Original Valentines Day Gifts Ideas

From LoveToKnow Dating

Sure, flowers and chocolates are traditional gifts, but wouldn't you rather be remembered for your original Valentine's Day gift ideas?

A hot air balloon ride or another unique experience can be an unforgettable Valentine's gift.

LoveToKnow Dating Tips
Pay Attention
Show your significant other you've been paying attention by getting her something you know is on her must-have list. Watch where his eye lingers while you're shopping, or purchase the latest release from his favorite author. Details matter in finding the ideal gift for that special someone.

A Few Original Valentine's Day Gift Ideas

Give a Unique Experience

The gift of a unique experience can create priceless memories. Think hot air balloon rides, skydiving, a cruise, tickets to a big concert, or a special class related to the recipient's interests. Check your local phone book or search online for available options in your area. The community news section of the newspaper may also list classes and upcoming performances in your town. Great American Days is a company specializing in these kinds of gifts, with race car driving experiences and rock star camps. However, not every package is for the adventurous. You can also purchase spa days and cooking lessons.

Gift Baskets

While pre-packaged, manufactured Valentine's Day gift baskets are plentiful in February, a carefully assembled gift basket can show your girlfriend or boyfriend how much you care. Instead of buying a bath and body gift basket from a department store, buy her lotions and perfume sprays in her favorite scent and combine them in a basket. Give him a small bucket with golf balls, tees, and an instructional video instead of generic chocolates. Small touches can make a big difference.

Personalize It

Check out this slideshow for more gift ideas

Add a unique edge to a standard gift with personalization. Things Remembered offers personalized gifts online and in local stores, with everything from monogrammed throws to engraved business card cases. Find customizable key chains, beer glasses, and more at Lillian Vernon. Jewelers will often carry a small selection of engraved gift items, like trinket boxes and bracelets. Add a special message for even more impact.

Shop Specialty Stores

Stores devoted to a special hobby or interest can provide original Valentine's gift ideas. For instance, ThinkGeek sells gifts for the computer nerd, sci-fi geek, or science lover in your life. The site's Valentine's Day gift page includes ideas like a flashing LED heart and a T-shirt with a chocolate molecule design. Whether your loved one is a wine connoisseur or a stamp collector, turn to a retailer specializing in that hobby for great gift ideas.

Valentine's Day Creative Ideas

Get Crafty

Use your crafting skills to create one-of-a-kind gifts for your Valentine:

"Sweet Dreams" pillow – Select your favorite photo of the two of you or create a collage of pictures from throughout your relationship. Use iron-on transfer paper to print digital versions of these images. Iron the photo on a pillowcase and write a romantic message with fabric paint or markers.
Knitted or crocheted scarf – Include a printed message with your handcrafted gift saying, "You warm my heart" or a similar sentiment.
Romantic award – Do you have the world's best boyfriend or is your girlfriend the most beautiful woman in the world? Immortalize these thoughts by giving your significant other an award. You can print a certificate or add a new plaque to an old trophy.
Box of love – Cut out strips of paper and write a Valentine's message on each one. You can write love quotes, reasons why you love the person, and other romantic thoughts. Fold the slips of paper and place them in a small decorative box.