The shopping in Burlington, VT — especially in the Church Street Marketplace — offers a wide variety of stores that offer both unique and high-quality items. For anyone who has ever struggled with the question of “What the hell do I get my girlfriend or boyfriend for Valentine’s Day?” Look no further. This three-shop stop will help you get your Valentine’s Day shopping done in a breeze.

1. Common Deer.

“Common deer was founded on the idea that everything is better with a bit of character.”

This store appeals to the many people in Vermont who desire to shop as locally as possible. I can really appreciate how the store aims to know where each of their products was made, by whom it was made and takes the time to know its “story.” This store has all sorts of apparel that are both high in quality and very unique. This is the first place that I stop when I need to get a gift for someone in my life who is celebrating a special occasion. I think that this would be the perfect place to do some shopping for Valentine’s Day if you are in Burlington, Vermont and hard-pressed to find him or her “the perfect gift.”

For the ladies, you can find: jewelry, throw pillows, candles, writers notebooks or handbags. For the gentleman you can find: beautifully handcrafted watches, flasks, pint glasses, sunglasses, hats, flannels and cozy winter blankets among a variety of other intriguing products.

2. Saratoga Olive Oil Co.

If you live in Burlington, Vermont either as a student or resident, you would be lying if you said you had never strayed from your walk on Church St. to go eat the free olive oil and bread samples in this store. Some of my favorite balsamic blends that I highly recommend tasting include: cranberry pear white balsamic, honey ginger balsamic, peach white balsamic and Vermont maple balsamic vinegar. They also have some of nicest olive oils blends to be found in the area. They offer many strange yet delicious blends of olive oil including butter, fennel, garlic infused varieties. If you can afford it, definitely purchase your significant other a bottle...or four.

3. Lake Champlain Chocolates.

Still just cannot think of anything your boyfriend or girlfriend would like for Valentine's Day? Get your sweetie something sweet at Lake Champlain Chocolates! A box of chocolates from this place can get you a long way and makes an adorable present for a couple who is spending their first Valentine's Day together. Nothing says “I love you” like receiving arguably the best chocolate in New England. You could also go there for an indulgent after-dinner dessert and coffee. In addition to their almost overwhelming selection of chocolate flavors, they offer hot chocolate, milkshakes and truffles on their extensive menu of delightful desserts.