The big day that is filled with chocolates, hearts, and romance is almost here. This day, for many guys, is also one that is a conundrum. If you’re a guy who strives to be thoughtful, and who desires to make your woman feel like she’s the only one around, then you don’t want to get her the ordinary cliché gifts. Now, I know Valentine’s Day is not only for the women, but I think we can all agree that for the most part it is marketed to you fellas! So, because I have insight into the female gender, I’m going to give you lads a few tips on how to be original this V-Day. Hopefully, this will score you some points with your lady. If not, don’t show her where your ideas came from.
First and foremost: Plan ahead in order to thoughtfully prepare for your lady. Don’t wait until the last minute to fret about what you should get your woman. Trust me, guys, we can tell. We’re not dumb. If you come home with a box of Russell Stover’s, and a bear that resembles the ones in Wal-Mart, don’t expect too much enthusiasm out of us.
Money won’t buy her happiness. If this is the case you may want to click out of this article and perhaps find another woman—if you’re married, marriage counseling is always a great gift. I digress. My point: time will (and should) always trump anything monetary. For instance, planning an event for every weekend of February would be a spectacular idea. You could even mix up the events so she has to choose out of a bowl blindfolded. Be creative! It doesn’t have to be expensive, but it does have to be something you both will enjoy. Creating memories is priceless.
Snail mail is underrated. We live in an era where texting, emailing, and instant messaging are the form of communication. Heck, letters are old school—right? Wrong. I love getting random love notes from my fiancé. It takes more time and thought than a speedily typed email and the simple click of a mouse. Plus, for me, the thought of knowing he has touched the letter holds an intimacy that is just downright romantic. Men, if you’re not too eloquent with words then try finding a poem that fits your relationship. And yes, send her a letter even if you live with her! Tell her how you feel and don’t be shy. Women love vulnerability. It fulfills the knight on a white horse imagery we dream about. Also, if you’re of the daring kind write a letter for every day of the month and date each. She’ll have one to open everyday. Finally, don’t forget to spray it with your cologne!
Stay traditional if you’re too scared to venture out. Women love to be wined and dined. It’s true. Take her to the restaurant where you had your first date. Or take her to a new one – signaling new beginnings and new adventures up ahead! Make reservations for a private table. Don’t forget to scoot the chair out for her and open those car doors! We love chivalry. I suggest buying her her favorite flowers. Everyone gets their woman roses for Valentine’s Day—but if that isn’t your significant other’s favorite, then get her what she most loves. It’ll impress her that you remembered! An alternative to eating out would be cooking her a romantic candlelit dinner in front of a fireplace. Make sure you know her favorite meal and surprise her by cooking it. Personally, I’d rather this than eating out at a restaurant. It’s especially intimate and best yet, men, you don’t have to tip!
If you’re an old pro at this and been together for awhile surprise her with her best friend. No, no, not a dog….a dog is MAN’S best friend. Diamonds, silly! Haha, hopefully that isn’t truly her best friend, but most women DO love diamonds. They are an accessory that can be worn with everything. Do some research and ask your woman in advance what she likes. Please be discreet or you’ll give away the surprise!
Lingerie is always an option. Pair it with something thoughtful as well (see above). After all, it isn’t JUST for her. Of course, I only recommend this gift if you’re married. This would be a great addition to any evening out at a restaurant or especially if you made a home cooked meal for her. Women love frilly things and it is the one holiday you can get away with buying us lingerie! Side note: do not buy us lingerie for Christmas or birthdays. Would you like it if we bought you men a hammer with a “honey-do” list attached? That’s what I thought.
Finally, and most importantly, have FUN with your gift! You know your woman best and what gift(s) will fit her personality perfectly. Go with your instincts and channel your creativity. Be thoughtful and never be cliché. Good luck and have a happy early Valentine’s Day!
Why is it one sided? Shouldn’t the lady do something for her man? I happen to treat my wife (of 43 years) very well, but so does she to me. Valentine’s Day is for both people. BTW, I bring dinner in and light candles, etc. I give her flowers and a gift and she gives me a gift also. Consider this one man’s opinion!
I never said it is one-sided. But, because I AM a woman, I decided to write from my perspective. I mentioned that in the beginning of the article. I know best what women like because I am a woman. Just an article that is from my perspective. Trust me, Jon has no complaints in the area of gifts on V-Day. We both exchange them.
And that’s great! I’m sure she is very satisfied with your romantic overtures. I encourage men to do more of this…and not just on a consumer driven holiday.
My parents never really did Valentines Day, it was not a big deal here in Australia growing up, but seems to be getting bigger here now.
My husband and I don’t do much for it. I like to make him a nice meal, something out of the ordinary and we might watch a movie or something together. I am not a big one for buying gifts because of a set day (this was my dads opinion), but prefer to surprise my husband throughout the year.
I love your tips though.
Kylie, yeah I think it is silly we have to adhere to a silly holiday to give gifts. I’m with you on that. I think we should be spontaneous in our gift giving! And that is awesome you live in Australia. I have always wanted to visit. Do you just love it!?
Thanks for reading, Kylie!
How about dinner at home with lots of candles, dim lights, and music? That way, the money saved on dinner can go towards a bigger gift!! YAY
I definitely recommend that. I am a simple girl myself and thoughtfulness goes a long way. What about even making that romantic dinner TOGETHER! Homemade gifts are the best! Thanks for reading, Clare.
Good job Hannah writing this article! I agree that most women appreciate the time and thoughtfulness put into the dates and presents that their men take time to plan. The time factor can mean the most! Ron and I like to exchange meaningful cards which say what we feel, better than how we could say them.
Cindy
Thanks, Cindy!! Glad you’re reading — I am sure Jon is thrilled too. I LOVE cards. Jon always said you told him growing up that he would marry a woman who loved cards so he had better get used to it. Haha, you were right! He sends them consistently now. Thoughtfulness goes much further than monetary gifts, in my opinion. Thanks for reading
I generally get a mixture of gifts for my girlfriend, but i’ll be frugal where i can.
My girlfriend loves Koalas so i bought her a pack of 6 little colorful koala erasers and gave her one each day leading up to valentines day with a little love note attached. Turn something simple and inexpensive into something sentimental. Great post, thanks!