Because we’re all friends here, I’m just going to lay it all out on the table:
If you’re in a brand-new relationship, Valentine’s Day can feel like a minefield.
Take it too seriously, and you may freak her out. Let it pass by, and she might think you’re not interested after all.
So here’s my advice. The beginning of a romance is all about getting to know each other and having fun, so don’t over-think this gift. But do get one.
At this point, a Valentine’s Day gift is just a small gesture to say, “You’re awesome, I like you, let’s keep hanging out.”
So, how can you communicate all of that feeling (but not too much feeling) in a gift?
Keep it light—but thoughtful.
Skip the impersonal chocolates and tiny teddy-bears-holding-hearts in favor of something that you might actually like, too.
Below, check out 6 Valentine’s Day Gifts for a New Relationship:
A good book
Is there a particular book you loved recently?
Get her a hardcover copy and write a short note inside the cover. (A Moveable Feast is one of our classic lit picks, and The Secret History by Donna Tartt is even better than her more recent novel, The Goldfinch.)
Dig in
Instead of an expensive dinner reservation, track down a specialty treat shop wait for it – in her hometown (or alma mater) – and see if they deliver, asap.
Surprising her with salt water taffy from Cape Cod or Top Pot Donuts from Seattle is sweet without being ooey-gooey.
She’ll appreciate the sentiment and if you’re lucky, she’ll share with you.
Drink up
Another option? Help her outfit her home bar. If you’re frequently meeting up for happy hour, put together a kit of her favorite cocktail mixings and suggest a boozy night in.
I’ll never say no to a classic Moscow Mule, for which you’ll need ginger beer, vodka, traditional Moscow Mule mugs, and a slice of lime (plus a dash of mint if you’re feeling festive).
To make your night in even more fun, add some competitive energy with a fun, old school game like Catch Phrase or Twister.
Batter up
As we mentioned in our “You’ve Said, “I Love You” V-Day gift guide, a gift that is actually doing something together is kind of obvious—but in a good way.
Making memories pretty much always trumps material things, if you ask me.
So, if you’re dating a sports fan, for instance get her a cap and two tickets to your local team’s opening day.
Baseball games make for a fantastic date and she’ll appreciate that you’re thinking about the future—even if it’s only a few (chilly) weeks away.
Tune in
If you share a love of music, go for the most thoughtful, least expensive gift ever: Make her a playlist!
It’s the digital age equivalent of a mixtape.
Create a mix of songs that are cool and romantic but not too, you know, bow chicka wow wow.
The ideal Valentine’s Day playlist has a balance of old and new jams.
Share some of your favorite new music, and add in some can’t miss icons like Paul Simon, Van Morrison, and the Beatles.
Don’t be afraid to wink at what’s really on your mind (and hers) with some cheeky, smile-inducing tracks like the modern classic “All Night Long” by Lionel Richie. Really!
Warm up
If you’re down to the wire and stumped for ideas, consider upgrading her favorite cozy accessory, like gloves, or the cute slippers above.
Anything that helps her get her hygee on in dreary February is #SGapproved.
A gift like this is cozy, sophisticated, and inexpensive. Perfect for a new romantic interest.
Plus, you can expect a “Thank you” text with a kissy face emoji the first time she wears them.
Now go forth and get romantic!
Don’t forget to check out the previous Valentine’s Gift Guides