We researched top gift options available, taking into account the recipient’s interests and preferences, the type of relationship you have, and what kind of budget you’re working with. Our list includes picks like the Kate Spade One in a Million Initial Pendant Necklace, a long distance touch bracelet from Uncommon Goods, and more. Here are the best Valentine’s Day gifts. Jewelry can be a difficult present because every recipient has their own tastes, but this simple pendant ensures your wife or sister will reach for this piece everyday. Also, unlike other name-brand necklaces, this one comes at an affordable price. Reviewers love that this pick is dainty and elegant and sits beautifully below the collarbones. Some did note that it wears very quickly, but for the reasonable price, it is easy to replace after years of beloved wear. Etiquette expert August Abbott, PhD reiterates this point of being mindful of your relationship to the recipient “Only you know the person you want to give a gift, so only you will know how this gift will be received by them,” she says. “What you buy for someone you want to remember on this day certainly depends on who that person is,” she says. “Chances are you won’t be buying the mail carrier cologne and a diamond ring for the teacher. It’s a matter of being mindful and thoughtful of your intentions and your specific relationship to that person.”
Interests or Hobbies
Think about what types of things your recipient is interested in. Is there anything in particular they have dropped hints about, or that you believe they would like based on their interests? Valentine’s Day can be a great day to show you pay attention and know them well. Dr. Abbott advises against purchasing necessities for your recipient, but reminds gift givers that a special dinner is a perfect present between two adults.
Budget
While your gift doesn’t need to be expensive to be memorable (some of the most thoughtful gifts can be simple and inexpensive), it’s a good idea to figure out what your price range is before you start shopping. Finding a good gift does not always have to break the bank: “First the giver should be honest with themselves and then think of the smallest, most mundane thing that special person might have ever mentioned (i.e. that they just love opossums)—then to find a little figurine or even stuffed toy of an opossum would make the gift more than just hearts and flowers. It’d be a reflection of how you listen to the smallest of things they say, and believe me, that’s priceless,” says Dr. Abbott.
Unique vs. Classic
Valentine’s Day has trademark classics in the gift department when it comes to things like flowers, chocolate, and jewelry. However, you can also consider buying a gift that is a bit more personalized or out of the box. Keeping in mind what your partner would prefer can be a great starting point when purchasing a gift.
Why Trust The Spruce
This article was written by Julia Fields a lifestyle writer for The Spruce covering all things surrounding toys, gifts, and the holidays since October 2021. Before that, she covered similar topics including toy reviews, product round-ups, expert-focused articles, and more. Additional reporting was done by Lacey Ramburger, a personality assessments expert and writer whose work has appeared on Thought Catalog. Expert advice was provided by August Abbott, Ph.D, etiquette expert with JustAnswer.com
