Dear Abby: Valentine’s Day will be here in a little over two weeks and I still have no idea what to get for my partner! With my ex, who I dated for three years, it was easy. Now, I’m in this sort of situationship. What does one even do for that kind of relationship? SOS, please help!
Oh, Valentine’s Day: a special holiday for those in love and those trying to get some love.
In the grand scheme of things, it might seem like an arbitrary holiday — it’s not nationally recognized, and no one gets a day off.
However, that’s where the true test of a relationship comes in: how do you make an effort to show your partner love while still managing your everyday life?
Depending on what stage your relationship is in, this holiday can be a minefield of awkwardness — or a potential goldmine of romance. Many wonder: what should you get that special someone for Valentine’s Day?
Committed Couples
Valentine’s Day is the Superbowl of holidays for serious relationships. Whether it’s been one year or five — it’s your time to shine.
Not everything can be wrapped up with a bow, but some things can. If you’re in the market for tangible gifts, listen up.
Stores like Target and CVS line their shelves with teddy bears holding boxes of chocolates — they’re the go-to spot for last-minute gifts. While there’s nothing wrong with these sections, if you’ve been in a relationship for over a year, you need to put some thought into what you give.
- Jellycats
Unlike the mass-produced, poorly made teddy bears sold at a grocery store, Jellycat is a new high-quality stuffed toy brand that has an array of merchandising. From Amuseables to Bag Charms, this brand is distinct.
Its characters can be individualized to the personality of the person you’re giving them to. It even offers a limited edition Valentine’s collection — how could you pass such a cute opportunity up?
2. Flowers
It seems obvious, but many forget how meaningful flowers are. However, anyone can find a premade bouquet at the nearest Star Market.
A personalized flower arrangement that includes their favorite types and colors can win your lover over. Even though Brattle Square Florist in Cambridge has higher prices for their bouquets, they do create beautiful and personalized selections.
It also doesn’t have to break the bank — Trader Joe’s sells individual — and affordable — bouquets you can rearrange. I would suggest putting these in cute wrapping or a decorative vase.
3. Experiences
Like I said, some things you can’t wrap up with a bow. I think some of the best gifts are ones you can experience. If you’re trying to get something for the person who has everything, try getting them a reservation to their favorite restaurant or a concert ticket.
I would also look into the laser light shows offered by The Museum of Science. Tickets are relatively cheap, and if you like music, it seems like it could be a magical time.
4. Something homemade
Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to let your creativity shine. After all, the thought is what really counts on Valentine’s Day. Pinterest has perfect inspiration for all things DIY, so make a card, a collage of pictures or a journal of all your best shared moments.
5. Something sweet
You can’t go wrong with chocolate on Valentine’s Day, but let’s get creative. There are a million places in Boston that specialize in sweet treats, from L.A. Burdick to Edible Arrangements. They can dip anything in chocolate, so think about what things your partner already likes.
6. What’s something you already love about them?
A good way to look at gifting is this: how can you contribute to something you already love about your partner? Whether it’s their style, their scent or the bling they accessorize with — you can make a thoughtful gift out of things they love.
Jewelry, fun t-shirts and perfumes are great examples of this. Think about what they would appreciate to show how much attention to detail you pay them. Remember: to be loved is to be seen.
Long Distance
Even if you can’t be physically present with your partner on the day about love, that doesn’t mean you can’t show them how much they mean to you.
In this scenario, I’d mail a care package with their favorite things and a hand-written card as if you were in close proximity. There’s also an array of services that offer flower deliveries or treat packages.
Situationship
Nothing — I’m saying that with my chest.
Perhaps I’m being too harsh, but if they haven’t committed to you, don’t do backflips to appease them. Love is all about reciprocity.
Just started dating
Sometimes, you might be in the awkward situation where you get into a relationship just before the coveted holiday. Do you go casual? Do you shower them with gifts? How do you celebrate a day about love if you haven’t even said it to each other yet?
I would recommend steering clear of the word altogether, but this is the chance where you get to flex your attention to detail. Pick out their favorite candy, take them out to dinner or plan a fun outing. Experience gifts are the perfect choice because they can be made more serious or more casual.
Single
If there was ever a time to “treat yo’ self,” Feb. 14 would be that day. I hate that people think true love exists in the form of a romantic partner when it’s constantly surrounding us.
Get yourself dinner, buy something you’ve been eyeing or if you’re like Ask Abby — buy a pair of shoes. Consider banding together with some of your single friends and being each other’s Valentine.
Ultimately, Valentine’s Day isn’t about gifts, it’s really about the effort we put in to display our adoration. Which, I think, we should be doing 365 days anyway.
