Step Outside the Box This Valentine's Day

Okay, here's the deal: traditional Valentine's Day gift ideas are lame-o, with a capital 'L.' Chocolates, flowers, lingerie (let me buy it myself, for god's sake!) and jewelry is a bit tired. Yet, how are we supposed to do any better when retailers only offer up the same-old goods year after year? A recent jaunt through the mall left me empty handed. Did I really want to give my man chocolates in a heart-shaped box? Um, probably about as much as he wants to receive one.

Fortunately, AreYouRomantic.com launched just in time for V-day, offering sassy ideas for spicing up the romance in any relationship. But, first they did a poll to uncover the following:

 -70 percent of men are waiting until the last minute (read 5 p.m. on Thursday) to make Valentine's Day plans.
-Men typically give their partners cards (59 percent), flowers (42 percent) or candy (19 percent).
-68 percent of women feel men should be planning something special.

So, with that in mind, here are some gift ideas for V-day beyond chocolates and flowers to 'wow' your significant other. These are gifts you can get pretty much anywhere, which means no more blaming retailers for not giving us better options.

And, for the record, I don't think it's only up to the guy to make plans. Ladies, we're notoriously good planners--so get your guy something fun and fabulous!

For him:
-iPod accessories
-Razor phone
-Clothes, clothes, clothes--specifically gym gear and sexy boxers (not the ones with red lips!)
-Book: Mortified: Love is a Battlefield by David Nadelberg
-19-in. flatscreen computer monitor
-Subscription to Men's Health or GQ
-Weekend at a posh downtown hotel--make sure flatscreen televisions are somehow included

For her:
-Sex & The City - complete DVD series set
-Spa day
-Gift card to her favorite clothing retailer
-Plush, short bathrobe
-LG Chocolate phone
-Kate Spade handbag
-Weekend at a bed and breakfast

See, that wasn't so bad. And if you're without a valentine, remember it's just a commercialized, silly holiday. Oh, and those chocolate hearts are on sale on the 15th--I'll see you at Target to cash in.

Do you have a fabulous V-day gift idea for either him or her? If so, share your wisdom by leaving a comment.

--Heather Strang

Comments

[Beee K.]

I agree that heading to the mall is Boring with all the same old overpriced red hearts & new infinity diamond thing-ama-bob necklaces to buy etc. How about treating your mate to an afternoon at an outdoor retail store to investigate or buy something you might do together - check out tennis racquets, canoe rentals for later in the season, or hiking gear.
Also, Specialty Outdoor Retailers - get in the act too. Don't let any Holiday pass your shop by specifically when you can market things in pairs!

[nick]

whilst im always a fan of clothes for gifts...this year my gf got me cologne, Kenneth Cole Reaction. its great cuz i know its a scent she likes, and im happy to smell good for her! once i got it i of course googled it, and found an extra bonus: www.reactionofattraction.com. its kc's hilarious site of pick up lines. I laughed so hard, and managed to write in my own, so hopefully i can take her to vegas for v-day! anyway getting off track, back to the point - cologne is always a good gift to get your guy!

[iamevilhomer]

If you're really thinking outside the box, check out personalized CarTatts (www.cartatts.com)! You can show your love for your mate by proudly proclaiming affections on your car (in a stricly graphical sense, of course). If that doesn’t get your motor running this Valentine’s Day, nothing will!