Be Better Guys

Valentines Day, typically a favorite holiday for women, it’s just as important for us men as well. Done right, the time and money put into making your wife or girlfriend feel special could pay off for you as well. In my younger days, I was an advocate for breaking up before Valentine’s Day and rekindling the romancing afterwards. It was far more important to keep money in my pocket than to see a smile on her face; however, with age, I’m committed to finding a Valentine and spending it right. Besides, spending Valentines Day alone is no fun for guys either.

With my new mission to find a valentine, I also have a mission to impress. Valentine’s Day is one the biggest holidays where men have to prove our love and care through gifts. Unfortunately, the thought is not always what counts. Here at Be Better Guys we are committed to helping you show just how much you care without breaking the bank. It’s important to assess the status of the relationship and set a dollar amount. The girl you like doesn’t get the same gifting privileges as a girl you love and giving the wrong gift can have terrible lonely results. The most important thing is to remember that the goal is to make the woman in your life feel special. Spend the day showering her with attention and keep her in anticipation of the gifts that she will receive. A gift without thought, meaning or purpose is not to be given today. She will spend February 15 telling her friends what she received and you want to be sure that she is doing so out of happiness and not resentment.

The Be Better Guys gift guide is intended to be easy on the wallet and heavy on the heart. Show her just how much you care and she will return the favor. Start off the day with a love note, text message, or email. A few kind words will put a smile on her face and jumpstart the holiday. Include specific memories, mention the first time you saw her, and remind her why you two are together. Dig deep and include desires, fantasies, and future hopes. This is the one free gift you can give and the one she will cherish forever, so don’t hold back.

Flowers, Godiva, or Edible Arrangements, a gift that won’t let her down, yet perfect for any relationship status, be it new interest, mistress, or wife. Women love to show their friends that they have someone who cares about them and requires no time on your part. The standard dozen roses are sufficient, but spice it up and find her favorite colors, candy, and fruit.

Tiffany’s, the baby blue box and white ribbon, is able to capture the heart of a female like no other. It doesn’t matter what’s in the box, just so long that the jewelry inside is from the overpriced boutique and it’s guaranteed to gain brownie points and make for a great Valentines night. Tiffany’s is perfect for a girl that you are becoming serious about and want to impress. The heart bracelet around her wrist will serve as a reminder to her and others that she is taken.

Spa, the perfect gift for the mother of your children of he girlfriend who spends long evenings at work. Give her a relaxing day away from the hard work and can make it a couples trip, filled with couple massages, pampering, and quality time.

Dinner Date, great for the couple who has been together for years and have decided that Valentines Day is one to celebrate, but gifts are not of the necessity. Venture off to the newest restaurant that you both have been dying to try, but typically wouldn’t treat yourself too. Dress up, order a bottle of wine, and take the time to out to talk and celebrate your commitment. Today is the day to splurge on dessert. Chocolate covered strawberries are always a winner.

Hotel Stay, more direct, but will easily set the mood and transform an ordinary Valentines Day into a romantic getaway. Trap yourself in a room, order room service, and enjoy each other for 24 hours. Purchase the one gift that you will enjoy unwrapping, — Victoria’s Secret, and enjoy the spontaneity the night will bring.

Now that you know what you should give be sure to not purchase a gift that will easily ruin the day. Valentine’s Day is not the day to purchase a gift card or any gifts that implies you are not satisfied with her appearance or attitude. A gift card contains no thought and will negatively reflect on how much you care, where as a makeover or gym membership will imply that you no longer find her attractive.

To avoid an evening of her questioning your intentions and a lonely night, stay clear of the practical gifts. Follow the Be Better Guys gift guide and you’ll thank us later. Remember to make her feel special and she will do the same.

Byron Edwards is a new contributor to BBG. He lives in New York.