Last Minute Valentine's Day Gift Ideas

Even if it’s February 14^th, there is still time to run out and find something for your sweetheart. While it may be too late to think about a creative gift, there is still time to redeem yourself with at least an old standby of candy and flowers. I'll give you some ideas on what you can find or plan that doesn't take a lot of time. As a bonus, I'll also give you some pointers on what NOT to buy at the last minute for Valentine's Day!

Don’t buy jewelry.

If you’ve waited this long to buy a piece of jewelry, chances are you have no idea what you would buy, and any gift you buy now could be a rushed decision that ends in the obligatory, “Oh, honey, how nice.” Ugh. There’s nothing like being saddled with a hideous piece of jewelry that you feel you have to wear now and then—or accidentally “lose” it. Pay attention for the next year and try the jewelry idea then.

Don’t buy a kitchen appliance.

Seriously. Don’t. Even if you know for sure that he or she has been eyeing that latest food chopper, and it would be easy enough to pick up at the last minute, don’t get it for Valentine’s Day. Nothing says “I love you, honey” less than does a food chopper. Or a toaster. Even a toaster oven. Even a toaster oven that doubles as a dishwasher. Okay, you get the point.

Don’t buy any ole stuffed animal.

A stuffed animal is just fine for Valentine’s Day—for a gal or a guy, really. However, if you’re shopping at the last minute, chances are you may not put enough thought into what kind you are getting. I wouldn’t want the cutest stuffed lizard in the world, because lizards don’t mean anything to me. You have to know what stuffed creature would mean something to your significant other. And while you may have acquired this handy bit of knowledge, searching requires time, and you’re quickly running out of it.

Buy chocolates!

Who doesn’t like chocolates? Well, I know a few people, but their obvious disorders are another story. They’re the exception. Buy chocolates or some other sweet that your guy or gal likes. Get a card to go with it, and you’re done.

Buy flowers.

Flowers are always okay. They’re traditional and predictable, but they’re always a nice gesture. You can pick up a bouquet of flowers about anywhere, often even at the local gas station. Even a single red rose will do. (Maybe write a little love note to go with it!)

Cook dinner or breakfast.

Go all out to cook a nice dinner for two with candlelight and soft music. Or serve breakfast in bed. Either of these would go well with one of the other ideas if you want to do more.

Watch romantic movies.

Pick up a couple of romantic movies, new or old, and spend the evening together enjoying a sappy romance. Make popcorn, pop chocolates, drink wine, or whatever your little hearts desire. Who knows? Perhaps the romance on the screen will get you both in the mood for some romance of your own.

Write a poem or letter.

Open up your heart and write about your darling…whether in poetry form or in a letter. Real words from the heart can mean more than any store-bought gift.

Check out some other hubs here for other ideas, if you still need more. These are the best I can give you for now. I’ve got a few last minute Valentine’s Day plans to make myself!