If you and your partner are the types who like to exchange gifts for Valentine’s Day, you may find it hard to come up with something meaningful to give year after year. For some, the traditional flowers or chocolates suit them just fine, but others may be yearning for something a little more unexpected. If you are in need of ideas this year, hopefully these options will give you some inspiration.
1. Write your Valentine a love letter
When is the last time you wrote a thoughtful note to your partner? Take some time and write down the things that you love most about your partner, reminisce about your favorite memories together, and express your gratitude for them in your life.
2. Plan a romantic getaway for just the two of you
Hear me out, this can be as expensive or inexpensive as you want it to be! Have someone take the kids for a night or two and:
- Turn your home into a 5-star resort complete with couple’s massages. (Check out this video with different massage tips if you need some guidance.)
- Stay at a local bed and breakfast or AirBNB and visit tourist sites in your area for a stay-cation.
- Go on a cruise or explore a new destination for a few days.
- Set up a tent in your backyard (or living room!) and have a camp-out.
The possibilities are endless. Whatever you choose, setting aside time for just the two of you can bring some much-needed connection to your relationship.
3. Buy or make something for your home
Making a home together is an important part of many committed relationships, and a gift that adds to your living space can be a great way to show your love and commitment. This could be a painting or photograph that reminds you of them, a blanket to cuddle in, a plant you can nurture together, etc.
4. Arrange to attend a relationship workshop together
Whether your relationship is in tip-top shape or a little rough around the edges, you can show your partner love and dedication by investing in Relationship Education. There are many free or inexpensive workshops and programs out there that teach research-based skills for healthy relationships (HRC’s free workshop for California couples for one), and Valentine’s Day is a great time to work on renewing your commitment to and love for each other.
Bonus tip
When choosing a gift, keep your partner’s love language in mind. Different people like to be shown love in different ways. Visit Dr. Gary Chapman’s website to find out how you and your partner most like to receive love, and then let that guide you in your gift-giving.
We hope you have fun finding something meaningful to give your partner this year, and wish you a Happy Valentine’s Day!