By Warren McInnis Hughes
What’s the best way to say, “Happy Valentine’s Day” to a loved one? This could be a boyfriend, girlfriend, husband, wife, family member, or a special friend. Think about why they mean so much to you and what you appreciate most about your relationship. Recognizing loved ones doesn’t need to be expensive or complicated; a successful Valentine’s Day results from thoughtful planning and paying attention to the small details. Think about the person’s interests, hobbies, health, and schedule— would they appreciate flowers, tools, candy, or an intimate dinner the most? If they have small children, perhaps you could arrange childcare services or a relaxing massage; if they are elderly, perhaps you could provide transportation, food preparation services, spend time reading to them, or reminisce with them while browsing photo albums. If you are searching for a more intimate, romantic Valentine’s Day treat or adventure for that special someone, we have some great local ideas for you!
A Vintage Winery Experience
Enoree River Vineyards and Winery located on Dusty Road in Newberry offers a signature experience with exquisite, local wine selections. Laura and Richard LaBarre bought the 18-acre property, originally an overgrown cow pasture, in 2005. With extensive clearing, grading, and preparation, grape production began in 2008. Customers often describe the landscape and atmosphere of the winery to be reminiscent of authentic Italian vineyards. Laura notes with pride that the Winery does not utilize “shiners” or products manufactured by other facilities as most wineries do. (Shiners are finished, bottled wines that do not have a label or any other identifying features until a vintner purchases and designates a label on the bottles.) The venue serves local, handcrafted 100% real juice wines, with no chemical enhancements, processed, corked, and labeled onsite. All wines are made naturally, with minimal processing and sulfites, taking three months to a year to fully ferment. More than 60% of wines produced by Enoree River Vineyards and Winery are made with South Carolina fruits.
Guests can look forward to relaxing with their refreshment of choice in rocking chairs on the large wrap-around porch overlooking the massive vineyard, sample tastings from the current season’s harvest in the “Upper Room,” and tour the facility up-close and personal as they casually sip. Soak in the fresh air, browse the immaculate grounds, and indulge in wine by the glass, by the bottle, or with a tasting.
The Enoree River Vineyards and Winery tasting room typically serves 10-12 different wines, and selection varies by season; tasting sessions include a souvenir glass. Children and leashed dogs are invited to play in the large grassy areas with parental supervision. Reservations are not required for parties of 6 or less, so grab your special someone and head over to Newberry!
Enoree River Vineyards and Winery
1650 Dusty Rd., Newberry, SC 29108
803-276-2855
A Sweet and Savory Experience
On Highway 378 in the heart of Lexington, The Blended Bakery creates amazing culinary treats and meals from scratch, very similar to those in major American and European cities. With its cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and a menu bursting with mouthwatering eclectic dishes, it’s the perfect place to unwind and savor a delightful meal with friends, coworkers, or family. Their diverse menu caters to every palate, age, and budget, whether you’re planning a leisurely brunch with loved ones, a high tea catch-up session with friends, or a solo sandwich and soup combo during the lunch rush. Visitors are constantly intrigued by the unexpected twists applied to traditional recipes at this establishment as well as the bold, familiar flavors of their favorite comfort foods. The ambiance of the facility offers a relaxed but embellished French café style setting where laughter flows as freely as conversation.
Heather Bruce, owner of The Blended Bakery, is originally from Charlotte. When her “blended” family moved to the Midlands during the pandemic in 2020, she worked as a pastry chef for a catering company. As the daily challenges of the pandemic became more prominent for area businesses and residents, Heather and her husband moved to Lexington County, where her husband had once lived. In 2021, Heather joined the team at The Blended Bakery where her daughter was working. When the owners decided to sell the bakery in 2023, Heather was overjoyed that her dream would finally come to fruition, “Owning my own bakery is everything I have ever wanted,” she remarks with a glowing smile. “I’m honored to be able to do what I love in Lexington.” Heather also derives great satisfaction from contributing to worthy charities and shelters within the community. In December she was nominated as a competitor in the “Greatest Baker” competition, which supports The Andrew McDonough Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization for families battling childhood cancer.
“Valentine’s Day is among my favorite occasions because as a pastry chef/baker, I can have fun and be creative,” Heather explains. She has been planning and preparing for months: there will be cupcakes for school parties, decorated sugar cookies, and seasonally flavored macaroons, along with many other delicious pastries and impressive plate presentations. Her winter brunch menu features a love story sandwich entitled “Reuben meets Rachel,” a double-decker entrée combining the classic Reuben sandwich with turkey and buttermilk coleslaw. “Heart Throb” cookies are her favorite signature treat to prepare for Valentine’s Day, and the set includes 6 cookies. Three of the cookies are made with a custom sugar sheet featuring the client’s photos and three are elaborately decorated. Once they are perfected, Heather carefully places them in a delicate, themed, ribboned box.
Anticipation is high for the month of “amòre,” and The Blended Bakery never fails to deliver. In addition to personalized Valentine’s Day treats and entrees, Heather is hosting two celebratory events: on Feb. 10th a Fine Dining experience will be available, and on Feb. 13th a fun and fabulous “Girls’ Night Out experience will be available with cake decorating activities, refreshments, and signature cocktails. Come as you are, and leave with a satisfied heart, a full stomach, and a smile.
The Blended Bakery – 5076 Sunset Blvd, Suite A Lexington, SC 29072
TheBlendedBakery.net [email protected]
(803) 957-5129
