Valentines Gift Ideas

It's that time of year again when we are all in search of the ultimate Valentines Gift ideas for that special day. Valentines Day comes year after year and let's face it most of us are reduced to uninspired purchases such as heart shaped chocolates, flowers, or we get really desperate and buy the all popular red teddy bear. You're not alone we have all made the mistake of repeat gift giving for no other reason than...last minute shopping.

Last minute shopping is at an all time high for most occasions including Valentines day and Christmas. Statistics revealed that the majority of Americans only start their shopping at least two days before the big day. Does this mean that we are living mechanically, barely getting through the daily grind, or are we just simply uninspired?

Most of us live in a blur of events, a hustle and bustle that weaves our existence from one day to the next. Work, school, kids, programs, birthdays, holidays...there's so much going on that we live uninspired lives.

Well it's never too late. You can still pull it together if you allow yourself to be inspired with new and original Valentines gift ideas. Start by taking some time to really absorb the richness of the holiday. It's a day of love, of appreciation for those we care for. It's a day set aside from all other days when we can stand up to the plate and really declare our love for that special someone.

You need a plan before you go into a store and succumb to buying something you didn't give any thought to. Think about the one you love and how that person makes you feel. Your gift should reflect that. Think about what that person values, what they treasure and what will put a smile on their face.

Here are a few Valentines gift ideas that might inspire you to reach a little further to make somebody's day one they will never forget.

1. Write a love letter and attach it to your present - this way you're not just signing your name to something someone else wrote. (If you want to add to that you can spray the envelope with a romantic scent to create the mood).

2. Make a coupon book - you can get as creative as you want!

3. Valentines Day treasure hunt - leave notes with clues your special someone can follow that will lead them to a special treasure.

4. Put together a basket - with a theme of course, filled with treasures like candles, wine and other trinkets.

5. Turn a picture into a painting - you can have a painting created from a photo done right at your local photo developing studio.

6. Valentine Love Plaque - cards gets stored in drawers and boxes but a plaque hangs on a wall or shelf where it can be read everyday.

Whatever way you choose to celebrate the holiday make it count for something special. Get inspired, be inventive, and most importantly, give from the heart!
About the Author

Tammy Corbett is the chief marketing advisor for Worldwide Novelty Gifts where you can find a variety of gift ideas online.

Valentine Gifts for Women

Valentine's Day: the day most people both love and dread at the same time. Most women spend the week before wondering what their sweet will buy for them. When the day arrives, women sit anxiously at their desks waiting for a delivery. They shoot daggers with their eyes at other women who get balloons, bouquets, candy, and stuffed animals, secretly wishing that they themselves were receiving these gifts. I am not one of these women. I hate Valentine's Day! Why must we declare a day for our loved one to buy us things? Does conforming to society's expectations really show that my boyfriend loves me? Does missing this day mean that he doesn't care? My boyfriend does things for me throughout the year. He buys me gifts, takes me out, cooks for me, spends time just watching TV with me. When I'm sick he takes care of me. All of these things are done because he wants to do them, not because society deems that it should be so. He doesn't forget Valentine's Day, but he doesn't make it anymore special than any other day he chooses to do something special for me. I'm not saying that you shouldn't observe Valentine's Day, but it should be about your feelings for that person and not about what's on sale on Wal-Mart's candy aisle. That being said, here is a list of things my boyfriend has done for me. They weren't all on Valentine's Day, and they weren't all store bought or sent from a florist. However, they were special to me. 1: He made me dinner. I know that sounds clich?, but it's really nice. You're spending time together, and he gets to show off his cooking skills for you. 2: He made me something. My boyfriend likes to hunt, and he's really good at it. Not only do I get venison whenever I want it, but he also makes carvings out of the antlers. 3: He taught me something. Growing up, I never had the opportunity to learn to drive a stick shift. No one I knew had one, but his truck is a stick shift. He'd heard me telling a friend that I couldn't drive one, so he surprised me by making a date to teach me. It was the most fun I'd ever had with him up to that point. I'm not saying that your boyfriend shouldn't buy you things or take you places. Mine does. However, I will say that I remember more details about the random 2:00 A.M. run to White Castle much more than I remember the birthday dinner at my favorite Japanese restaurant.

By Shyla Martin

Top 5 Valentine Gifts that Are Guaranteed to Win Her Heart

If you're like the countless numbers of men out there desperately searching for the perfect gift for that special woman for Valentine's Day then look no further, this list of valentine gifts are guaranteed to make her think you're the most amazing man on the planet.And we all know what that means.Guaranteed Gift #1: Original CompositionI know what you're thinking, and don't cringe. Valentine's Day is all about showing off your sappy side and letting loose with some romantic flair. What better way to show how romantic you can be then by composing your own poem or song for that special woman in your life.Even if you aren't the most creatively inclined person in the world, chances are that you know how to rhyme, and if you don't then there are millions of websites out there that can help you put together a poetic tribute for the special girl in your life.Guaranteed Gift #2: Romantic DinnerIt seems simple, but it's probably the most amazing thing in the world. Plan a special dinner for just the two of you either at a romantic restaurant or at home alone. What makes this gift so special is that you have to make it a complete surprise.Leave a post-it note on the bathroom mirror, or send a text message to her phone instructing her to be dressed and ready at a certain time. The mystery and suspense of your plans will bring out excitement in her that you never knew existed.

Throw in the bonus of reciting your original composition during dinner and watch her heart melt before your eyes.Guaranteed Gift #3: Fairytale KidnappingEvery girl's fantasy is to be swept off of her feet by her very own prince charming, and Valentine's Day is the perfect time to show her that you're the man for the job. Organize a romantic getaway for the two of you, even if its just a local hotel, and spend the night away from all of the normal distractions.Arrange to pick her up or meet her after work, and then sweep her away to a room already decorated with candles and flower petals. Not only will you be her knight in shining armor, but she'll feel like a real princess!Guaranteed Gift #4: Something PersonalThis guaranteed gift means that you really have to know the person you want to sweep away, and be able to tailor an experience specific for her. Does she enjoy the theatre? Does she really like going to the movies? Does she prefer to spend quiet nights at home or does she like to party in a dance club? Whatever it is that your special person likes to do, make arrangements to spend time together doing it. Not only will she appreciate the fact that you put in the effort to do something special just for her, but you'll reap the benefits of her gratitude!Absolutely Guaranteed Gift #5: Combo PackageBy combining the other four guaranteed gifts you are 100% certain to have a Valentine's Day that you will never forget.Before you make plans for how to spend this Valentine's Day keep this in mind: Be Original, Be Creative, Get Lucky! By Heather

Top 5 Gifts to Avoid for Valentine's Day

If you're a man desperately looking for the perfect gift for Valentine's Day this year it's going to be far to easy to fall into the trap of buying a traditional gift. While traditional gifts still hold some merit, they are likely to not be considered the "perfect" gift by any woman.What's a guy to do?Here are five gifts that you should avoid at all costs if you want to win her heart forever, or if you want to make sure that you don't lose it!Traditional Gift #1: CandyI don't care if the woman of your dreams is the biggest choc-o-holic, candy as a primary gift is never a good idea, especially if it comes packaged in one of those cheesy cardboard hearts with a plastic flower glued to the top. When a woman receives candy for Valentine's Day it sends the immediate message that you didn't think enough about the holiday, or her, to buy something more personal.If you're set on buying candy for your Valentine, do so with extreme caution - and with a much better gift in your other hand.Traditional Gift #2: LingerieWhile it might seem cute, and even a bit on the sexy side, the chances that you'll get the size, color, and style choices all right are slim to none. Even if you happen to be lucky enough to nail the trifecta in lingerie then the gift will immediately send out the message that the only reason you took the time to think about the holiday, or her, is because you were hoping to get lucky. Trust me, even if you were about to get lucky, your chances will greatly diminish once she realizes that's what you were after.

If, however, you've already made that special trip to an over priced lingerie store then don't panic. Your naughty gift will be received a lot better as long as you pair it with something more sentimental.Traditional Gift #3: FlowersRepeat after me: FLOWERS ARE AN ACCESSORY - NOT A GIFT.If you think you're going to get away with only giving your special girl a dozen roses for Valentine's Day then you're crazy. During Valentine's Day, flowers are viewed a lot the same as candy, with the exception of the calories. This traditional stand-by gift will only get you labeled as someone who didn't care enough to give a gift with more of a meaning.If you're planning to give your special girl a dozen roses for Valentine's Day, then I would highly suggest reading this article: How to Make a Dozen Roses Romantic.Traditional Gift #4: JewelryJewelry is a tricky one, so take this warning gift with a bit of a warning. The only reason you should buy jewelry for a Valentine's Day gift is if it's something that has been specifically requested, otherwise you're likely to get it wrong. Sizes, styles and types of jewelry are so varied that you really have to know what you're purchasing in order for it to be the perfect gift.If you're still certain that jewelry is the way to go, then pay attention to the woman you're buying for. Does she wear jewelry? Did she recently break or lose a piece that she was particularly fond of? Does she prefer to wear gold or silver? The answers to these questions will become critical if you're planning on picking out something perfect. If you aren't sure of these answers, then steer away from the jewelry counter and look for something else.Traditional Gift #5: CandyI know I already used this one, but it's so important that I had to use it again.For the love of all that is sacred, stay away from the box of assorted chocolates with the cheesy plastic flower.Now that you're totally confused about what to buy that special woman in your life for the most romantic of holidays, I would highly recommend checking out my article on Top 5 Valentine Gifts that are Guaranteed to Win Her Heart. By Heather

Thoughtful Valentine Gifts for Elderly Loved Ones

When selecting an inexpensive Valentine's Day gift for an elderly person you may be clueless as to what to buy. What if you elderly friend or loved one already has everything he (or she) needs? On the other hand, you're, struggling financially, on a budget, yet you want your gift to be special.Keep in mind that as people grow older, expensive gifts lose their value. What once brought a smile now just doesn't matter once you near the end of your life. That's how I felt when I used to give gifts to my aging parents and in-laws, all of whom have since passed away. Yet, when I selected those special gifts that touched their hearts, I was rewarded with smiling faces, feeling good that my gifts were meaningful to them. Here are a few suggestions when buying thoughtful, inexpensive gifts for your elderly friends and loved ones.Photo AlbumsGather some recent family pictures of his children and grandchildren, as well as other loved ones and display them creatively in an attractive photograph album, noting who's who and when and where the pictures were taken. Besides recent pictures, also, dig up old family albums with childhood friends and relative of your senior friend and then review the photos with him. For example, find pictures of him and his family when he was young. I recall how my father-in-law (who struggled with dementia) couldn't tell you what he had for breakfast, but could identify everyone in an old family photography that was at least half a century old.

Personalized Wall CalendarsSelect a large wall calendar with print large enough so even seniors with the poorest eyesight can read it. Rather than buy a ready-made calendar, check into calendars that can be made with family pictures featured for each month. Then, circle the days of the year when family members will celebrate birthdays and other special occasions. Alongside each name, include telephone numbers so your senior friend can call them, wishing them well on their birthdays.MagnifiersFor those elderly folks who are struggling with declining eyesight, give an assortment of magnifiers, so they'll be able to read without straining their eyes. A wide assortment of magnifiers can be found at department stores, as well as craft and eye care stores. Books on TapeI can't think of anything more frustrating than someone who loves to read, but isn't able to do so any more. At first when my father lost partial vision, due to a stroke he was devastated. Then, after my mom sent off for some books on tape, his world was expanded, again, as he spent hours on his front porch listening to his favorite biographies and novels. Check with your local library for books to rent, as well as buy, or go online to find them.Stationary and Postage StampsHaving stationary and postage stamps on hand is a good idea, especially if your elderly friend can't drive anymore to get to the store and post office. Also, include an address book, complete with names, addresses and phone numbers of his family members and friends.Lap RobesI remember how one Christmas I crocheted a lap robe to my father-in-law (confined to a nursing home), shortly after I learned to do the granny stitch. As older people are sensitive to cold weather, a homemade lap robe is also a practical gift. If you knit or crochet, it would mean even more, knowing you made it yourself. And, it would be inexpensive, as all you'll need is yarn. Present the lap robe with a personalized card in which you write, "As you wrap this around you, know you're wrapped in my prayers and love."Give of YourselfDetermine to make regular visits to your elderly friend's home where you not only share your life, but also ask him questions about his favorite memories. My late mother's big brown eyes would sparkle whenever I'd ask her to tell me about her courting days when the soldiers came back from the World War 2. And, she was never at a loss for stories about her college days at the University of Texas.Most of all, homebound, elderly people want your presence more than your gifts. As many older people struggle with loneliness, the gift of your time is far more precious than any costly one you can buy. By Venice Kichura

Thoughtful Valentine Gifts for BoyfriendGirlfriend and HusbandWife

Valentines gifts are, generally, associated with romantic gifts. Men usually (well hopefully) shower their women with jewelry, chocolates and flowers. Men love to receive gifts that serve a useful purpose or appeal to their interests. In addition to this, I believe that picking a thoughtful gift that you and your partner can both enjoy and share is meaningful and embraces the notion of love and appreciation for each other. In this article, I would like to recommend my 6 favorite valentine's gifts that are suitable for both men and women.Bath Pearls and Mood Glow CandlesThese are perfect gifts to wind down and relax after a long and stressful day at work. It is an opportunity to relax in the bath surrounded by colored glowing bath pearls and burning mood color candles. It is sure to get you in the mood for true relaxation and enjoyment. The bath pearl lights have a silvery, pearlescent shell and are shaped like a pearl with two sensors located on the base of each pearl. When the sensors come into contact with water, the soothing light show begins and phase through five different colors. Similarly, mood glow candles change numerous colors emitting a relaxing glow. Head and Body Trip MassagersFor totalrelaxation, why not take turns massaging each other from head to toe with the amazing Head and Body Trip Massagers. Specifically designed to stimulate your nerve endings and massage acupressure points on various parts of the body, the Head and Body Trip Massagers are sure to send shivers and quivers from head to toe.

Sterling Silver Love HeartsWe all remember one of our childhood favorites - pink candy Love Heart sweets. We all remember going through the packet and picking out our favorite love message? Brings back those warm fuzzy feelings doesn't it? Now you can spread the love with this grown up version of the classic romantic candy. Neatly packed in a simple box, this perfect replica of the classic sweet is the perfect token of affection. Made of sterling silver and hallmarked with the three precious words 'I LOVE YOU' making it perfect to give to the love of your life. They can carry it round everywhere with them as a constant reminder of your love. It's perfect to give to men or women. Chocolate and Strawberry Body PaintThis relatively inexpensive yet effective gift is a great way to add some fun on Valentine's day. The Body Pen is an erotic and sensual way to indulge your sweet tooth! Express your love by creating fun messages that are for your partner's eyes only. Body chocolate and strawberry body paint make a great gift for your romantic partner. Digital Photo Frame and Digital Photo KeychainGiving a digital photo frame or digital keychain may not seem like a very romantic gift. However, you can make this thoughtful and special by downloading some of your favorite pictures onto the keychain or frame before giving it to her or him. Imagine the smile on your partner's face when he or she opens the gift and is greeted by a beautiful picture!Jellephish Mood LampThis is one of the best pieces of contemporary ambient lighting that I've seen. The Lamp flashes numerous shades, ideal for setting the mood or providing a relaxing atmosphere with its mood changing colors for a night of love and romance.There are endless choices when it comes to picking the right Valentine's gift for your loved one. The recommendations I have provided in this article are gifts that you would buy for your partner. They are even suitable for a special or best friend who you simply want to show him or her that you are thinking of them on Valentine's day. By Alice Duong

Meaningful Valentine Gifts for a Professional Female

Valentine's Day is just around the corner, guys! (I know, I can't forget that girls should also give their guys something, but this is an article about what to get your girl.) So what are you going to give your special someone? Have you thought about it? Or will you just buy her a dozen roses the day of and take her out to dinner. Not that there's anything wrong with that- since it's wonderful just to have a nice guy these days. But, what could really make her do a double-take, and think to herself, now that guy truly loves me?1. A gift of time. Are you always on the go and only see your girlfriend once or twice a week for a couple of hours? Take off one day, and spend the whole day with her. Do whatever she wants. Go shoe shopping, go to a girly movie. Tell her she can pick the plans that day. She won't forget this gesture of kindness.2. Help with housework. Does your girlfriend have a special project that she has never completed because she just isn't up for the task? Does she need a door replaced, or a window fixed, or something like that? Do it for her. Women find this incredibly sexy, and it also scores big bonus points because she never probably would have gotten it done.3. Free massage coupons for you to give her massages. Give her a hand-made coupon book for 30 free massages for 30 days. This will have more value than a dozen roses any day. She'll get to relax and unwind for a whole month straight and it won't cost you a penny!4. A brief getaway weekend to somewhere relaxing. Professional females, such as attorneys, don't have a lot of free time. And when they do, they've got all kinds of stuff to catch up on, so much so that sometimes, it's hard to relax. So, take her away for the weekend. You could go to a ski resort, a bed and breakfast, almost anywhere!

5. An engraved locket, with a picture of you inside. Need I say more?6. Let her use something of yours that you never let her use any other time. If she's been dying to try out driving your new car, let her take it for a spin. If she has to use your new camera, let her. This shows you that you trust her, and is better than any gift.7. 10 Free "I'm being ridiculous' passes. This means, 10 times you let her off the hook for being totally absurd and out of line. If she complains incessantly one night about wanting to see a chic flic, until she starts a temper tantrum, that's one. If the next night she gets rude with a female waiter who was flirting at you, through no fault of your own, that's two. You get the point. No matter how silly, she gets ten freebies.8. Something to help with her career. If she's trying to change jobs, get her free time with a resume-building service. Or, find someone to help her design new business cards if she has her own business.9. Romance. Make her dinner, buy the roses but put the petals everywhere, and burn scented candles. 10. Be someone other than yourself. If she says you're never nice to her, be extremely nice for a week. If you always complain, spend a week with no complaints. By Christi Bowers