If you’re finding yourself getting ready for Galentine’s Day or just searching for a peaceful way to spend February 14th solo, there are many ways to have an undoubtably amazing day in Philly. From facial bars to bookstores, here are the best places to check out if you and your friends are looking to enjoy a Valentine’s Day filled with self–love and care.
Loomen Labs
This do–it–yourself, BIPOC–owned, zero–waste candle–making shop in South Philly is the perfect place for a creative group (or solo) activity. Visitors have the opportunity to select candle scents, wax colors, and glass molds to create a uniquely customized candle. Loomen Labs even offers several themed events, such as the “Manifestation Candle-making Experience,” which comes with a bundle of sage, ethically–sourced crystals, and a lesson on how to set intentions. These special events are booking fast and all visits require a reservation, so be sure to grab your spot in time for Valentine's Day. If you can’t make it in–store, Loomen Labs also has an at–home, Valentine’s Day–themed candle–making gift set for $45.
Location: 620 S 5th St.
Reservation Hours: Mondays and Thursdays: 1 PM, 3 PM, and 5 PM; Fridays and Saturdays: 1 PM, 3 PM, 5 PM, 7 PM; closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays
Price: $$
Yay Clay!
Yay Clay offers no–experience–required pottery making classes in the Port Richmond neighborhood of Philly. Each booking is for at least two people, cleverly referred to as “Clay Dates.” These events are BYOB, but all needed pottery materials are available in the studio. In just three weeks, you can come to pick up your handmade pottery pieces—all of which are microwave, dishwasher, and oven–safe. Yay Clay is a great spot for groups looking to express their creative side, all while creating a gorgeous, practical finished product in the process.
Location: 3237 Amber St.
Hours: By appointment. Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays: 7 PM; Saturdays and Sundays: 2 PM – 7 PM
Price: $$$
Skin House Facial Bar
Skin House Facial Bar was founded in 2018 with the mission of creating customizable and approachable skin care services. Some of the services offered include the 50–minute “OMG Breakout” facial designed to combat maskne, or the exfoliating hour–long “Glow–Getter Facial.” If you aren’t sure what’s right for you and your skin, you can always go with the “Skin House Signature,” which allows you to consult with a skin coach to find the best products for your skin. If you’re unable to visit the store, Skin House also offers numerous products on their website for an DIY spa session or a gift for a friend.
Location: 1238 South St.
Hours: Tuesdays – Fridays: 10 AM – 8 PM; Saturdays: 10 AM – 5 PM; Sundays, 11 AM – 5 PM, closed on Mondays
Price: $$$ – $$$$
Duross & Langel
Located in Center City, Duross & Langel has homemade soap and spa products for all of your skin and hair care needs. Shop their website to ship customizable items right to you or visit the store to smell over 20 unique aroma blends and browse items more directly. The best part about Duross & Langel is that they are committed to using organic ingredients whenever possible and wrap all of their soaps in biodegradable, eco–friendly paper.
Location: 117 S 13th St.
Hours: Wednesdays – Saturdays: 11 AM – 5 PM
Price: $ – $$
Harriett’s Bookshop
Named after abolitionist Harriet Tubman, Harriett’s Bookshop is a Black–owned, independent small business with a focus on selling books that celebrate “women authors, women artists, and women activists.” According to a 2021 Travel and Leisure feature, founder Jeannine Cook has made it her mission to give every customer a new experience each time they visit the shop. Not only is Harriett’s a good spot to gift yourself a great novel, it also has comfy seating and a relaxing atmosphere for the perfect self–care day.
Location: 258 E Girard Ave.
Hours: Thursdays – Sundays: 12 AM – 6 PM
Price: $ – $$$
