Last week we talked about what singles can do on Valentine’s Day. Now that we have the singles squared away, how about some suggestions on what not to give as a Valentine’s Gift. While I was driving home the other day I heard a commercial for the perfect Valentine’s Day gift. It was that commercial that you hear for every big gift giving holiday “why not name a star after your loved one?” Oh no please no, not the star with my name on it.
Now don’t get me wrong, I really like seeing my name on stuff. Like monogrammed towels, t-shirts, checks, you get the idea. But a certificate that tells me somewhere in the galaxy there is a star with my name on it is not the gift to give to the person who has everything. Trust and believe it will end up in a drawer.
Speaking of names on things, one of my all-time favorite gifts was a calendar from my insurance agent Bernie Mack; it had my name on every month somewhere in the picture. It was so wonderful that I saved it and plan to frame some of the pages. Another gift I’ve never wanted and would not advise anyone to give is a Chia Pet or a Chia anything unless it has been requested or is a gag gift and you have the real gift hidden somewhere.
For Valentine’s Day I think ladies are looking for beautiful flowers, boxed candy, candlelight dinners, a fragrance and jewelry. Those items are expensive and sometimes the significant other can’t afford to do all of them. Gentlemen, you should know what your lady likes. Is she big on beautiful cards, does she like flowers? I have found some of the most beautiful flowers at Whole Foods. Pick up a bouquet and drop them off at her job, or bring them to her home. Greeting cards can be found at all price points; it is what the card says that counts. You can make your own card or how about writing a note about how you feel about her or him.
Ladies and gents you know getting a reservation on Valentine’s Day is pretty difficult if you don’t do it early so why not prepare the meal at home together or bring home a prepared meal? One of my favorite Valentine’s stories was one I did over 10 years ago. A friend of mine, who happens to be a co-worker, prepared a fabulous meal for his wife and children and gave each person a gift. He does this every year and puts so much effort into it.
A great gift does not have to cost a lot of money. I received a gift of a tool bag this month. I was blown away, thanks Marva. My tools were everywhere, now I have a nice bag for them. It was thoughtful and I love it. My suggestions for homeowners is a membership to Angie’s List and for car owners, a membership to AAA, add a card, a kiss and you’re done.
(Email the columnist at debbienorrell@aol.com)
