Finding a Valentine’s Day gift for a significant other can be stressful. Not only do you want to find something that they will love, you also want to find a gift which shows how much they mean to you and that you have thought really hard about what they might like.
Relationships on Female First
New research from eHarmony.co.uk found that when it comes to gift giving, 37 per cent find it difficult to find the perfect gift for their partner and a staggering 60 per cent of women and 44 per cent of men were disappointed with gifts they have received in previous years, mainly due to lack of though.
“Often people think of Valentine’s gift-giving as a way of showing-off and establishing yourself as someone who can provide. Think about the male bird that brings worms to the female bird to prove they are a worthy mate. So many people think all gifts need to be big and showy,” says Dr Gian Gonzaga, senior director of research for eHarmony.co.uk.
“However, a gift can mean so much more. The right gift shows your partner how in tune you are with them and your relationship. It can signal that you understand what they like and want. Across the long haul understanding your partner can act as a cornerstone of your relationship so your gift should reflect how well you understand your partner and your relationship.”
So as we approach one of the most romantic days of the year, follow these expert tips on how to be a good Valentine’s Gift Giver.
1. Plan – Don’t leave it until the last minute. Careful planning, well in advance of the day, will make it easier to find the perfect present. Grabbing the only thing you can find is a dangerous game as more often than not your last minute gift will look exactly that and will show a lack of thought.2. Start paying attention - If you are tuned into your partner, you are more likely to give very good gifts. Listen to your partner when they express an interest in something and try and remember it when you come to buying. Your gift can mean so much more. As well as being what they’ve asked for, it also communicates to your partner “I listened and understood you, even if you didn’t think I was paying attention at the time”. Your partner will be very impressed to receive a gift that they spoke to you about in the past.
3. Be selfless - The good gift giver will understand that it is not about themselves, but rather about their partner. Don’t buy your partner a present that you secretly hope to enjoy yourself. The gift you buy should specifically be for your partner and tailored to their interests, likes and wishes.
4. Make the extra effort – Going that extra mile to find the perfect gift will make a difference. Whether it’s a handmade gift that’s taken you months to prepare, an experience the two of you can share together, or a limited edition item that was difficult to track down, your partner will appreciate the extra effort that you’ve made.
Rigby & Peller’s Creative Director, Nicky Clayton, offers the following tips for successfully selecting the perfect gift this Valentine’s Day:
2. Don’t forget style – Style is just as important as size. Purchase something pretty, feminine and sexy as women generally don’t find practical bras romantic.
3. Outerwear is as important as underwear – Take note of what she wears most. Does she prefer tight clothing, deep necklines or loose clothing? Rigby & Peller’s friendly lingerie stylists will be on hand to help advise on the best choices to create the perfect silhouette.
4. Still unsure? – Still spoilt for choice or unsure, give the lady in your life a gift vouchers treating her to the infamous Rigby & Peller fitting experience. Alternatively, speak to one of the lingerie stylists who will be able to talk through what you’re looking for and guide you in the right direction.
tagged in relationships Valentine's Day relationship advice