We’re less than two weeks away from the holiday every girl either loves or hates and I have a couple of ideas that might save your relationship this year. Do be advised that she’s dreaming of blue boxes, a dozen roses and a four-star dinner. Meanwhile you’re struggling to make those dinner reservations, finding roses at the last florist in town who isn’t sold out and hoping a pretty piece from Jared (yes, the jeweler) may appease her expensive taste. I understand, it’s hard out there for a gentleman.
The fact is she’s been working as hard as you. She can now successfully squeeze into that new dress and her search to find the perfect “come-[do]-me” pumps was not in vain. In return, she knows that you won’t forget the icing on the cake, the gift that comes after the frivolous collectibles. Let’s put it this way, if you aren’t currently searching for another teddy bear and a box of chocolates, you’re already a shoe-in to be her beau/remain her beau/boy who will get beau benefits for the night. Per Drake, thank me later.
-Magazine subscriptions
Though it’s true, diamonds are a girl’s best friend, Vogue is her “bestie”. The fact is, most women wouldn’t turn down a good guide to fashion and lifestyle with features on social and political issues. For a fashion savvy, socially conscious date, grab her a few year-long subscriptions to publications like Elle, Glamour and Harper’s Bazaar. Those are a few she’d undoubtedly enjoy.
-Eau de toilettes
Women love to smell good. Women love a fragrance they own. My nana had worn Chanel No. 5 ever since I could remember. Every year it was a gift she could count on receiving. Though it was one we knew she wouldn’t reject, last year we sent something different for her birthday and now she’s hooked on that something new. Give your Valentine a scent she’ll love and you’ll think you saved her life. While I adore women who wear the lighter, floral fragrances like 5th Avenue by Elizabeth Arden or Daisy by Marc Jacobs, some other crowd pleasers include Viktor Rolf’s Flower Baum and Fleurs de Nuit by Badgley Mischka. The ladder two are sophisticated, deep scents with touches of amber. Consider this, whether she likes the way they smell or not, at least the bottles are pretty.
-Salon treatment
If you want to knock-out Valentine’s Day AND secure that second date, treat her to a manicure and pedicure but go along too. In the 21st century, men don’t mind being as well groomed as their arm candy and I’m sure she might agree. Make it a treat; research spa services at luxury hotels in the area.
-Game/Concert Tickets
Buy game tickets for her favorite team or concert passes for her favorite artist. If you love live sports, this is another gift + second date idea. I pray you’re not a native Washingtonians and thereby fans of the Wizards/Redskins/Caps. If she’s dying to see Trey Songz (who is currently on tour), I’ll judge you for tagging along…
-Gift Cards
Classic go-to. Because it’s the idea that generally requires the least amount of brainpower, I’d urge you to think outside the box. Everyone who wants a gift card appreciates them for the stores they go to often. Put her on to some place different and she’ll be as happy as she’ll be surprised. According to Bernie Mac, “women be shopping!” Your permission to upgrade her experience has been granted and boutiques, arguably, do this best. Every large city is saturated with limited quantities of the ready-to-wear pieces seen on her favorite celebrities. Do be warned: some are less than friendly , most are overpriced , all of them want your money.
The painful reality is that this holiday isn’t about you. Another suggestion would be to console your mind (and your wallet) with the popular biblical adage, “it’s better to give than to receive.”
What Do You Think?
-Brian Riddick
Author
