The International Day of Love is just around the corner and if you celebrate the occasion, let us help you give a gift that’s a little more memorable or unique than the average. Yes, chocolates and roses are always popular but they don’t tend to last more than a few days and can be SO overpriced at this time of year. Our list of non-cheesy Valentine’s Day gift ideas will create lasting memories or be cherished long term.
Keep scrolling for our list of thoughtful Valentine’s Day gift ideas that are also appropriate for any special occasion like anniversaries, birthdays or just because!
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1. Board games & entertainment: Game night reimagined
According to relationship experts, watching TV together is one of the lowest forms of intimacy. Instead, why not swap this entertainment time with a board game that encourages play and conversation? Apparently, playing games together releases oxytocin, which increases trust and bonds between partners.
Thankfully, there’s plenty of choice on the market when it comes to board games or card games…. so if checkers isn’t for you, fear not!
Popular cooperative board games for couples include Codenames: Duet, Madame Medora’s House of Curiosities and Pandemic. Or if you prefer a bit of healthy competition, Azul, Ticket to Ride, Carcassonne and Dominion are popular. You can also find relationship building games, like Love Lingual, Off Topic and The Ultimate Game for Couples.
2. Luxury bedding: Cosy elegance for sweet dreams
Spice things up in the bedroom by treating your special someone to luxe new bedding! We’re big believers that environment affects how we feel so whether you want to enhance the relaxation or romance vibes in your bedroom, new bedding is the perfect way to do it. Look for quality sheets in fabrics like linen, bamboo, high-thread cotton or silk (wink, wink). Colour can also affect mood and we run through colour psychology in this article.
We share our favourite places to buy bedding online in this article. It’s a timeless gift idea that marries comfort and style.
3. Personalised gifts: A touch of uniqueness
Add a personal touch to your gift by having something custom made. You can create meaningful gifts for your loved one like a monogrammed beach towel or water bottle, custom photo album or canvas of special memories. You can also add a bit of humour or share an in-joke with something like a personalised T-shirt or coffee mug. Or go down the sentimental route with an artist portrait or house portrait. The options are endless!
Personalised gifts show that you put thought and effort into the gift, making it even more special for the recipient. It’s easy to order these on websites like Etsy and we have plenty of handmade gift ideas here.
4. Experiences: Memory-making moments
If your partner’s love language is quality time rather than gifts, giving an experience is the perfect gift! Whether it’s a hot air balloon ride, a cooking class for two, or tickets to a live performance, experiences create lasting memories. Websites like RedBalloon or Airbnb Experiences offer a wide range of options to suit diverse interests, ensuring a truly unforgettable gift.
5. Fashion forward: Stylish staples for the wardrobe
Show your partner how well you know them by buying a special piece to revamp their wardrobe. Accessories like sunglasses, handbags or shoes are always popular and easier to get right.
You can also add a story to this type of gift to give it more meaning. For example, consider gifting an evening bag with a note inside that says something like “May this handbag accompany you on nights filled with laughter, romance, and unforgettable moments together”. Cheesy? We say it’s the ultimate romantic gesture!
Of course if you want this Valentine’s Day to be the one you take your relationship to the next level, a non-traditional ring like elegant black diamond engagement rings, could be the perfect gift.
A man might appreciate accessories like cufflinks, unique rings like Tungsten rings, classic wristwatches, and the like. Often the only jewellery men wear is their wedding band and given these are often selected to complement a women’s ring, it may not reflect their personal sense of style. So gifting jewellery that fits his style can be a thoughtful gift.
6. Tech innovations: Cutting-edge gadgets
For the tech enthusiast, explore cutting-edge gadgets that merge functionality with style. Think about wireless charging stations, sleek smartwatches, or noise-canceling headphones in a chic design. These gifts seamlessly blend practicality with a modern aesthetic, catering to their love for all things tech.
7. Subscription services: A gift that keeps on giving
Finally, another Valentine’s Day gift idea we’d love to receive is a subscription service. Find one tailored to their interests, be it gourmet coffee, curated wine, or a monthly book club. Subscription boxes not only offer a continuous stream of surprises but also reflect your commitment to their ongoing enjoyment.
We hope this list of non-cheesy Valentine’s Day gift ideas helped you find the perfect gift! When it comes to gift giving, it’s all about thought and effort so take time to reflect on their interests and style. Do you have any other ideas we should add to the list? Pop a comment below!
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