Creative Valentine Gift Suggestions

A beautiful Valentine card with a heartfelt message should be enough to satisfy that loved one of yours but often more than a card is called for. Consider these alternatives to heart shaped boxes of chocolates and stuffed teddy bears this February 14:

Restaurant Gift Certificates. For the valentine who would rather eat out, a gift certificate to a favorite restaurant is a welcome present. Some argue that the way to a man's heart is through his stomach but depending on what can of cook you are, a home cooked meal may not always come up a winner. For him- A restaurant gift certificate suggests you would rather not spend Valentine's Day in the kitchen. For her- The present doesn't mean she can't cook, just that you want to reward her with a day off from the routine and a romantic dinner over candlelight. I call this one a win-win.

Spa Gift Certificates. With all of the current stress everyone is experiencing, what could be more appreciated than a trip to a spa? An affordable message would delight any valentine. For him- His tired muscles from job stress and house maintenance chores are soothed with a message he will appreciate. For her- She is pampered with a luxurious spa treatment. Maybe a facial would be appreciated. She would feel beautified and you would enjoy the improved view as well. Maybe a couple's message is a gift you would both remember. Lying side by side while two some ones rub your backs; how special is that!

Ice Cream Social. Not everyone is a fan of chocolate. Hard for me to believe, but understandable, I guess. For something sweet and fun to share, consider a visit to your local ice cream shop. For him- He will enjoy picking out his favorite flavor and can lick away while you talk. For her- She will relish some one on one time with her honey that extends beyond the allotted commercial break during those many sports programs on TV. A fun reminder of more innocent times, an ice cream social is something you will both enjoy. Partake of frozen yogurt if you feel the need to continue your diet through the holiday.

Walk in the Park. Stop the madness by retreating to a peaceful stroll in the park. This one can be enjoyed by everyone, including the kids! For him- He gets a bit of exercise and the opportunity to retain the title as a romantic. For her- She gets your undivided attention and an opportunity to hold hands, which is priceless. And, it doesn't cost you a cent! Pick a beautiful day, take the kids if you want, and spend some time enjoying nature, the outdoors, and each others company.

Picnic. This one takes the walk in a park a step further by incorporating food into the mix. Spread a blanket on the ground and think back to when you first dated. I bet a picnic is one of your fondest memories. For him- He gets to eat and the chance to lounge around which is a good thing for a man. Pick his favorite picnic food and perhaps a nice bottle of wine and life is good. For her- She gets out of the kitchen and a chance to nurture the romantic side of you that she feel in love with originally.

Valentine's Day Cards. The annual Happy Valentine's Day card is expected when you are in elementary school but can be the most exciting piece of folded up paper you have ever received when you are in love. A special card that you hand selected can send your special someone over the moon. A hand written message makes it a keeper. For him- A creative short poem will be fun for you to write and him to read. Add a coupon for a kiss, back message or some such special add-on and he might even save it among his treasures! For her- Now is your chance to surprise her with a mushy expression of your love and devotion. Win her heart all over again with a sentiment that says she is truly your valentine.

However you decide to celebrate February 14, keep it original and thoughtful with the recipient in mind. The holiday doesn't have to be a major expenditure, just one special day in which you let the other people in your life know that they are appreciated, loved and cherished throughout the year.