11 Thoughtful Valentine's Day Gifts That Aren't Chocolate

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Nope, your SO will not be receiving chocolates or flowers on Valentine's Day this year. Skip the routine purchases and put a little thought into it — we promise they'll appreciate the extra effort. If you've been together for years now, you should definitely mix things up every now and then. And if this is your first Feb. 14 with your partner, make it an unforgettable one! Some of the ideas ahead will cost you barely anything, while some might cost you more — it's all up to you. Keep reading to get inspired.

01
Cook a Fancy Meal
StockSnap | WDnet Studio

Cook a Fancy Meal

Skip the reservation and attempt to make a multicourse meal yourself. You can enjoy the privacy and include their favorites.

02
Plan Something You Normally Would Hate Doing
Leah Moyers Photography

Plan Something You Normally Would Hate Doing

If you hate dancing or roller coasters, for example, but your significant other loves it, take one for the team. Your willingness to step far out of your comfort zone will be much appreciated.

03
Personalize a Gift

Personalize a Gift

Get their initials engraved on jewelry, have an inside joke stitched to a blanket, and more. This way, you can buy something your partner wants while still adding a personal touch. Like this handstamped bracelet ($18)!

04
Stuff Balloons With Notes
StockSnap | Kelly Sparks

Stuff Balloons With Notes

Fill your SO's room with balloons and surprise them with little notes in each one. Write things you love about them or fond memories you've had together.

05
Treat Them to an At-Home Spa Day
POPSUGAR Photography | Benjamin Stone

Treat Them to an At-Home Spa Day

Have a glass of Champagne waiting and the water running for them when they get home. Fill the bathroom with candles and their favorite scents, and be their personal masseuse for the evening.

06
Write Them a Love Letter
StockSnap | Jan Kahánek

Write Them a Love Letter

Even if your partner knows how much you love them, remind them again! Go old school and pour all your feelings onto paper.

07
Surprise Them With a Workday Delivery
POPSUGAR Photography | Sheila Gim

Surprise Them With a Workday Delivery

If you want your partner to receive flowers and goodies at their home or office, personally deliver them yourself if you can. Everyone else will have their orders sent over. If you can't make an appearance, have something else delivered like lunch.

08
Make Love Coupons

Make Love Coupons

As cheesy and classic as this DIY is, it's cute regardless, and you can customize them however you'd like. Get creative with it and go practical or super sexy.

Get inspired by this coupon book ($4)!

09
Curate a Personal Gift Basket
StockSnap | Paulina Lohunko

Curate a Personal Gift Basket

Instead of ordering an arrangement of treats, gather all their favorites yourself. Include snacks they love, their most-read magazines, wine, a book they've been dying to read, or other fun items.

10
Make a Scrapbook
StockSnap | Paulina Lohunko

Make a Scrapbook

Include your favorite photos together in a scrapbook, or document your milestones from the day you first met. Make sure to leave some pages empty so you two can fill the rest together.

11
Surprise Them With a Trip
StockSnap | averie woodard

Surprise Them With a Trip

This can be a local weekend getaway or an elaborate escape. Plan it all from the activities to the accommodations so that they don't have a thing to worry about.