You don’t have to be a doe-eyed romantic to appreciate the value of a well thought-out gift.
Practical considerations alone demand that you put some thought into your partner’s upcoming birthday, or holiday, or anniversary, or just-because gift. Unless you like sleeping on the pullout couch. (Just kidding; no one likes sleeping on the pullout couch.)
These five gift ideas all qualify as novel twists on traditional standbys. At minimum, they’re guaranteed to get a second look from your girl. If you’re as clever as we give you credit for, you’ll know how to exploit the opening.
1. An Eco-Friendly Succulent Arrangement
Skip the potted plants and head straight for your local nursery’s succulents section. Succulent arrangements are so hot right now, and for good reason: with proper care (not much), they last almost indefinitely. Throw together a DIY succulent arrangement with ideas from Pinterest, buy a pre-made spread from the store, or surprise your partner with tickets to a succulent gardening class.
2. A Rose That Lasts Forever
Silly you, thinking only diamonds were forever. No longer: now, roses last as long as you want too. The Eternity Rose dips real roses in 24-karat gold, silver or platinum, freezing them at the peak of perfection. You’ll quite literally never have to buy another bunch of live roses again. That’s doubtless music to your ears; we’re betting your significant other will quietly celebrate too.
3. A Card You Made Yourself
Cheap, yes. Effective? Absolutely.
Nothing quite says “from the heart” like a handmade greeting card.
You don’t have to be a master craftsman or accomplished artist to create a memorable card from scratch. All you need is some card stock, scissors, craft supplies, and creative energy. (If you’re stuck, check out this simple tutorial.)
Psst — instead of making your own handmade greeting card, why not check out what other crafty cardmongers are capable of creating? Whatever the occasion, there’s an appropriate (and appropriately twee) option out there.
4. A His and Her Robe Set
A comfy, snuggly robe is a sure way into your significant other’s heart — 50 years ago. Today, bathrobes are a dime a dozen, and never more than a couple clicks away.
If you’re serious about showing your S/O how much you care — and how long you plan to stay together — step it up and get her a plush, monogrammed robe. Then step it up one step further, budget permitting, and get yourself a plush, monogrammed robe.
Worst case scenario, you’ll know what to wear next time you’re lounging around the house on a chilly day. Seriously, though, it’s hard to imagine your partner being put out by this gift.
5. A Monogrammed Flask
A bottle of wine is nice in a pinch, but — really? That’s the best you can do?
Get her a boozy gift that’s actually going to outlast your next romantic evening in. A monogrammed flask sounds about right: compact, reusable, discreet. Go upmarket with leather trim, flowery script and decorative cap.
What’s your special someone getting on her next big day?