Gift giving on Valentine’s Day can be a minefield. Of course, for those in a happy, stable relationships it could be less dangerous territory, but then again, if you want the relationship to stay happy, putting a little bit of thought into your gift might be a good idea. However, in spite of what many would like you to believe, you don’t have to spend obscene amounts of money on Valentine’s Day gifts. Of course, if you are in a position to spend obscene amounts, don’t let me stand in your way, but for the rest of us, here are a couple of ideas.

Chocolates

Now although this is a classic, there are a couple of pitfalls here. Not just any old slab of chocolate will do, unless you are still six years old. And unless you know your Valentine’s exact likes and dislikes when it comes to chocolates, don’t commit to a box containing only one type. So go for variety and you are likely to be safe.

Flowers

Another classic, and for a good reason. However, remember that some colours or flowers have meanings attached to them. Your date may not know the meaning, but if you give her a bunch of yellow roses, and she knows it signifies friendship, you might just have sealed your romantic fate right there. However, on the other end of the scale, the classic dozen red roses might be a bit over the top for a first date, so give it a bit of thought. And remember, this is a very busy time of year for florists, so don’t decide on the day you want to give her flowers, as you are likely to end up either empty handed or with something that sends the wrong message.

Romantic getaway

Now this is definitely not appropriate for a first date, not even if you know this person is your soul mate.

However, for those in a committed relationships, a romantic getaway, even if just for one evening, could be just what you need to reignite the spark in your relationship, or just change things up a bit.

Spa day

Whether you decide to give a spa day to your partner, or get a couple’s spa day, it is bound to be a treasured gift. Giving a spa day shows you care about the person you’re giving it to, while a couple’s day is the perfect way to relax and get closer together. Of course, not the ideal option if you do not know the person well yet, but in a longer term relationship it is a great way to take some special couple time.

Jewellery

Whether a pretty pendant or extravagant earrings, jewellery is always a hit, but is generally best reserved for a committed relationship. And giving someone a ring on Valentine’s Day may sound like a great idea, but be sure that you will not be forever left to look back of the most romantic day of the year as the day that special someone said ‘Let me think about it’.

Buy a gift for someone else

Strange, yes, but hear me out – in a new relationship you might not be first on that other person’s list yet.

Quite often, there is a dog or cat (or some other creature) that has been there for them for far longer than you have (and gets to spend the night every night). So it might be an idea to get a Valentine’s gift for the pet in the life of the someone in your life. Quirky, yes, but it does show you care about the things the other person cares about. And once the pet likes you, you have a much better chance of the relationship moving forward – there is nothing worse than being attacked by the dog every time you come over for a visit.   WH