The day on which we declare our undying love is coming soon… And let’s be honest, whether we find the occasion too “cloying” or “mushy”, whether we’re the type of person who finds it a “commercial holiday created to sell… bla bla bla”, knowing that our loved one took time and effort to do something special for us means something… until, that is, we open that fateful gift!
Because, if we’re going to be brutally honest here, there are gifts that make you go “Wow!”, and then there are all the rest! So, to ensure this holiday continues to be one celebrating love, and not break-ups, here is a little list of gifts to avoid at all costs!
1/ The non-existent gift
That mean’s Nothing. Nada. Niente. You can try going this route, but beware! Remember, the proverb says “it’s the thought that counts”, so you’re better off giving something that may not be totally amazing if you want to be forgiven (some day)!
2/ The ephemeral gift
That classic gift! Flowers, chocolates… they’re gone almost as soon as they’re received! The pleasure is short lived, very short lived! TOO short lived!
3/ The “I didn’t try too hard” gift
You find something that works and keep on giving. Your sweetheart may not dare say anything, but while this gift may have been special five years ago, your lover may not appreciate receiving it again, and again, and again! (If you realise this, there’s hope for you yet: there are plenty of other gifts to choose from!)
4/ The gift that may be useful… some day
Innovating is great, but frankly, do you really think that a fondue set or vacuum packing machine is that special thing that’s missing in your lover’s life?
5/ The “I killed myself looking for this, so you owe me big time” gift
Woah! Your soul mate’s not expecting a trip for two to the Bahamas, or a sports car with all the options for Valentine’s Day! When compared with the more reasonable gift your beloved is just dying to give you, you risk creating a rather uncomfortable situation. Fuggedaboutit!
6/ The “iceberg” gift
You know, the one with a hidden side. That amazing gift that wasn’t expected but that requires other things to be complete. Example: number one of a collection of 30 articles, a super high-tech mokaccino machine that only works with capsules that cost five pounds a pop…
7/ The risky gift
Buying a size 24 jumper for a woman who wears a size 12, buying tickets for a horserace for a man who’s a huge Manchester fan… DANGER! If you’re not 100% sure of yourself for delicate topics like this, turn to plan B!
8/ The gift “with a hidden message”
How can we tell you this? Even if you wish your dearest would take better care of him/herself, an anti-cellulite crème (even if it really works), a gift card for leg waxing, or a membership at a gym may not express the appropriate message for the day of love!
9/ The knick-knack
Need we say anything more?
10/ The “I LOVE THIS” gift
Love may be blind, but come on! Even if your sweetheart loves you to death, he/she’s not going to be fooled when you give the gift you’ve been going on and on about! Gentlemen, you’re often the guilty party in this department: “Here darling, here’s giant flat screen TV to watch the soaps on!” Yeah, right.
So, now you know! And if you’re short on ideas, you know where to go for some great ones: www.monbento.com.
Happy Valentine’s Day! <3