How to Choose the Perfect Valentine's Day Gift

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Choosing the right Valentine's Day gift can be a little daunting because a lot of pressure is put on this holiday. Unfortunately, because this holiday is very commercialized, finding the right Valentine's Day gift for your significant other can be stressful. However, if you're feeling nervous about picking out the right V-Day gift, here are some tips to make the process a little easier. 

5 Tips for Choosing the Right Valentine’s Day Gift

1.     Don’t be predictable. The first step to finding a good Valentine's Day gift is to skip on all the predictable options. Unless your significant other directly ask for flowers or chocolate, then you should consider something more unique. Of course, even if they do ask for flowers and chocolate, you should still purchase them something that they're not expecting. 

2.    Consider what your significant other likes. Some of the best Valentine's Day gifts are gifts that are specific to your significant other’s personality and interests. In this case, picking the perfect gift can take a little research, but if you know your partner really well, then it won't be difficult to find a gift they will appreciate.

3.    Make something personalized. One way to ensure your gift is unique is to purchase something that is personalized. Personalized gifts can be a variety of things, from necklaces and bracelets to custom bears or notebooks. These types of gifts usually need to be ordered well in advance, but if you can't get a commercially personalized gift, you can always personalize something yourself. 

4.    Match the gift with the stage of your relationship. If this is your first Valentine's Day with your significant other or you recently entered into a new relationship, then it may not be a good idea to spend a lot of money on the V-day gift. Spending over $50 can be a little overwhelming for new relationships, but on the other hand, spending too little in a long-term relationship can say something unintentionally negative as well. If you are open to having a conversation about Valentine's Day spends, then you and your significant other can pick a maximum amount for V-day gifts. Otherwise, stick with a gift amount fitting for the length of time you have been with your partner.

5.    Keep your budget in mind. Lastly, don't forget your own budget. You don't need to go into debt getting Valentine's Day gifts for your partner. They won't appreciate it, and you will be unhappy. If you don't have the extra money to go all-out on a fancy Valentine's Day date or Valentine's Day gift, there are ways to make this holiday more budget-friendly. Cooking at home is a great way to mitigate the cost of a nice dinner at a restaurant, and renting movies or making dessert together can save money while providing evening entertainment. 

No matter how you and your partner decide to celebrate Valentine's Day, picking the right gift is an important part of this annual holiday. If you're not a good gift giver or you just feel overwhelmed by the process, then these five tips will help you pick out a perfect V-day gift that makes your partner happy, makes you happy, and doesn't break the bank. Remember, Valentine's Day isn't about the biggest and best gift; it's about spending time with the person you love. 

AllColleen Mallon