Valentines Day: The Presents She Really Wants

Ohh, good ol' Valentines day.  The day that tests the stuff relationships are made of, right? God I hope not!  The thing is, as much as I would love to think differently and have tried, most men are just not romantic and never will be; they simply lack the Valentines day gene.  I never had a boyfriend on Valentines day until my freshman year of college- although we weren't officially dating, one would think this would be an opportune time to send things to the next level.  One would think, but one would be wrong.  The next year when we were totally together- you know what, this isn't getting much better, so rather than relive Valentines days long since past, its time to look into the future.  Men, as hard as it may be to get this through to you all, its very simple to make a girl happy, just make a plan.  Yes, MAKE A PLAN. I also understand this means make a decision, which is like asking you to fart and then not sniff it, but really its not that bad once you do it (or in that case don't do it).  Call at least two weeks before, pick a place you know she might like, or even that you like- it doesn't matter as long as you have a plan and if you are at the level where gift giving is involved, please dear god pick a different letter than Kay and don't go to Jarred's.  If i hear another commercial about how ever kiss begins with "Kay" and how he went to Jarred's Jewelry Depot I'm going to stick a hot rod in my ears.  Here are some gifts to fit a wide range of tastes and budgets.

 Made With Love Bracelets.  Every girl loves a bangle, or in this case 18.  Perfect for a girl who is big on philanthropy because:


"These bracelets are made from recycled rubber by women in Djenné, Mali providing them with a viable means of support and are sold to raise funds for L'Empire des Enfants, a school for homeless children in Dakar, Senega"


Available in six different colors, you can always mix them up and, if your so inclined, keep some for yourself.


If your girl is a budding fashionista, pick her favorite brand, blindfold yourself twirl in a circle around the store, stop, point and buy.  The likelihood she hates it is small and should she, she can return it, but at least you know she is going to get something she wants.  Can't make it to the store? Shop online. Tory Burch has some quick gift items she'll love.  A lightweight scarf is great because she can wear it no matter what the season (and the price won't break the bank).  This printed puppy is really cute.

Although most men would like to see their valentine in something sexier, she needs something she can wear the other 364 nights of the year.  These PJ's are really sweet without being something your mom would wear.

There are obviously some more romantic gifts out there, the thing is most girls are kind of over the whole "designer" jewelry phase.  If you get something from Tiffany's or David Yurman you are getting her a box more than anything else, and something that all her friends already have.   My man-friend has a no ring policy, which I think is really smart. A guy should get a girl one ring, once, its just awkward.  Girlie favorite Milly has recently come out with a small line of jewelry; this gold bamboo bangle will make her squeal and the price wont make you pass out.

I think maybe one of the reason jewlery is a Valentine's Day staple is because you can put it in your coat and take it out during dinner.  A classic monogrammed pendant is also a great gift... I've been after one of these forever.

This one is the best price i've seen so far, starting at $120.  Not only is it classic, it shows you at least know her name.  Best of luck brave soldiers, forge on.