Friday, February 4, 2011

Valentine's Day Presents to Avoid Like the Plague


In a New Relationship

Something that initiates long term
            Anything like a couple’s massage certificate, a pet for you both to share, or a large purchase for a home/apartment indicates you are ready for the long haul and could scare off a new love interest.

Spending too much money
            Expensive weekend getaways and lavish jewelry are things that should be saved for once your relationship matures because the risk of spending all that money when you barely know if your relationship is going anywhere does not make much sense.

Food options
            Food gifts can be very tricky as you may not know all their preferences just yet and they could have an allergy you don’t know about, making the gift useless. When the gift is for a woman, it becomes even sketchier. The woman may be watching her weight and will feel sabotaged by a gift of sweets and worse yet, just complain to the man relentlessly later about why it is their fault she gained weight. Going the other way is even more dangerous as offering a woman anything to help her lose weight, such as a gym membership, will only set you up for complete failure and resentment by the woman. 

Sending gifts to a work place
            Some people become embarrassed by all the attention and you may not know their position’s rank in the business enough to understand if it is appropriate to be receiving outrageous flowers and balloons.


In a Long Term Relationship

Traditional Flowers
            Roses and carnations are pretty but your significant other will probably enjoy you taking the time to find their favorite flower for a more personal touch.

Weight loss options
            This goes the same as in a new relationship: no significant other will take a gym membership the right way. Just avoid these types of gifts.

Practical items
            Your dwelling may need some touchups or additions but Valentine’s Day is not the time for practical gifts. Save the blenders, vacuums, and bedroom sets for Christmas.

No lingerie
            This will most likely be disastrous either way you pitch it. If you buy a size too big, she will believe you think she is fat. If you buy a size too small, she will believe you want her to be smaller and therefore; you think she is fat.

Cards
            If a card is given for Valentine’s Day, there should be a present with it. Just a card indicates you are a non-creative procrastinator. Even if there is a very limited budget, there are many other ways to show your affection. If anything, even make your own card as this at least shows you made the effort and didn’t wait until the last minute.

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