8 Last-Minute Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas

The day of love has its way of creeping up. It paves its way in the path of relationships that have yet to be defined by February, and in the minds of those who forgot about it altogether. Then some didn’t expect to have plans at all. Finding a last-minute date might not be a simple task, but finding a last-minute gift idea? We can help with that.

1. An Activity for Later

If you’re short on time to vet and handpick the perfect gift, purchasing activity for the future is a last-minute gift that still feels thoughtful and special. Tickets to a museum or music event make a great date to look forward to. Get adventurous by reserving paddle boards or kayaks, or trying an archery class. (Feel free to take full advantage of the potential Cupid puns with that one.)

2. A Practical Personal Basket

Getting someone a pair of socks? Eh. One of their favorite chocolate bars? Okay. The face wash they’re addicted to? I mean, if you can predict where I’m going with this—a small thought is a small thought, and small thoughts are indeed valuable.

A series of small thoughts, indications that you understand the little things about a person can be really meaningful. Especially if you throw em’ all in a basket. Add some cellophane or tissue paper, garnish with a minimal card, and voila! You’ve got yourself a practical, pretty, considerate gift.

3. A Map of Your Relationship

A crafty keepsake that isn’t cheesy and could still be considered charming if you lack artistic ability? A map of your relationship. Hear me out—even if you’re not in a super-serious situation, it’s valid to make a significant map of say, little things like getting ice cream, or meaningful phone calls. Make it a map if you can recall lots of locations, make it a timeline if you can recall specific events. Make it both if you’ve got the time and passion! Get extra creative by heading to the craft store and adding some personal touches.

4. A Film Hit List and Snacks That Correspond

Whether you’ve got some form of the digital film library, hardcover DVD’s, or perhaps vintage VHS’s, movies always have a way of bringing the romance. Even movies that aren’t your typical rom-com can be romantic if they bring you together through laughs, screams, or cries.

Create a hit list, a film-marathon-to-attend, if you will, and grab some snacks that have something to do with at least one of the movies. It’s not trying too hard, intimate, and entertaining.

5. A Little Something for Them and Their Pet

If you’re feeling iffy about a last-minute gift you’ve got, add something for their pet! It’s a finishing touch that strikes an emotional chord, trust me. Many pet owners are obsessed with loving their pets. What better way to celebrate love and freshen a connection?

6. A Luxurious Blanket

Of all the items you could choose to get someone, an extra soft and decorative blanket is a choice that is likely to satisfy. It’s universal, who doesn’t need to feel warm at some point? Besides, it subconsciously says: think of me when you feel warm and comfy! It’s a sweet gesture.

7. A Healthy Valentine’s Day Dinner

Give a home-cooked Valentine’s Day added value by making an effort to concoct something that feels as good as it tastes. Not everyone is into “healthy” alternatives, but do they need to know about the swapped ingredients until after they realize they love it?

It’ll be a fun surprise, conversation starter, and the gift that keeps on giving when they start to give cauliflower pizza a chance. Also, don’t forget this can be done with dessert. How do chocolate chip cookie dough truffles sound?

8. A Subscription

Speaking of gifts that keep on giving, a subscription is always awesome to receive. Subscription boxes have become super popular. You can gift all sorts of things, food, wine, flowers, books, crafts, beauty products, and more. Whatever your Valentine is into, there’s sure to be a subscription they would enjoy.

Last-minute doesn’t have to be a doomed sentence to failing at Valentine’s Day. If it’s the thought that counts, you’re already ahead of the game.