Gifts Glorious Gifts

It’s February, the month of love, and with Valentines Day just around the corner, there is no better time to show your loved ones just how much you care with gifts of love, straight from the heart.

Gifts for him
Contrary to popular belief, men are actually not that difficult to buy for by virtue of the simple fact that they are less concerned with the deeper meaning of things, and are mostly excited at the thought of just receiving something. Nevertheless, this should not be a reason to resort the boring and predictable socks, aftershave and chocolates. Be a little imaginative…

For many men, gestures mean as much, if not more than a gift. Being served and pampered appeals to many men’s fantasies, with the memory lingering for long after the day. Serve him breakfast in bed (with you on the menu as dessert), pack a picnic basket filled with exotic goodies (think strawberries and cream, oysters and other aphrodisiacs) and head to a romantic spot, spoil him with a luxurious full body massage (qualification not necessary) or be his slave for the day. Even tickets to his favourite sports event or a music concert will score you points. You get the picture. Often these “gifts” are far more appreciated than soap-on-a-rope.

If however you would like to treat him to something he can have and hold, you’ll be relieve to know that often the most expensive gifts aren’t always the best. Buy him something that appeals to his interests and that he’ll use often – with you in mind of course. Think music, mp3 players, grooming products, power tools, DVDs, a nice watch, or if he loves pets, a new puppy or kitten.

Sometimes the best gifts however, are the ones that cannot be spent or forgotten – things that will always be there to remind him of you. Towels or bath robes with his initials embroidered on it, a personalised mouse pad, a framed picture of the two of you for his desk, or even a personalised snow globe with small photographs of the two of you floating about are ideal. Anything to remind him of you…

Gifts for her
Unlike men, who wouldn’t mind as much if they weren’t to receive a gift, Valentine’s gifts for her are crucial, often overlooked contributors to a fruitful relationship. If you forget to get her something on Valentine’s Day, consider yourself in the dogbox…for a very long time.

And not just any gift will do. One needs to consider the stage of the relationship and buy accordingly. For example, if your relationship is in its early days, overtly sexual gifts will not go down well. Similarly, if your relationship is fairly mature, a stuffed toy would be inappropriate.

So, where to from here?

Most women are hopeless romantics, so even though all the above may sound daunting, just showing your thoughtful, romantic side will go a long way. Start with a big bunch of her favourite flowers – one can never go wrong with flowers no matter how clichéd it may sound. Then be sure to spoil her rotten by taking her out for dinner, organising a romantic picnic for just the two of you, or opt for a gift that will blow her away (no, not a hairdryer).

A few ideas for buying on a budget include pamper vouchers (think massage, pedicure or manicure), tickets to her favourite event, jewellery, perfume or if you’re really brave, offer to pamper her yourself. Aromatherapy oils are inexpensive, and a massage from her man is always welcome (and may lead to unexpected rewards).

If you’re looking to spend a bit more on your lady, which is always welcome, look at ordering personalised jewellery, or surprise her at work with a special delivery. And if you’re just not sure, ask a female friend or relative for a few ideas.

Obviously, if you’re not yet married the ultimate, most romantic thing you could do on Valentine’s Day is to pop the question!

Good luck!

Gifts Glorious Gifts | Wedding Articles