Valentine’s Day always brings a warm, fuzzy feeling around Treat Kitchen HQ. Maybe it’s the heart-shaped sweets. Maybe it’s the excuse to be extra soppy. But really, I think it’s because Valentine’s reminds me of how our story began - a story that would eventually lead to Treat Kitchen existing at all.
So, I thought this year I’d share the real-life romantic origin story of Treat Kitchen - how Martin and I met, quite by chance, on a little station platform in Lincolnshire.
How It All Began… on a Platform in Sleaford (2006)
Back in 2006, I was working in Sleaford, a small Lincolnshire town where the station platform was freezing and the waiting room was always closed. Every evening, I’d sit on the same bench waiting for the train back to Nottingham, hoping it wouldn’t be delayed (again!).
And every evening, like clockwork, Martin would appear too.
At first, I assumed he was just being friendly — two commuters making polite small talk to pass the time. Honestly, I genuinely thought he was just bored and trying to fill the wait with conversation about trains, weather, or whatever came to mind.
He later told me that if he arrived at the station and saw me already sitting there, he knew he hadn’t missed the train. Meanwhile I was completely oblivious — I just thought, “Oh good, the nice guy is here again, this will make the ride home go faster.”
Before long, we started choosing the same carriage… then the same seats… and suddenly the train ride home became my favourite part of the day awwww.
Then came the big surprise: One evening, completely out of the blue, Martin asked me out.
I was shocked — delighted, but truly shocked! Because in my head, he’d just been killing time on the commute.
That moment led to our first date… then many more… and eventually to building a life — a family -and a business — together. And that business became Treat Kitchen.
Fast-Forward to Today: Sharing the Love, One Treat at a Time
Now, all these years later, we get to help other people celebrate their own love stories — whether romantic, platonic, fun, long-distance, or wonderfully chaotic.
And Valentine’s Day and of course Galentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to shower someone lovely (including yourself!) with treats that spark joy.
So here are our top Valentine’s picks for 2026 — each one chosen with love, laughter, and a little Treat Kitchen magic.
Four Bottle Valentine’s Hamper
Our hero gift of the season! A stylish wooden hamper, packed with four of our bestselling sweet bottles, this gift is perfect for partners, pals, and anyone who deserves an extra special treat.
Luv Ya Message Bottle
Cute, joyful, and straight to the point. It’s like sending a mini love letter — but sweeter. Why not hide it in your partner’s bag as a lovely surprise!
Just For You Message Bottle
When you want your Valentine to feel totally singled out (in the best way). A lovely “thinking of you” treat. The perfect accompaniment to your valentine’s card. Once the sweets have been enjoyed you can fill the bottle with memory notes or love messages – cute!
You’re Berry Special Message Bottle
Sweet, fruity, fun, and guaranteed to make someone blush. Perfect for friends, Galentine’s gifts, or your very own sweetheart. No need to wrap this present the message says it all!
Original Stormtrooper Chocolate Helmet
“I love you, I know!” For the Valentine who loves a bit of sci-fi flair… and chocolate. It’s bold, it’s collectible, and it’s seriously impressive out of the box.
From Our Story to Yours… Happy Valentine’s Day
Our little love story began on a station bench in Sleaford and somehow led us to creating a business full of treats meant to bring joy to others.
Whether your story started on a train platform, a dating app, a pub, a dog walk, a supermarket aisle, or anywhere in between — we hope our sweets add a little extra sparkle to your Valentine’s Day.
With lots of love, Jess (& Martin!) Treat Kitchen
