Valentine’s Day is not just for couples. The holiday, heavily promoted by the candy companies, can be celebrated with anyone- friends, family or your significant other.
But the question isn’t about WHO we celebrate with, it’s WHAT to get them that makes people squirm. And it all depends on who they are, and what they are interested in. Each gift should be unique and special to the individual.
Some conventional gift ideas for girls include: stuffed animals, gift cards to their favorite store, a bouquet of balloons, perfume and lotions.
No doubt the usual box of chocolates or flowers are just as good.
A more creative approach involves planning a special lunch date. This could be a picnic at the park, taking them lunch when they’re at work or a lunch date to their favorite restaurant. Just make sure to make reservations at least two weeks in advance.
For more romantic date try a spa day, making her breakfast in bed or taking her to a place that holds special meaning (i.e. where you went on your first date).
For those of you musically gifted or those who know how to play an instrument, record songs on the computer that mean something to them or to the two of you and make a CD.
Lastly, since a lot pf girls enjoy shopping, take her to the mall for a day of shopping. It doesn’t matter if you actually buy anything or not, but trying clothes on together is a fun way to spend the holiday. To add to the fun, let one another pick out an outfit for each other.
Girls may be more “complicated,” but guys can be just as hard to shop for.
Some gift ideas include: dress shirts, cologne, chocolate covered strawberries (Incredible Barries), valentine day fortune cookies (Oriental Trading Company) , candy heart-shaped oreo cookies (Veronica’s Treats, Inc).
For a more crafty gift, make a “big box of love” that includes rose pedals, old movie tickets, pictures, poems, personalized coupons and other mementos that remind you of him or each other and then wrap the box.
For those single ladies who feel like celebrating the holiday with friends, there are plenty of smaller gifts that are ideal for any close friend.
Baked goods are always a hit with anyone. Anything from cookies to cupcakes– especially if homemade, will light up your friends’ faces.
If your friends are more into glitz and glamour, give them nail polish sets or spend the day at the spa. Forever 21 has glitter nail polish in multiple colors starting at only $1.80 each.
Another great way to spend time with the girls is going out to see the latest “chick flick” or simply staying in and renting a classic.
Some titles to choose from when renting, include: “The Notebook,” “A Walk to Remember,” “Definitely Maybe,” “No Reservations,” “Ps I love you,” or “Because I said so.”
There are also plenty of attrations in the Los Angeles area that anyone can partake in.
Take a walk along the Walk of Fame and take pictures with your favorite celebrities’ stars, or take a trip to the Downtown Art Walk. There is huge selection of art at both the Museum of Contemporary Art and the LA Public Library.
For those of us who would rather stay local for the holiday. CSUN’s Orange Grove Bistro is hosting a Valentine’s Day Champagne Brunch. There will be live music, an omelet/waffle station, a chocolate fountain and more. Reservations must be made before February 8th. Tickets are $15.95 for students with ID.
Valentine’s Day does not have to be a lot of work or expensive. There’s a gift out there for everyone.
