The time has come again for everyone's favorite holiday to complain about, Valentine's Day. While it's not the only day of the year you should be celebrating and appreciating your partner, there's a lot of added pressure to making sure you make this day perfect.
Not only does the day have to go off without a hitch, but the gift has to be good. If you're freaking out what to get your girlfriend because of high expectations, low expectations, or you just have no clue where to start, here's a list that will appease almost any girlfriend.
For the girlfriend who lifts:
Is your girlfriend always at the gym, or trying to make a more valiant effort to go to the gym? There's a variety of gifts to give for Valentine's day that can get you out in under $20, or a little more if you're looking to spend a few bucks.
An armband is the perfect small gift because it's both useful and thoughtful... and you didn't just break the bank to buy it.
If you're looking to spend a little more but know nothing about clothing, leggings are the perfect option for your lady. No matter what you hear, you really can't own enough leggings. Try Fabletics leggings for good quality that doesn't empty your balance.
For the girlfriend who spends a percentage of her day watching Tasty videos:
Does your girlfriend tag you in at least three recipes a day on Facebook? Then you probably can't go wrong with the Tasty Cookbook. It's an excuse to try out new recipes and if you're lucky you might just reap the benefits of a home-cooked meal.
Looking for more of an experience instead of an item? Take that couples cooking class she's been bugging you about for months. It might not be your idea of the perfect night, but it usually includes wine and being buzzed and seeing your girlfriend happy are two things you can probably get behind.
For the girlfriend who enjoys the finer things, but you're on a budget:
So you've stalked your girlfriend's Pinterest and realized all the saved items from Barney's and Bendels probably won't be in a pretty pink bag this Valentine's Day. First, that's okay, because if she does want a gift, she's not looking for you to take out a loan. Second, you can still get her some small luxury gifts for around $100 that she'll love
Leather card holders are not only super useful, but you can get a designer one for cheaper than you'd realize.
A new pair of sunnies for the spring is also a good option because you can feel better knowing you got her something she'll use all the time.
For the new girlfriend:
Ah, you two finally made it happen just in time to exchange Valentine's Day gifts. Don't freak out if you don't know totally what to get her, but for the love of all that is holy, do not just get a teddy bear and some chocolates. Think outside the box and buy just that... a subscription box!
Have you noticed she's into makeup or skincare? Get her a few months of Birchbox. Can she put down a bottle of merlot like a champ? There are even wine subscription boxes. It's the perfect "I don't totally know what you like, but this is better than a Starbucks giftcard" gift.
For the sentimental girlfriend:
Is the Leslie Knope in your life? Has she saved every ticket stub or physical proof of a memory you two have together? She makes every gift so hard because she's so thoughtful; a blessing and a curse. Start by really, really, thinking about things she likes, or things you two like together.
Getting photos that you've picked printed by Parabo Press would be a great idea because the prints are adorable and being the curator will mean that much more.
Bullet journals and "once a day" journals are also a great gift because it will give them the outlet to express themselves and they'll actually take the time to use them instead of shoving them in a random desk drawer.
For the girlfriend who doesn't want a gift:
Are you totally frustrated? Do you know deep down she's still getting you something? Are you playing weird mind games to see if she really means she doesn't want a gift? If you and your S.O. have decided to not exchange gift, but you still want to do something to show a little extra appreciation, do something that doesn't cost much. Slip a $5 bill in her wallet with a note to get her coffee that morning. Decide to save a few bucks make her favorite meal. More than anything, make the night about her and your connection.
