Love fills the air, but boring gifts get you nowhere
Photo by Jessica Ferrell
February 12, 2010 • written by Jessica Ferrell
Filed under Features
In case that blood-red aisle in the grocery store hasn’t given it away, Valentine’s Day is here (again).
With this day, of course, come the three most popular gifts: cards, flowers, and chocolates. These standard, overrated presents do not allow buyers to show neither effort nor creativity in their gift giving.
This is a call to arms. Toss the idea of giving the usual and embrace the creativity inside of you. Imagination is key when it comes to the perfect Valentine’s Day gift.
Love notes on steroids:
Although local card store managers squeal with delight over the flocks of people that this day of love attracts, let’s face it: The cheesy/mushy cards are getting old.
Instead of spending $3.99 for the typical “I love you…” card, buy a box of Sweethearts. Though the candies are not special in their own packaging, with a thoughtful twist and some glue, these little hearts with messages can say more than meets the eye.
Pick out your favorite phrases from the bunch. Arrange and glue the candies on a piece of construction paper or poster board and just write a message in the gaps (ex. I think “U R CUTE.” I love it when you “CALL ME” just to tell me that you “LUV ME.”). Though it sounds silly, this homemade mad lib will earn the giver some mad lovin’.
Another way to demonstrate your love is with lipstick.
No, not kissing. Let’s keep it PG.
Simple love notes, quotes, or poems can be written on bathroom or bedroom mirrors (with parental permission, of course) and even car windows.
“Roses are red, violets are dying. Give something other than flowers to show that you’re trying:”
Flowers are pretty; they smell nice and all, but they die. The love between two people cannot be demonstrated by the dying bouquet of roses sitting on the kitchen table.
Instead of flowers, frame a picture of you and your significant other and tie a balloon to it. This idea is simple, but the memory from the picture will last forever.
Homemade coupons can also be a cute and quirky gift alternative (ex. “This coupon entitles you to one free movie night.”) This idea is not only personal, but it also allows for future activities and date nights (as long as you don’t give them an expiration date).
Thinking outside of the heart-shaped box:
And what about the old chocolate fall-back? The “life is like a box of chocolates” line might work for Forrest Gump, but not so much for Valentine’s Day.
Toss the caramel-filled delicacies and opt for making your own treats.
Heart-shaped cookie cutters, printed cupcake liners, red and white icing, and an assortment of sprinkles are available for creative and delicious desserts.
Bake your lover’s favorite treat then place it in a decorative bag. Some stores even sell Valentine’s Day containers that resemble Chinese take-out boxes.
Since Valentine’s Day is on a Sunday this year, cooking a nice brunch for your significant other would be a delightful way to show your love. Those same heart-shaped cookie cutters can be used to make toast and even pancakes a precious expression of love. Finish it off with a fancy glass of orange juice, and you have a meal.
Although these ideas are short of extravagant, they beat the usual, and they are sure to win the hearts of anyone. I mean, who really enjoys receiving the same card, chocolate, and flower combo year after year?
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