Galentine’s and Valentine’s Day come with unique ideas for lovers and those who take a pass

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. - Whether you are in love or are going to bypass Valentine's Day this year, there will still be a lot of creative ideas around you from restaurants to grocery stores.

Windows of jewelry stores and clothing spots are bursting with the color red on dresses and gifts.

Hand-sewn hearts on hats and hoodies at Zoe Bikini (429 State St.), "Ax your Ex" (photos only) gets you $5 off at the State St. Axe Club (427 State St.) and 1/2 off wine bottles, prosecco, and champagne splits for 'GALentines' at Pascucci (529 State St.) for women only (Feb. 13) are among the specials going on before and on Valentine's Day in Santa Barbara.

The Unity Shoppe which stocks donations, has a window display with a variety of colorful Valentine's gifts including flowers, clothing and jewelry. Christina Rodriguez said, "its kind of cool to decorate with the little hearts and everything.   It always works. I always have fun doing that."    

Many new roadside pop ups will be around the Central Coast with flowers, stuffed animals and other Valentine's items.
At the State Street Axe Club owner Brett Michaelson said, last year, no ex's got axed but couples came in. He said they were " going out  for a romantic dinner, let's go have a little axecitement throw some axes a little  competition a little trash talking. It is something to do as a couple and have some fun!" 

The hand crafted, colorful hearts on clothing at Zoe Bikini are keeping the owner busy. Zoe Magee said, "yes every night I am on my bed hand stitching them. Yes they are a crowd pleaser! I have a friend who buys ten at a time and she spreads them around to everyone in Santa Barbara."

If you look around there are other businesses that have heart shaped pizza, donuts, and cookies.