Celebrate Love

Valentine’s Day is there for all of the couples around the world. It’s that one day where you’re expected to make an extra effort for your partner. Although some would expect extra effort every day, Valentine’s should be that extra bit special. 

The two most common gifts bought for Valentine’s Day are chocolate and flowers, which I personally think is a bit dull. Why not make that ‘extra effort’ this year to show that you really do care about your partner? A lot of people tell me that it’s just ‘another excuse for shops to get money’. Who said you need to spend much money? I’ve picked out some of the best ideas to make your loved one appreciate you and your relationship without breaking the bank balance:

Make a Song 

Nothing can win someone’s heart more than a song made for them that is genuine & from the heart. Unfortunately we can’t all sing like Justin Bieber or Mariah Carey- but if you’ve got the talent, use it!

Write a Poem 

If you don’t have that musical flair, you could try writing a poem. This could be very simple, comical and charming. It doesn’t have to be Shakespeare standards, but will definitely put a smile on someone’s face!  

Write a Love Letter 

If you feel a poem is just too cheesy or not ‘your style’, why not write a letter? This will be a bit longer than a poem, but could really give you a chance to open yourself to your loved one. A lot of people find it hard to really express their emotions, but this may really help. Try writing a draft first, then handwrite it again and make it look all nice and pretty

 

Cook a Dinner
Restaurants can be extra-pricey on Valentine’s Day. They’re also busy and cramped. Why not cook for your partner? A nice candle-lit meal with some wine and without any interruptions is like a dream-come-true for most!

Whatever you decide to do this Valentine’s day, make it a special one that you won’t forget. Money can’t buy you love. Make an effort and show that you care, that’s what love is all about.

Celebrate. You have a reason too!

10 best gifts for any occasion

Unless they expressly point out something they want, it’s not always easy to buy a suitable present for a friend or family member. Nevertheless, there are some gifts that are relatively safe bets regardless of the occasion.

Buying a gift is easy. The hard work lies in finding something the recipient actually wants. Occasion-based gifts are, more often than not, useless. A Christmas tie, a Valentine’s Day heart-shaped cushion – nobody really wants these things.

Instead, seek out information about the intended recipient. Discover what they like and dislike and make an informed decision. A thoughtful gift tailored to a person’s preferences will make them happy and speaks volumes about the giver.

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Food

Regardless of their figure, or lack thereof, everyone has to eat. Tailor the food item to the person and it can make the perfect gift. For example, buy some raw chocolate for the eco-minded person or a kosher food hamper for a Jewish person.

Drink

This doesn’t necessarily have to mean alcohol – check whether the recipient drinks or not first. If they have a favoured tipple, then indulge it. A fine bottle of wine, a good single malt whisky or even locally sourced ale will inevitably be well received. For non-drinkers, some quality coffee or an unusual selection of teas can prove appropriate.

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Experience

One of the most modern developments in the gift world is the rise of the activity or ‘experience’ voucher. These enable the recipient to enjoy an array of once-in-a-lifetime experiences that range from racing supercars to bungee jumping. Those unsure about the particular tastes of the recipient are able to buy open vouchers that enable them to make the choice.

Clothes

This comes with a number of caveats. Don’t impose your own taste on others. Ideally, find out from someone else what the recipient is hankering after and buy it for them.

Hobby-related

Everyone has a hobby, however small. Buying something related to it is a considerate present. Make sure however that it’s useful. For example, a sailor will appreciate some good quality rope, but will be less likely to appreciate socks with a picture of a boat on them.

Time

Most people would like more time to do the things they like doing. Give your time as a gift. Take on some of their chores or find someone else to. If they have kids, offer to babysit. If they’re too busy to cook, take them out for a meal. Draw the line at doing their accounts.

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Luxury items

Indulgent items that cannot be rationally justified are often the best gifts. Carry out some research beforehand to ensure that the investment isn’t wasted.

Money

The classic cheque in the post always goes down well, and allows the recipient to buy something they truly want. For an unusual take on the idea, buy some stocks or shares in an area the recipient is interested in.

Gift card

A more personalised take on the money idea is to buy a gift card. Ideally, find out where the recipient likes to shop first. If that’s not possible, opt for somewhere that sells a variety of goods, such as a department store.

Request

The most obvious solution to the present buying quandary is to ask the person what he or she would like. Not everyone likes surprises. Many actively dislike them – especially when it comes to presents.

Resource Box:

Gifts to avoid

10 of the worst gift gaffes.

Gifts for him

50 best gifts for men.

Gifts for her

100+ gifts for women.