites and rooms, but none is more extravagant than the Two Bedroom Piccadilly Suite, named for its exceptional views of Piccadilly and stunning city skyline.
Spread over 122 square metres, the suite features two elegant sitting rooms, two beautifully presented bedrooms and two spacious bathrooms, both with underfloor heating. It includes 24-hour butler and room services, as well as an airport transfer if needed. To celebrate the special day, the Ritz’s culinary team are also offering an exclusive afternoon tea and Michelin-starred dinner in the Marie Antoinette suite, complete with champagne and roses.

150 Piccadilly, W1J 9BR
020 7493 8181
theritzlondon.com

Claridge’s

This timeless Mayfair hotel is the definition of elegance and glamour, having welcome distinguished guests since the 1850s. It’s celebrating Valentine’s Day all month with a bespoke package designed to help guests unwind and enjoy each other’s company. Upon arriving, there will be a bottle of champagne on ice and chocolate-dipped strawberries ready to be devoured, while a pair of monogrammed bathrobes and bouquet of flowers from McQueens will be waiting in the chosen suite. A romantic turn-down service ensures the atmosphere continues well into the afternoon and a guaranteed late check-out means no stress the next morning. With a number of diverse dining options, include in-room service or a table at Fera at Claridge’s, there’s also plenty of opportunities to celebrate over a romantic dinner for two.

Brook Street, Mayfair W1K 4HR
020 7629 8860
claridges.co.uk

GOODS AND EXPERIENCES

Smythson

The Smythson brand has been synonymous with both luxury and versatility for the last 125 years, producing timeless leather goods made with exquisite craftsmanship and an unrivalled attention to detail. Pieces range from handbags and clutches to travel accessories for women to wallets and cufflink boxes for men. Diaries, books, stationery and gifts complete the offering, meaning there’s something for every loved one. Monograms, hand-stamped by the team of artisans, add yet another level of luxury, making for a treasured gift valued for years to come.

131-132 New Bond Street, W1S 2TB
020 3535 8009
www.smythson.com (check the website for other locations)

Private Capsule at London Eye

For a date with a difference, organise a Cupid’s capsule on the London Eye for your principal and their loved one. They will enjoy a private capsule, where a bottle of Pommery Brut Royal champagne and luxury box of Hotel Chocolat Pink champagne truffles await, ready to be served by a personal host. With priority boarding, a 30-minute rotation and entry to the Eye lounge, it’s an ideal way to admire both the city and each other.

To find out more, head to the London Eye website.

Flights to the Northern Lights

February also happens to be the perfect time to view the Northern Lights, so why not make it the main event of your principal’s Valentine Day’s celebrations? Chartered flights are available from a range of UK airports, venturing to the edge of British airspace at a height of 40,000 feet. Pilots are able to position themselves in just the right spot, sitting above weather systems and any man-made light sources to improve visuals. Astronomers are also on board to explain the natural phenomenon, ensuring your principal receives a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Omega Breaks operates the flights. Head to their website to find out more.
—
Are you a PA looking for a new role? Or looking for some extra support? Tiger can help – get in touch today.

Author Tiger Contributor Tiger Recruitment Team