Looking for a last-minute Valentine’s Day gift that’s out of the box? I mean, no hate towards flowers and a box of chocolates… but if you’re hoping to get creative, here are 6 ideas:
1. SOMETHING SWEET
Never underestimate the power of food. They say it’s the way to a man’s heart, but I can attest that it can often be the way to a woman’s heart as well. Whether it’s their favorite piece of cake, a cookie (homemade or store-bought, all are welcome), or a basket full of go-tos from candy to granola, you can’t go wrong with a sweet treat. If your loved one is gluten-free, try snagging an Antonina’s Gluten-Free Bakery product like the GF Cinnamon Chip Muffins from Sprouts or Whole Foods. They’re delicious and don’t even taste gluten-free.
2. SOMETHING STUNNING
There’s really a lot of ways you can take this: Flowers and jewelry (or watches for men) are definitely the “classic” beautiful gifts you can give, but you can also branch out and get a little creative. If you have a little girl, for instance, it might delight your wife if you surprise her with a Feltman Brothers dress for your daughter. (Sometimes it’s more exciting to get a pretty outfit for your baby than for you. And I mean, hello, this Rose Garden Collection Dress with roses, ruffles, and beautiful handmade smocking is perfection.) Or if your husband loves reading, consider getting him a new leather-bound edition of his favorite book.
Home decor is also fun, especially if it’s Valentine’s Day themed. Whether it’s something to spruce up the nursery like these darling heart-print KeaBabies Toddler Pillows, a Pride & Prejudice vase for the kitchen counter, a fancy tie, or a hearty (get it?) mug for their daily coffee, adding a touch of holiday can make the ordinary more fun. (Tip: If you do have V-Day-themed goodies, you might want to give it to them beforehand, so they can use it.)
3. SOMETHING SENTIMENTAL
Have any artistic skills? Put them to use by painting, sewing, or crafting a DIY project they will love. (Talk about a labor of love!) If you have kids, this is where they can pitch in too. Even a homemade card can be special to receive. The key here is simple: Think about your loved one’s favorite things, then see if you can come up with a pretty, meaningful addition to their life that will spark joy.
4. SOMETHING SIPPY
Surprise them with a coffee from their favorite coffee shop or brew a cup before they get up. If your spouse is not a coffee person, consider other drink options they like that might spark joy, such as tea, matcha, or even a Celsius or a Poppi. Dave’s Coffee has a fun pure black iced coffee if you’re looking to order in advance and have some on hand in the fridge. If you and your spouse drink alcohol, a high-end bottle of champagne or wine could be a special way to celebrate as well. Going out for drinks is also a great way to carve out intentional time together and enhance the gift with an experience.
5. SOMETHING SILLY
Now, I’m not talking about the “here’s a new charging cord” kind of silly. (That might just get you in trouble!) I’m talking about something like The Perfect Man chocolate, a custom bobblehead, their face on a potato, a toilet mug, or a “Times I was right and nobody listened” notebook. Again, it’s important to know your person: If they’ll just see it as a waste of money and dumb, that might be your cue not to buy it. But if they appreciate goofy gestures, making them laugh might be the best gift of all.
6. SOMETHING SURPRISING
Valentine’s Day is known as a day to unveil huge surprises, whether it be a wedding proposal or baby announcement. If you’re surprising your partner or other loved ones with the exciting news that a baby is on the way, get them a baby outfit like CARLOMAR’s heart-shaped pjs that they can unwrap as part of the reveal! You can also incorporate experiences into your surprise gift, whether it be tickets to a concert they want to go to, a date night at a nice restaurant, or a picnic dinner you have already prepared.
Remember, your goal is to make your special someone feel “something special.” It doesn’t have to be expensive or elaborate—get them something that reminds you of them or that shows them you care. (Highly recommend asking about their love language and choosing something that will make them feel the most loved!)
