Every year on Valentine's Day many people celebrate their affection for a loved one by spending their day with the person they love most. Valentine’s Day dates back since before the Middle Ages when affection was expressed with a mutual exchange of love notes in shapes of hearts, doves, and Cupid. Ready-made cards were an easy way for people to express their emotions in a time when direct expression of one's feelings was discouraged. According to one legend, St. Valentine actually sent the first 'valentine' greeting himself. It is believed that Valentine fell in love with a young girl who visited him during his confinement. Before his death, it is alleged that he wrote her a letter, which he signed 'From your Valentine,' an expression that is still in use today. February has long been a month of romance, and finally on February 14 around 498 A.D., Pope Gelasius officially declared it St. Valentine’s Day.

Today, Valentine’s Day is associated with cards, flowers, candy, and a mutual exchange of gifts ranging from jewelry for women, to ties for men. Make this Valentine’s Day special for that special someone by purchasing a gift that’s unique, functional, and will last for years to come.

Gifts for Her

It’s true; most women do love to receive jewelry. But that doesn’t entitle diamonds and other precious stones. Distinctive, one of a kind pieces will do just the trick. Vintage jewelry is the new trend in fashion. Unique jewelry from Lois Hill will wow her and never go out of style. All women love anything that's soft on their skin and a robe or throw is something she can slip on and enjoy. Indulge her in soft cozy robes and throws that she can wear around the home and relax in. Of course, no Valentine's Day for a woman is complete without a card or flowers to add a personal touch your special gift.

Gifts for Him:

Men enjoy gifts that are practical as well as cozy. A gift he can use daily, like men’s personal hygiene products; shaving creams and durable razors, are essential to men’s grooming. Lounging gifts for men are very popular (and well received). Treat him to a comfy pair of UGG slippers that he can wear indoors and use for a quick run to the store. For a cold, early morning work day, spoil him with a top notch thermos from HighWave JOEmo that will keep his drink hot for up to six hours! Your loved one will appreciate a gift he can use daily or get comfy in after a long day’s work.

Valentine's Day is about embracing our loved ones and showing appreciation. Spending the day or sending a note to the one you love is the best way of expressing your affection. If you chose to go the extra mile, the gift you select should be thoughtful and unique so shop around and make this Valentine's Day one they'll remember for years to come!

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

Article Written - January 29, 2009.