Valentine's Day is a holiday around the world where people take an opportunity to appreciate their partners, usually in the form of gifts. Whether you are buying presents for a girlfriend of six months or six years, take the time to come up with a thoughtful and sweet gift that conveys your love for her. While it is tempting to buy traditional gifts like candy, chocolate, or flowers for Valentine's, try and think outside the box a little to surprise and delight your girlfriend.
The best Valentine's Day gifts are those which work for two to celebrate your relationship. You might want to consider taking your girlfriend out to dinner in her favorite restaurant and following up with an activity designed with a couple in mind. If your girlfriend enjoys the spa, you could get massages or body treatments together: many spas offer Valentine's specials with this in mind. You might also think about going horseback riding, cycling, or just walking in a favorite place.
If your girlfriend has a hobby that you don't engage in, Valentine's Day might be a good time to investigate it. Perhaps your girlfriend enjoys sailing, chess, word games, or bowling: surprise her by taking her out to do her favorite thing. You might also surprise yourself by finding that you enjoy the activity, which will also enrich your relationship with each other. Exploring the things your girlfriend enjoys also indicates your level of commitment and interest in the relationship.
If your girlfriend is dealing with a lot of stress due to a job, raising children, or anything else, a thoughtful Valentine's Day gift will recognize that. If she is raising children, think about an escape for the two of you to a bed and breakfast, leaving the children with family or a sitter. Getting out of the house and into a new environment will relax your girlfriend and renew her energy. If she's working in a high stress job, surprise her in the office for Valentine's Day with flowers or a catered lunch. For longer term relationships, longer trips might also be a wonderful way to celebrate Valentine's: go to an exotic locale and escape from your every day lives.
If your girlfriend is on the pragmatic side, a practical Valentine's Day gift has its place. Surprise her by retiling her shower or repairing something broken around the house. You can always add a romantic note with a thoughtful note or a big bouquet of flowers on the kitchen table. Especially if you live together, improving the house can be a sweet way to show commitment and enrich your lives.