It’s that time of year again and Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching. With this annual declaration of appreciation for our other halves comes plenty of hand wringing at the thought of scouring the virtual online shopping shelves in search of the perfect gift. So to help you out we thought that we’d put together an essential guide for those who wish to avoid this year’s nightmare shopping; here are our top tips and ideas for you this year.
Gifts for him
Whilst traditionally it is thought that women are far more adept at gift choosing and buying, there are many who would argue that their annual battle between boring aftershaves and bottles of alcohol gets pretty tedious and less of a surprise year on year for their other halves. So here are a couple of suggestions for the special guy in your life.
DIY Coupon Book
Technically this little idea is for both guys and girls, however as we all know it can very often be men who are sometimes less than motivated around the home, a coupon book can then be seen as an official collection of home ‘Get out of Jail Free’ cards and treats. So either buy or make your own coupon book, this can be full of days out, breakfasts in bed and days off from chore duties.
Something a little romantic
Who says guys aren’t soft at heart? Well, surprisingly there are not so many who receive gifts on Valentines day that is genuinely heart felt or cutesy. So be sure to consider the more quirky of gifts, such as a ‘Where We Met’ book, a ‘ten things I love about you’ scroll box or a CD that is made up of important songs to you both.
Gifts for her
Jewellery (or rather a gift voucher for jewellery)
Jewellery is traditionally one of the most popular gifts for Valentine’s Day and when gotten right can be a completely gift winner that will last throughout the years. However, many men can be put off purchasing jewellery for their girlfriends or wives as they simply struggle to choose suitable items that they know their partner will love. To this end you shouldn’t feel afraid to be a little practical about things… a gift card for a jewellers will be far more appreciated than a ring or necklace that she says she loves but really finds hideous.
A pamper day
There are few, if any, women who don’t appreciate a little pampering. This task does need judgement however; do they like to go all out at the spa, or do they prefer a foot massage from someone they know (e.g. you?).
Gifts for either
A day full of treats or an evening out
Depending upon what stage of your relationship you’re at, you may find that this idea is either already an every week occurrence or, as the case may be for those who have been dating or married for years, a pretty cool idea. Either way make time for a special day out doing the things that you usually don’t have time for.
A weekend away
There are few things appreciated as a little time away, so this year why not consider whisking your loved one away for a long relaxing weekend in a hotel? What makes this idea even more perfect is that this year’s Valentine’s Day falls on a weekend!
We hope these few ideas have helped you out a little this year and remember you know your partner better than anyone else, so don’t be afraid to use your own instincts when choosing something different this year.
