I feel like there are two predominant types of Valentine’s Day gift giving.
The first type of gift giving is the gift that has been researched for weeks, is deeply personalized with initials and inside jokes and probably involves some type of scavenger hunt. The person who gives these types of gifts has normally been planning for Valentine’s Day for at least three weeks in advance, and saving up for about twice that time.
The second type is the one where you’re excited about Valentine’s Day, but you keep procrastinating getting that gift for your special sweetheart and before you know it it’s February 13th and you’re looking at the rates on overnight shipping or browsing the Valentine’s Day aisle at Target in a panic.
I definitely fall more in to the second type. I love Valentine’s Day (there’s so much pink everywhere!) and I love the boyfriend, but extensive, thought-provoking gift giving? To put it in the words of one of my favorite memes, ain’t nobody got time for that!
Therefore, I have a couple old standbys that make it seem like you put a lot of time and effort into making it a special day for your snuggle-bunny, even if they were bought the day before.
-A classic gift, like boxers, cologne, or a watch. Although these can be on the pricier side, depending on your budget and the style level of lé partner, there’s a reason these items are classics: they’re pretty much foolproof, as the shnookybear will (hopefully) love anything you picked out for him.
-Event tickets. Quick, browse his iTunes! If you see any artists that come up again and again in his Top Played (or, you know, he talks about them a lot and has their poster. I prefer the stalker iTunes approach), see if they have any shows coming up in your area and BAM. Valentine’s Day: made.
If you can’t find any favorite bands or the locations don’t work out, Matthew Knight Arena has some really cool shows (Mythbusters, anyone?) that would make an equally amazing present.
-Massage. My S.O. is always clamoring for a massage…always. And they say you should try and pick up subtle hints for present ideas! To fancy it up a little, buy some candles and some massage oil, and google some massage tips to make it extra special.
-One month of Netflix (and a pre-set snuggle date). Netflix is one of those things like breathing and thinking that I just don’t think I could live without. Share the love and get him a pre-paid month of Netflix, along with a promise that he can claim one night with just you two and whatever movie he wants to watch.
-Baked goods. I know it’s cliche, but the key to a man’s heart really is through his stomach. Heart-shaped cookies and cream cheese-frosted brownies? You’ll be the best girlfriend ever.
-Beer. Pick out six individual bottles from Ninkasi, Rogue, and other local breweries, and put them in a six-pack container. The fact that you picked out different kinds especially for him will be cute and thoughtful…plus it’s beer, and guys love beer. Put pink ribbons on them for extra girlfriend points.
Remember, though, that last minute gifts are just as meaningful as pre-planned ones, as long as you give it with sentiment (as cheesy as that sounds). It’s the thought that counts, and the fact that you put together a super awesome gift at the last minute is a very kind thought towards your relationship.
Happy gifting, and good luck!