Looking for gift ideas to spark some romance between you and your guy? Freelance writer Penelope Young has some suggestions no matter what stage you are in your relationship…
As the saying goes – Laughter is the best medicine. When faced with the stresses of everyday life, laughing not only helps us feel better but can be the sexiest thing a person can do. In every relationship, we tend to connect with our partner over things that make us chuckle and gradually let our guard down, showing our true selves.
Novelty items are a perfect little gift to purchase for any stage in a relationship (without breaking the bank!), and a good reminder for letting your partner know that you care about them. Funny t-shirts, coffee mugs or even bacon toothpaste can elicit a smile. If you relish the silly stuff, this is a good way to go.
Although the gift of humor may be just what the doctor ordered, some of the most meaningful gifts can’t be wrapped. Gifts that come from the heart (love letters, etc.) are thoughts and gestures that can transform a good relationship into a truly iconic one (i.e. the “Notebook”). Romantic gift giving also requires a special type of etiquette. Depending on the stage of the relationship, couples give and receive different gifts as their relationship grows. While some gifts may seem insignificant, others are much more expressive, touching the one you love on a much deeper level. Be consistent with your relationship status. Don’t be too extravagant if you’ve just started dating. As the bond between you grows over time, it’s okay to invest more time/money on a gift that reflects your heightened feelings of love and appreciation.
Good gift-giving requires a well thought out plan. Brainstorm. When it’s the thought that counts, make it count! Below are some gift giving examples depending on your relationship stage.
New or first date ideas (Less than three months)
Dos- Mirror your new relationship with a gift that reflects this stage. Think simple & sweet but don’t spend over $15-30. Flowers and candy are classic ways of expressing your intrigue.
Don’ts- While it’s a nice way to show that you’re excited at the prospect of a new relationship, don’t go overboard. Stay away from things that are not only costly but inappropriate as well. Steer clear of expensive jewelry, or trinkets. You don’t want to scare away your new prospect by appearing too eager and jumping in over your head.
Friends with benefits
Do’s- While you may not want a full blown relationship, giving a gift is a nice way of showing you care. Think of their favorite bottle of wine or gourmet beer. Perhaps even a good movie or book you know they’d like.
Don’ts- There’s no need to make things complicated by giving your “friend” something extravagant. Stay away from expensive or pricy items that might complicate your existing “friendship” by giving them the wrong idea.
Dating regularly
Do’s- Get them something you can both enjoy together. Movie tickets or a gift certificate to their favorite restaurant can add a level of intimacy and texture to your relationship while providing activities you can do as a pair.
Don’ts- Unless you’re ready to get back into dating scene, stay away from exercise equipment, self-help books or cleaning products.
Engaged/Newlyweds
Dos- Think of things to commemorate your special milestone in each other’s lives. Now’s the time to gift engraved jewelry, matching bikes, camping chairs, sleeping bags etc. Think of gifts that celebrate spending the rest of your lives together while building a firm foundation for the future.
Don’ts- Stuffed animals, clothing, wrinkle creams or waxing certificates are good gifts to give if you’re planning on sleeping on the couch.
Married
Dos- Break free from the everyday routine by surprising him/her with a mini-vacation. Between kids, household chores, and work, it’s a nice change of pace to find a new atmosphere, relax, and reconnect. On a budget? Book a local hotel room, dim the lights and enjoy some romantic time. Spice up the passion by relishing the ambience of being someplace outside your comfort zone.
Don’ts- If your significant other has dreams of ditching the kids with grandma before being whisked away on a romantic vacation; he/she might not appreciate another bouquet of wilted flowers from the grocery store. Think outside the box. Keep the vacation going by buying her a nice terry cloth robe or personalized wine bucket filled with ice next to the tub.
Penelope Young is a freelance writer & web coordinator. She enjoys reading and writing in her spare time, taking the dating scene in stride, and learning to live, laugh, and love. Her favorite hobbies include: kayaking, hot yoga, and long bike rides on cool summer days…
About Kelly Seal
Kelly is a freelance writer based in Los Angeles, CA. She blogs about dating, relationships, personal growth and what "healthy living" means to her. You can follow her on Google+, Twitter @kellyseal or through her website www.kellyseal.com.
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