We’ve just managed to survive 2020 in its entirety, as well as the holiday rush and the first shopping spree of the season. Now, while it’s still early enough, it’s time to plan ahead and consider the upcoming craze of Valentine’s Day! This is a special day for many couples and a perfect opportunity to show just how much you care and to surprise your special someone.

However, it’s crucial to remember that your gift always sends a message. The type of the message will depend heavily on how long you’ve been in this relationship, as well as your plans and expectations regarding its future. Here’s a list to help you pick a perfect milestone gift for Valentine’s Day that will match the length of your relationships as well as your emotions and your appreciation!

Think light for up to three months

When you’re just starting a relationship and getting to know each other in the first couple of months, you should be careful not to seem overly enthusiastic or setting specific expectations. It’s wise to get them something they’ll like and enjoy without an underlying message that can be too much for such a young relationship.

For instance, you can go see a play together, so theatre or movie tickets are a good idea, then again, you can get them something romantic but low-key such as flowers and chocolates – you can never go wrong with those!

Get creative for six months up to a year

If you have been together for a little longer, which can be anywhere between six months or a year, it means that you likely already know each other well (unless you’re dating casually, which we’ll cover later) and you`re considering moving in together. It’s time to use that knowledge to impress your partner!

A great way to show your feelings and your commitment is to turn this date into an experience: play some of your favourite romantic tunes, prepare their favourite dish and dessert, and pick a gift that they will appreciate. For example, hand-made photo albums with your best photos and moments collected, lovely jewellery, or lingerie are all nice and romantic options.

Spice up your marriage on Valentine’s Day

Younger relationships tend to be more vibrant and exciting simply because there’s so much to discover, and the mystery alone is enough to inspire desire and passion. As your relationship grows and develops, especially if you start living together or get married, sometimes things might become a little stale or simply predictable.

Valentine’s Day is a perfect moment to rekindle the flame with the help of sex toys that are designed to help you unleash your passion and enjoy one another in a new, exciting way. From handcuffs, plugs, all the way to vibrators, sex toys are a wonderful way to reconnect and get playful with your significant other. By now, you already know each other well enough in the bedroom, so why not use that wealth of knowledge to deepen your connection?

Married with kids – something to boost self-care

When you’ve been together long enough to have kids, you know that most of your relationship’s focus is already on someone else. As your house is likely already a shrine to your little ones, with tons of toys and baby clothes lying around, this is a good chance to remind your spouse that they matter and that they should still enjoy themselves.

So, why not create a self-care gift basket with a few of your spouse’s favourite products that will entice them to spend some time alone and tending to their own needs? Think: a luscious bubble bath, scented candles, a foot massager, a skincare set, a beard care set, a scrub and lotion with their favourite fragrance.

Casual dating calls for casual, but thoughtful gifts

Sometimes, the duration of the relationship doesn’t match its substance, so even if you’ve been seeing someone for a year, but you’ve been doing so in a casual manner, you need to rethink your gift. As the word implies, casual relationships aren’t about commitment or expressing your deepest desires. These bonds are about immediate gratification, having fun, and light-hearted connections.

In such situations, it’s best to go ahead and get a present that reflects the “mood” rather than the duration of your relationships. Some good examples include edibles such as chocolates, a goofy card, or perhaps a casual dinner at your place. No need to splurge, but something thoughtful is still a nice way to commemorate the occasion.

Every relationship is different, that much is simple to understand, but since everyone also has different preferences, it’s vital to keep your partner’s needs and their expectations in mind. In addition to sending a clear message of how you feel, use this Valentine’s Day to inspire your significant other to do something for themselves, or create an experience for the occasion – you can never go wrong with being mindful of your partner’s preferences, and above all, have fun!