Love is in the air. You and your sweetie have just had a fairytale Valentine’s day, with breakfast in bed, a romantic candle lit dinner, and now it’s time to exchange gifts. Whether there’s a happy ending to this story is up to you. Looking for the perfect gift on any holiday can be tough but Valentine’s Day poses a unique challenge to most. Do you go the traditional route or opt for something a little sexy? Is it a time for cutesy romance or is this your second shot at Christmas? Some feel a mix of both traditional and personal gifts works best. Just remember: it’s not the gift that matters as much as the thought behind it.
Classic Gifts
Whether you’ve been dating for 10 months or 10 years, you can’t go wrong with these timeless gifts. They may be a little cliche, but that’s just because they’re so effective.
Red Roses
Nothing says “I Love You” like a bouquet of fresh roses. Don’t limit yourself to just roses though–incorporating their favorite flowers into the mix is especially thoughtful. A heart-shaped vase will make the gift more special.
Chocolates
Whether they enjoy sweet caramels or savory truffles, they’re sure to appreciate a box of gourmet goodies. If they’re really adventurous, try a bacon chocolate toffee. Or try a gift basket, including some cheese and wine for more demanding palates.
Jewelry Set
Be sure to know what your significant other likes before buying any jewelry. If she’s a ring person, don’t get her a pair of chandelier earrings. And if he’s never worn a pair of cuff links before, maybe you’d be better off getting him a pocket watch.
Personalized Gifts
Sometimes the most personal gift is the one that you pick out with a specific interest in mind. Some may call it unromantic, but what could possibly be more romantic than showing your mate you listen to them and really know what they like?
The Cook
If your mate’s idea of a great night is attempting a recipe from the new Ina Garten cookbook, why not give them a new set of saucing pans, or a great paella pan? Throw in a bottle of white truffle oil or aged balsamic vinegar and you’ll be their hero.
The Fitness Enthusiast
Some are happiest when working up a sweat. But how to give them a gift without being insulting? After all, weight loss is a touchy subject. Try a heart rate monitor or digital pedometer. And how about some bamboo cotton towels for that post-workout shower?
The Traveler
People plan their vacations around their work schedule, and sometimes that means that special trip is a long way off. A stylish travel wallet (plane ticket optional!) or a digital pocket language translator are great gifts to tide them over until it’s time for take off.
The Fixer-Upper
Thanks to cabel television, a swath of society has learned to love a bit of DIY. Nothing makes them happier than dragging out a set of tools and fixing a leaky drain or sanding down an old table, so help them out with a new power drill or a digital measuring tape.
The Gamer
Feel like you are being suffocated? Buy them an addictive video game and you will start being ignored in no time. PC games like Warcraftand Battlefield can engross your lover for hours. Console systems like the PlayStation 3,Xbox 360, and especially the Wii, can bring you two together with fun multiplayer games. The Xbox Kinect add-on or Wii Fitcan actually give your partner a workout if they are getting a little soft around the middle.
The Romantic
So what is a “romantic gift” exactly? They generally involve expressing your affections directly. Reasons I love you stones are thoughtful; try making your own out of paper, with your own reasons. An engraved message band is a gesture that lasts forever. Or your gift can require that the two of you spend time together. The I Dare You game is a fun way to share some intimate time. You can also spend a romantic day together on a romantic picnic.
The Outdoorsman or Woman
What’s more romantic than a weekend living in a tent, making a fire, and hunting your own food in full camo gear? Lots of things, really. Maybe that isn’t your cup of tea, but if your significant other loves the great outdoors, try giving them a multipurpose tool, a state of the art tent, or a survival kit. Those with a larger budget can arrange for a camping trip later in the year, when the weather is more survivable.
The Sports Fan
Whether your fan is an avid player or a couch potato coach, he/she will appreciate a gift that shows you understand and support their obsession, at least for Valentine’s Day. Baseball fans would love a new team t-shirt or baseball cap before the pre-season starts. Football fans love authentic team jerseys they can wear to the stadium, while basketball fans appreciate signed basketball cards.
Related Guides
These are some great resources to provide inspiration and information.
Gifts for Women
That special woman will want something that shows you have been listening. Find your sweetheart a gift.
Unique Gifts
Sick of the same old chocolates and flowers every year? Try these non-traditional gift ideas.
Gifts for Men
Men love this day too–why not get something you can enjoy together? Check out Valentine’s Day Gifts for Men.
Proposals
Popping the question? Read all about picking out an engagement ring.
For Parents
Surprise your parents–even a card would make them smile. See more ideas on V-Day Gifts for Parents.
Sexy Gifts
Spice up this Valentine’s night with sexy gifts that’ll even make Cupid blush.
Chocolates
Know a chocolate lover? Treat him or her to a gift of chocolates for gourmands.
For Children
Don’t forget a gift for the kids. They will appreciate even a small token.
For Singles
Cheer up the person who hates Valentine’s Day with these SAD ideas.
For the Romantic at Heart
The hopeless romantics will need a gift that is all about love.