Valentine’s Day is one of those holidays that you either love or hate. Some people wear black on this day to signify whether just to themselves or to others, that they don’t care about the mushy, over-the-top holiday. I, however, fall in the category of those who love this holiday—we’re talking candy, chocolate, and chick flicks. What’s not to love?
Still, it seems there is one thing not to love about Valentine’s Day: the grueling process of picking out the perfect gift for that special someone. This is especially daunting when you and your guy have an ambiguous relationship—friends? With benefits? Exclusive? Official?! Boundaries can be hard to define, and all the Valentine’s Day romance doesn’t make it any easier.
Questions you may have: are you two close enough to do something super romantic? Should you forego the sentimentality of a pricier pick and lower the risk of going over-the-top with the mush-factor? What’s something creative you could make to really show you care?
If you like going the sentimental and creative route when giving gifts, here are some easy, fun things to make!
1. Scrapbook
These are great for longer-term relationships. Hit up Facebook to find the cutest photos of you two and print ‘em out! Plan themes for your scrapbook pages, like a section for date pictures or costume parties, and save space for romantic song lyrics (T Swift? Bruno Mars? Frank Sinatra!). Flip through magazines for extra cut-outs to complement your pics, and frame everything by pasting it to a slightly larger square of paper. Your scrapbook will be something he will cherish for a long time.
2. Cookies
This is pretty self-explanatory; who doesn’t like cookies? This idea is good for newer relationships…add sprinkles and red frosting for a little pizzazz! He won’t be able to resist.
3. Framed Photo
To get extra creative, make the frame yourself! Get a simple white frame from a craft store and paint it, or glue jewels, coins, or shells to it. Try not to make it too girly, though – you don’t want him to be embarrassed to keep it on his desk!
4. Box of sentimental items
I once had a boyfriend who really liked Dave Matthews Band, red Skittles, and Ralph Lauren shirts—so I decorated a shoebox and got him a CD, a bag of red Skittles (yes, I picked out all of the other colors), and got him a Polo top. Showing that you recognize his quirks and preferences really lets him know you care.
5. Popcorn Bucket and A Movie
I’ll be honest…this one was my Christmas gift to my little brother, but it still works great for Valentine’s day: buy a cool container (Target has some cute ones), fill it with movie theater candy and popcorn packets, and give it to him with the promise of treating him to a movie of his choice – no matter how gory, plot-less, or scantily clad the women in it may be.
Other less time-consuming gift items include: an iHome, cool sneakers, a nice watch, cologne (might I recommend Burberry or Polo!), DVD’s like the complete season of Dexter or Entourage. If you’re feeling in the mood for a gag gift, get him Whey Protein Powder (like he doesn’t have enough already).
Just wait until you see the adorable look on your dude’s face when he sees what you have in store for him! Here’s to a night ending in showers of kisses—Hershey’s and otherwise.
Click here for more info on what people all over the country are doing to celebrate this special day!