How to Make Valentine's Day Special
Stay Out of the Doghouse This Valentine's and Make Someone's Day
Nov 26, 2008
Statistics show that 73% of flowers are received by women while men only receive 27%. Another interesting fact shows that women receive more chocolate than men. It might be a safe bet that women like receiving flowers and chocolate on Valentine's Day, why not show that special someone how special they are by doing something unique for the holiday?
Gift-giving on Valentine's Day might seem like a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. Yes, there are tales of Valentine's Day gone wrong, and even the dark side of Valentine's Day, such as Anti-Valentine's Day, but for the most part, lovers are sincere in their desire of wanting to do something special for their loved ones. Try starting with a heart-felt card and flowers and expand from there.
Valentine's Day Gifts for Women
- Romantic getaway for two
- Gift certificate for a day at the spa
- Gourmet meal prepared by a personal chef service
- Hire a maid for the day or week and let her put her feet up
- Offer to be her maid on a day of her choosing
- Concert, Play, or Movie tickets
- Horse & carriage ride through the park
- Plan a romantic geocaching treasure hunt with the gift as the prize
- Jewelry. Still an oldie but a goodie.
- Commission a painting for her.
- Digital photo frame featuring photos of the two of you
When shopping for a women, look for clues that she may have left lying around. Perhaps there is a magazine, catalog, or sales circular with an item she's circled. When out shopping with her, watch which items she gravitates toward. Even if she says she doesn't want anything, make sure you buy her something, even if it's just chocolate and flowers.
Gifts to Avoid Giving to Women
- Cookware or kitchen appliances. Women don't want anything that reminds them of work.
- Lingerie. Unless she's specifically requested it, she may feel that it's all about what he wants.
- Gift cards. A woman may feel that it shows a lack of thought.
- Robe & slippers. These may be good for mom, but steer away from them otherwise.
Women often agonize over what to get a man for the holiday, but men aren't really from Mars and they do tend to like many of the same activities that women do. They might not be up for a relaxing day at the spa, but there are many other things they enjoy.
Valentine's Day Gifts for Men
- Tickets to a sporting event or concert
- Scuba diving, rock climbing, or sky diving lessons
- A free Any-Time Certificate to spend an evening out with the guys
- Romantic Dinner
- Leather jacket
- Accessories for his car or motorcycle
- DVD or video game
- Subscription to his favorite magazine
- Flowers. Surprisingly, most men say they would enjoy receiving flowers.
- Buy him an autographed copy or rare issue of his favorite childhood comic book (or graphic novel as they're known by today's terminology).
Women need to watch their man for clues as well. Guys tend to be more visual than women, so pay attention to what catches his eye when he's watching television or reading a magazine. Imagine how delighted he'll be upon receiving a gift that's right up his alley. He'll definitely understand and appreciate the effort.
Gifts Men Might Not Like
- Ties
- Socks
- Sweaters
- Underwear
- Tools. Unless they've specifically requested them, men might feel like an endless "honey-do" list is on the way.
With just a little effort, planning a special Valentine's Day is easy. The best gift of all is one that comes from the heart. It doesn't even have to be expensive or sparkly to show someone how important they are. A hand-penned valentine's card, for instance, can touch the heart of that special someone in ways that a purchased gift can't. Just plan from the heart, relax, and enjoy a successful Valentine's Day.
Sources: American Floral Endowment Consumer Tracking
Chocolate Manufacturer's Association
