22 Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas
Valentine’s Day—the one day a year when lovebirds everywhere remind the rest of us single folks why we’re saving money.
But if you are coupled up, it’s also the one day you can’t get away with “it’s the thought that counts” unless that thought comes wrapped in something that didn’t scream “picked this up at 10 PM.”
I get it—Valentine’s Day gift-giving is stressful. If you’re anything like me, you’ve googled “unique Valentine’s gifts” so many times your ads are now entirely pink and heart-shaped.
But fear not, my fellow panicked shoppers!
I’ve compiled a list of some valentine’s day gift ideas that’ll make your partner swoon, smile, or at least stop asking if you “forgot what day it is.”
From sweet to spicy to downright creative, these gifts are guaranteed to impress—or at the very least, outperform last year’s bouquet of grocery-store carnations.
Let’s dive in and save your February 14th dignity, shall we?
Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas
1. The “Love Coupons” Booklet
Okay, hear me out. This is the OG of romantic gifts, perfect for the broke and creative. You make a little booklet of coupons like “One Free Backrub” or “I’ll Watch That Weird Show You Like Without Complaining.” It’s a hit if done right.
Last year, I made one for my partner, and guess what? They redeemed all the coupons in one weekend.
By Sunday night, I was an overworked massage therapist watching a reality show about glassblowing competitions while Googling how to make soufflé. Moral of the story: don’t offer things you’re not ready to commit to. But hey, it’s heartfelt!
2. Custom Face Socks
Nothing says, “You’re the love of my life” like putting your face on their feet.
I bought these for my partner last year, and they were a hit—until they wore them to the gym, and a stranger asked, “Why do your socks look like they’re judging me?”
They’re weird, personal, and will make your partner laugh every time they wear them. Bonus points if you get matching ones with their face too.
3. A Romantic Getaway (To Your Living Room)
Who needs Paris when you have Pinterest? Transform your living room into a five-star destination.
Throw some fairy lights on the wall, light a candle, and boom—ambiance.
I once tried this and went all out: DIY Eiffel Tower made of cardboard, Edith Piaf playing in the background, croissants I definitely didn’t bake myself.
It was magical—until the cat knocked over the wine, and my “French evening” turned into me scrubbing Merlot out of the carpet. But hey, it’s the thought that counts, right?
4. Fancy Underwear (That’s Really for You Both)
Here’s a classic. You buy them something spicy and act like it’s totally for them when really, you’re the one who benefits. It’s like buying a vacuum cleaner and pretending it’s a romantic gesture (don’t do that, by the way).
The first time I tried this, I underestimated how tricky lingerie sizing is. I ended up gifting my partner something that could double as a hammock.
Pro tip: get their size right, or just go for something universally safe—like cozy pajamas. Flannel can be sexy too… right?
5. A DIY Scrapbook (Minus the Glitter Disaster)
This one’s perfect if you’ve got more time than money—and a tolerance for craft supplies taking over your life.
Gather your favorite photos, movie ticket stubs, and other keepsakes, and turn them into a scrapbook that says, “I pay attention to our memories.”
I made one for my partner once, and it was chef’s kiss. Except for the part where I accidentally glued my hand to the table.
And the glitter. Glitter is not romantic—it’s a sparkly plague. If you’re considering this, just… don’t underestimate glitter.
6. Personalized Star Map
Did you know you can get a map of the stars on the night you met?
It’s super romantic and nerdy at the same time. I ordered one of these last year, and let me tell you, nothing says “I love you” like an overpriced piece of paper that says, “Look! Space approves of us.”
The only downside? You have to explain to every guest why you have a map of Orion’s Belt hanging in your living room. But hey, it’s worth it for the “aww” factor.
7. A Subscription Box (For Their Obsession of the Month)
This is the gift that keeps on giving—literally. Whether it’s wine, books, plants, or cheese (yes, cheese), there’s a subscription box for everything.
My partner loves tea, so I got them a tea subscription box. Every month, we get a new set of exotic teas that we pretend to enjoy before switching back to plain ol’ Earl Grey.
It’s fun, though!
And if they hate it, hey, at least they’ll think of you every time the box shows up.
8. A Pet (AKA Instant Chaos)
This one’s risky, but if your partner’s been hinting they want a furry friend, Valentine’s Day might be the perfect time to surprise them with a new companion.
But beware: pets are not just cute Instagram props—they poop, chew on things, and have opinions about your furniture.
My friend did this last year and got their partner a parrot.
Turns out parrots live for like 80 years and learn to mimic your worst traits. Now they’ve got a bird that says, “You forgot to do the dishes again!” every time they walk into the kitchen. So, you know, proceed with caution.
9. A Cooking Class (So You Can Stop Burning Toast)
This one’s for the couples who eat out so much their delivery guy knows their kids’ names.
A cooking class is fun, interactive, and you get to eat your mistakes. My partner and I tried one last year, and it was a blast—except for the part where I set a crepe on fire. (Pro tip: flambé is not for amateurs.)
Now we have a new tradition of making dinner together, which is romantic, messy, and occasionally edible. Highly recommend.
10. The Ultimate Lazy Gift: Gift Cards
Listen, gift cards get a bad rap, but hear me out: they’re practical, customizable, and say, “I trust you to know what you want.” One year, I panicked and got my partner a gift card to their favorite bookstore. They loved it.
The trick is to dress it up. Put it in a cute card, or attach it to something small and thoughtful—like a mini plant or a bag of their favorite candy.
Just don’t hand it over with a “meh” and call it a day. Effort matters, folks.
11. Personalized Puzzle of You Two
Who doesn’t love a good puzzle?
You can get a custom one made from a photo of the two of you.
It’s romantic and an activity. But beware: this can backfire if your partner isn’t into puzzles or if the photo you choose is one where you thought you looked cute but they were mid-sneeze.
I tried this once, and it was a disaster. The picture was so zoomed in that we couldn’t tell if a piece was part of my face or a shadow.
Three hours and a small argument later, we declared it a draw and ordered pizza.
12. A Jar of Love Notes
This is the easiest DIY gift ever. Write down a bunch of sweet, funny, or downright silly notes, fold them up, and stick them in a jar. Boom—instant romance.
The best part?
They’ll think of you every time they pull out a note.
I tried this, but I got too ambitious and ended up with 365 notes. By day 72, my partner texted, “You really ran out of ideas, huh?” Apparently, “I like your face” isn’t the heartfelt gem I thought it was. Keep it simple and heartfelt, folks.
13. A Plant (That’s Hard to Kill)
Flowers die, but a plant says, “Our love is alive and thriving—just like this succulent.” Bonus points if it’s something quirky, like a Venus flytrap. My partner loves plants, but unfortunately, they have a black thumb. I gave them a cactus last year, and guess what?
Even that didn’t survive.
The moral of the story? Include a note that says, “This plant will thrive because of your love—or my backup watering skills.”
14. A Blanket Hoodie
Have you seen those oversized wearable blankets?
They’re like a Snuggie, but fancier and less likely to make you look like a cult member. Perfect for cozy nights in. I got one for my partner, and now they live in it.
I’m honestly considering getting one for myself just so I can match their energy.
Warning: once they try it on, you’ll never see them in regular clothes again. Prepare for Blanket Person to take over your life.
15. A Custom Comic Strip
If your partner has a sense of humor, commission an artist to turn one of your funniest or sweetest relationship moments into a comic strip. It’s unique, personal, and shows you really care.
I did this last year, and the artist nailed it. Now we have a framed comic of the time we accidentally locked ourselves out of the house while wearing matching onesies.
It’s embarrassing and adorable—just like us.
16. Couples’ Board Games
Get a board game designed for couples, like one of those “conversation starter” games or a trivia game about your relationship.
But fair warning: some of these games can turn into arguments if you’re not careful. (Why do I know this? Experience.)
We tried a game like this once, and I learned that my partner remembers everything. “What was the first thing I ever said to you?” Apparently, “Nice shoes” wasn’t the poetic opener I remembered.
17. A Food Tour (Or a DIY Version)
If your partner is a foodie, a gift like this is a no-brainer. Book a local food tour or create your own version by hitting up their favorite restaurants in one day. You can even theme it, like “Best Pizza Places” or “Tacos Galore.”
One time, we did a dessert crawl, and by stop three, we were both in a sugar coma.
Was it worth it?
Absolutely.
Do I regret ordering that fourth slice of cake? Only when I look at the photos.
18. A DIY Candle Kit
What’s more romantic than making candles together and then lighting them for a cozy dinner?
I got one of these kits last year, and we had a blast pretending to be artisanal candle makers.
The only downside?
I spilled wax everywhere and accidentally made a candle that smelled like… crayons.
Pro tip: Pick a scent you both like, and don’t go rogue with “experimental” mixes like lavender and cinnamon. (Trust me, it smells like regret.)
19. A Personalized Soundwave Print
You know those cool soundwave art pieces?
You can get one made from a recording of something special, like the first “I love you” or your wedding vows. It’s artsy and sentimental.
I got one for my partner, but the soundwave I picked was me laughing at one of their bad jokes.
It’s now hanging in our living room, and every time I look at it, I can hear myself snort-laughing in my head. Totally worth it.
20. A Fancy Coffee (or Tea) Setup
If your partner is a caffeine addict, get them a fancy French press, a pour-over kit, or even a subscription for artisanal beans.
For tea lovers, go all out with loose-leaf teas and a quirky teapot.
We did this, and now mornings are a whole production of grinding beans, measuring water, and waiting for the perfect brew. It’s extra, but honestly, it’s kind of romantic.
Plus, it’s way better than gas station coffee.
21. A Date Jar
Fill a jar with fun date ideas, from “Stargazing in the backyard” to “Ice cream at midnight.” This is perfect for those nights when you can’t decide what to do.
My partner and I tried this, and it’s been a game-changer. Except for the time we pulled “Go on a hike” and realized neither of us owns proper shoes.
Lesson learned: include some low-effort options.
22. An Experience They’ve Always Wanted
Maybe they’ve always wanted to try hot air ballooning or take a pottery class. Gifting them an experience shows you’ve been paying attention—and it’s something you can do together.
Last year, I got my partner a glassblowing workshop, and let me tell you, nothing says romance like sweating over molten glass while trying not to break anything.
We ended up with a lopsided vase, but it’s a lopsided vase filled with memories.
