No matter your relationship status (married, dating, single) more often then not, there is an expectation of what it means to be some one's sweetheart. On this special day we are supposed to show our sweetie just how much we care. So how do we go about this without breaking the bank, or more importantly breaking a heart with a gift that isn't heartfelt?
Women buying gifts for Men -
The first thing to keep in mind is that men care just as much as we do. Perhaps not necessarily about Valentines Day, but they care about us and want us to care about them. However, a simple bouquet or box of heart shaped chocolates and a card with a tiny kitten may not be your best choice. Men are "dudes" so don't treat them like "chicks."
Think about what your guy is into. Maybe he likes fishing, football, golf, bowling, hunting, skiing, biking......you get the idea. Find something they do often or even better WISH they did more. A gift basket (tackle box) with items that pertain to this hobby is always fun. It shows you care and that you are aware of what they are into. This doesn't HAVE to be extremely expensive or extravagant. I might even suggest spending LESS then what you think they will spend on you. (Less money AND less time) Not because I think YOU deserve more then them, but let's face it, girls make a WAY bigger deal about V-day then guys. Rather then buying "too much" and risking the chance of getting "too little" error on the side of "less is more." This gives the guy a chance to shine, rather then dwindle in the shadows of his amazing gift from you.
Men buying gifts for Women -
Ok guys, the MOST important thing to remember when buying a gift, is make it personal. Nothing says, "I don't care" like a last minute stop at the local grocery store for some wilted flowers and a generic box of chocolates. Start thinking AHEAD.......and I would even go as far as to "accidentally" leave something out where she might get a clue that YOU are brainstorming ideas. (Computer left on at her favorite store site, receipt left out, or dare I say crafty supplies and scraps left somewhere to be SEEN). Seriously MAKING her something no matter how bad it turns out, is always cute. This shows that you will take the time to a) risk looking like an idiot, if it doesn't turn out and b) you thought about her prior to seeing her. (So NO you won't be getting extra bonus points if you grab a white piece of computer paper from your work desk and write a simple "happy v-day" on the way home, or a free deck of cards from the local casino you frequent) The point of MAKING something is taking the TIME to do it! 
For some women, the simple craft gift will be enough to set her heart a flutter, but to be SURE you don't disappoint you should probably buy SOMETHING to go with it. Again, this doesn't have to be expensive (unless your dating someone materialistic....and in that case it does). The same rules apply for both guys and girls buying gifts. Find something the person is INTO! What does your wife, girlfriend, or crush like to do in her spare time? Does she read? Is she into fashion? Does she like jewelry? Is she into cooking? This time of year (the beginning weeks of February) YOU NEED TO BE VERY GOOD AT LISTENING AND TAKING HINTS!!!!!!! As women we often drop, not so subtle clues to what we might like. This is true for any occasion when we would be expecting a gift (B-day, Christmas, Anniversary). So don't be a dummy!!!! Pay attention to what your woman is saying or doing!!!
Ladies and Gentlemen, before you botch yet another chance to show your honey how much you care, take my advice and get thinking! Nothing is more romantic then a surprisingly thoughtful gesture. Remember it really is the THOUGHT that counts! All the money in the World will not make up for the TIME you take to show your love.....not just on Valentine's Day but THROUGHOUT the entire year!
Tips for Guys! (These are just starters.....to what you COULD do!)
For the girls who loves to cook - cooking supplies, apron, oven mitt, wooden utensil...For the girls who loves to do her nails - Numerous colors of finger nail polish, remover, file, clippers, nail art?
For the book nerd - a book by her favorite author, a bookmark, gift cert. to Barnes and Noble
For the fashionista - a scarf, gift cert. to her FAVORITE clothing store, clutch (small purse) if you buy her anything that you pick out yourself (KEEP the RECEIPT) just in case! :)
For the Mom - a coupon for a night out AWAY from the kids, massage, gift cert. to get her hair done, manicure, pedicureFor the Exercise Queen - new workout clothes, tennis shoes, water bottle, sweat band, subscription to a fitness magazine, headphones, ipod
Surprise her at work (chat with her boss to allow her to leave early) take her shopping for a new dress to wear to her surprise romantic dinner
Make a list of the reasons you love her! (At LEAST 10)
Baker her something and make it heart shaped, breakfast in bed, candle light dinner, fill a room with (flowers, pink/red balloons)
Take her for a weekend getaway!
Make a donation in her honor to her favorite cause!
Go to pinterest.com for great homemade Valentines ideas!
DISCLAIMER!!!!! YOU know your significant other more than I do. So these are merely ideas to get your brain a thinkin'. I take NO responsibility for how your gift is received. Please don't come looking for me if your relationship doesn't make it to Feb. 15 2012! :)
