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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Exeter chapter.

As much as Valentine’s Day is known for clichés, sometimes you want a change from the usual chocolates and roses that bombard us yearly. But don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with a gift guide of different things to get your significant other this year, so you won’t have to rely on the typical chocolates and roses, because let’s face it, being gifted something different makes it much more memorable.

As an alternative to chocolate: macarons

If you’re tired of giving/receiving chocolates, why not try macarons? This beautiful French dessert is romantic and more thoughtful than the typical box of chocolates. It shows that you’ve put more thought into the gift instead of just buying whatever you find on the Valentine’s promotion at you nearest convenience store. You may be able to find them at a nearby patisserie, alternatively you can order them online or bake them yourself! Although this does require a lot of skill, it will be highly appreciated.

Valentine’s Day Converse

If you have a bit more to spend this Valentine’s day, Converse have designed Valentines themed shoes that are cool enough to be worn all year round but will always remind you of that special day

Jewellery for all

If your partner likes Jewellery, a subtle gift idea could be a simple silver band with a message engraved on the inside. Another option could be silver chains with a letter of your partners initials. This gift idea is great for men, women and non-binary people because it is the perfect keepsake.

Red lipstick

Nothing says Valentine’s Day like a red lip. If your other half loves makeup why not pick your favourite shade of red for them to wear. MAC have so many beautiful shades and there is even a sale at Boots to help you out. Or for a vegan alternative, which also means it is free of animal testing, you could try Charlotte Tilbury.

A new, or old, romance novel

If your partner loves to read, the best gift you can get them is a romance novel. You could go for a Classic like Pride and Prejudice or something new like The Kiss Quotient.

A video game to play together

A couple that games together, stays together so why not choose a game you’ve both been longing to play and split it 50/50. Story mode games are perfect for this! My recommendation is Life Is Strange.

Pre-dinner gifts

If you have a dinner date planned but no gift to accompany it, you could pay to get your girl’s nails done. If she doesn’t mind, you could pick a design for her too. For him, you could buy a new dinner shirt that you want him to wear out for dinner. This would look perfect is a square box with a single rose on top!

Couples massage

The perfect gift, in my opinion, is a couples massage because it’s a gift idea that you can both enjoy… However, if you’re on a budget, you can DIY. Buy some massage oil and have a night-in pampering each other. You could also buy some face masks or share a bath together with tea lights around the outside.

Underwear for him

If you know he’s buying you lingerie why not try return the favour and buy him new underwear. Calvin Klein is a brand everyone loves. You could go for the classic black, grey or white. Or maybe something red to match the occasion.

Time to put those photos to use

Buying a photo frame and putting a few photo options in the back cover is a gift that never fails. Not only is it affordable, but it’s a sentimental gift that shows your appreciation for all the memories you’ve made together. Alternatively, if you’re in a new relationship buying a disposable or film camera will show your intention to make many memories together.


First year student studying Liberal Arts at the University of Exeter, and majoring in communications.