Each and every year, as the holiday season wanes and February looms on the horizon, these words never fail to instill fear in the hearts of men and hopeful delight in the minds of women.

Questions and expectations abound,“Is this the year I get a diamond?”, and “How many more years can I get away with not buying her a diamond?” two of the most familiar.

But fear not, lovebirds! Valentine’s Day, for all its hype, grandeur, and advertising, is simply a time to express your gratitude and affection for someone special; it is possible to give joy without buying jewelry! 

This is not to say that a blingy bauble isn’t a great gift selection, only that it’s not the end-all-and-be-all of Valentine’s Day presents. One must tread carefully when shopping for “The Most Romantic Day of the Year”; it is imperative that the chosen item reflect the maturity, depth, and nature of the relationship. An overly sentimental gift (or contrastingly, one too impersonal) may have unintended effects; the goal is to ride off into the sunset with your partner, not watch them run for the hills! Increase your chances of Happily Ever After, play it safe and stick to what works.

3-6 months
1) Humble Budget: Custom playlist or CD
Pros: thoughtful, customizable for his/her preferences/tastes, activity to be experienced together (add an even more personal touch- print your favorite picture together and use it as the CD cover!)

2) Moderate Budget: Monogrammed phone, laptop, or tablet case.                          Pros: Utility/everyday use item, customizable/personal

3) “Sky’s the Limit” Budget: Extended Director’s Cut/Collector’s Edition DVD of their favorite movie
Pros: Thoughtful, activity to be experienced together
*Single red rose to be included with any and all above options

6 months- 1 year
1) Humble Budget: Aromatherapy scented candle
Make a mental note of his or her favorite places, things, and experiences and the scents associated with them. Great memories camping as a kid? A woodsy pine scent is sure to light their (camp)fire! Your partner can’t start the day without their morning cup? Coffee scented candle it is! (Not a fan of candles? Try a scented lotion, soap, or bath salts!)

2) Moderate Budget: Romantic Candlelit Dinner
Make a reservation somewhere intimate. Wine, soft light, and love in the air? The recipe for a perfect evening!

3) “Sky’s the Limit” Budget: Event Tickets
Surprise your partner with tickets to an event they will enjoy or for an activity in which they are interested. Whether it be a play, concert, sports game, stand up comedy or car show, it will be a night they won’t soon forget!

Long-term Relationship: 1 year +
1) Humble Budget*: Framed photo collage, memory scrapbook
This is a great option for those in longterm relationships. Expending your time, thought, and effort to make something like a collage or scrapbook is so meaningful! This is a gift that keeps on giving, being added to and improved upon as your relationship continues and more memories are made.
*This may range in price depending on style, preference, and complexity

2) Moderate Budget: Couples’ Massage
Relaxing, rejuvenating, and romantic. You can’t go wrong!

3) “Sky’s the Limit” Budget: Weekend Getaway/Traveling
Experience the holiday somewhere new! Take in the sights, sounds, and most importantly, each other!

And when in doubt, go with diamonds. Trust us.