Some day, in the not too distant future, ChatGPT or the like will act as our personal assistant, keeping us on task, making sure we get enough sleep, and reminding us of important dates. The app will ding 10 days in advance, asking if you’d like to buy one of three options for your wife for her birthday, your anniversary, and Valentine’s. It will then order (with wrapping, of course), and the gift will arrive in advance of said special occasion, making you look like a proper hero.
Until that day comes, though, we have to keep on top of our calendars ourselves. But with this cheat sheet of perfect last-minute Valentine’s gift ideas for your sweetheart, you can still come out on top. Better yet, as Feb. 14 looms and the frenetic pace of the new year becomes all consuming, you only need to remember a day or two in advance.
Thank goodness for the Information Age.
Last-minute Valentine’s gift ideas for women
For the Traditionalist
Red Roses & Drizzled Strawberries
Nothing says “I love you” like a dozen beautiful fresh red roses. For a woman who loves the traditional expression of love, you cannot go wrong with these quintessential Valentine’s flowers. This particular choice also adds a dozen white chocolaty-coated strawberries to satisfy her sweet tooth.
For the Jewelry Lover
White Gold Plated Tennis Bracelet
Tennis player or not, this 18k white gold tennis bracelet sparkles just like the real thing. It’s such a sweet, surprising gift, and she can feel equally comfortable pairing it with casual or special occasion looks.
For the Daydreamer
Message In A Bottle
If your sweetheart cried when she watched Robin Wright Penn’s classic movie “Message in a Bottle,” she just might be the perfect recipient of this present, one that is romantic and touching. Choose from notes written for a “new love,” a “true love,” or “someone special,” or write your own poem or letter. Chocolate truffles add an extra special Valentine’s touch.
For the Green Thumb
Heart Succulents
A more subdued way of wishing your loved one a happy Valentine’s Day, these cuddling succulents in a heart shape couldn’t be cuter. Succulents are loved by all and are easy to take care of, no matter your level of gardening expertise.
For the Sweet Tooth
Pink Rose Chocolate Cake
The absolutely exquisite pink rose frosting hints at — but does not reveal — what is underneath: a four-layer moist chocolate cake by the award-winning bakery We Take the Cake. Chocolate cream cheese frosting separates each layer, while beautifully crafted buttercream roses cover the outside. For those with different food preferences or allergies, try this gluten-free vegan chocolate cake instead.
For the Scroller
“I Love You” Magnificent Roses
Does your partner love texting “I
U”? Make her message a permanent display of love with this stunning yet cheeky gift box made with preserved red roses. Unlike those disappearing Snaps, this message will last forever.
For the Decorator
Monthly Flower Subscription
Many designers love a fresh flower bouquet gracing their entryway or table. Imagine the love she will feel every month when another gorgeous arrangement arrives at her door. Start in February and choose a three-, six-, or 12-month term — or let the blooms keep coming until you cancel!
For the Bubbly Drinker
Cherished Blooms Bouquet and Wine
A beautiful bunch of flowers accompanied by a bottle of sparkling rosé is a surefire way to touch her heart. Add these stemless flutes or chic and of-the-moment purple-hued glasses, and you have a memory that will last beyond the final sip.
For the Nostalgic Gal
The Love Glass Jar
Surprise your girlfriend, wife, or partner with a glass jar that can be filled with notes of love from you or missives to one another. Or, do as the monk, author, and life coach Jay Shetty suggests and have her fill it with wonderful reminders of things that happen week by week, all year long, and then reread each special note the following Valentine’s Day.
For the Fondue Lover
Fondue Tower Set
If she loves melted chocolate, then this little fondue set will tempt her. Pair it with fruit, cake, or cookies — or all three! — for dipping. It will be a night to remember for your chocoholic S.O.
Last-minute Valentine’s gift ideas for men
For the Oenophile
Reserve Pinot Noir and Artisan Belgian Chocolate
Send your love a bottle of 2018 Harry & David Pinot Noir packaged in a custom box with a little drawer at the bottom that holds delicious Belgian dark chocolate truffles. If you’re feeling extra generous, upgrade to one of two “deluxe” options, each of which features a second bottle of wine and either an assortment of desserts or a chest of savory and sweet treats.
For the Snacker
True Love Gift Basket
The name of this present is apropos: If your partner is a snacker, then he’ll see this gift basket as a sign of true love. With cookies, peanuts, popcorn, pretzels, and more, he might even give you the nod and share some of its deliciousness! If you’re feeling frisky, start perusing the Netflix options, because this option is perfect for movie night and chilling (wink, wink).
For the Doer
Breakable Chocolate Heart
For the guy who loves to fix everything himself comes a gift that’s right up his alley. He’ll have to pound on this chocolate heart with a mallet to reveal more goodies inside. Treats and breaking things? Sounds like a match made in heaven for most of the men we know.
For Mr. No-Nonsense
Satin Heart Box with Heart Truffles
Is your guy a traditionalist? Then he’ll appreciate the look of this old-school red satin heart-shaped box. Even more, we bet he’ll appreciate what’s inside: 28 assorted heart-shaped chocolate truffles.
For the Baker
French Macarons DIY Baking Kit
Does he love to bake for you? Then give him this kit for making scrumptious delicacies: French macarons. You’ll both benefit from this one!
For the Man of Few Words
Conversation Heart OREO® Cookies
A Valentine’s gift of conversation hearts decorated with straight-and-to-the-point messages is just right for the strong, silent type. And honestly, who doesn’t love an Oreo?
For the Guy’s Guy
Beef Jerky Flower Bouquet
A jerky bouquet in a pint glass? Who’da thunk it?! Oh, just the brilliant brains behind the Manly Man Co., a Southern California-based company started by a veteran that also has amazing offerings like Meathearts and Bacon-scented Gift Wrapping Paper. Sometimes, a man’s gotta man.
For the Comedian
Personalized Photo Boxer Briefs
If your man appreciates a good joke, then boxers with your picture and a note letting him know who has dibs will make him laugh out loud. Made from soft cotton and spandex, these machine-washable undies will immediately enter his regular rotation.
For the Golfer
Personalized Photo Golf Ball Set
If your guy is like most guys, then he’s more of a weekend duffer than a scratch golfer — and he can always use more balls. Put your smiling face, or perhaps a photo of his dog or child, on this set of personalized golf balls to remind him of who he loves most when he’s out on the course.
For the Boss
Personalized Full Pad Portfolio
Whether he leads meeting after meeting or is just starting out and taking interviews, help him show up looking organized and professional with a personalized portfolio that holds an 8.5-by-11 notepad. It’ll let him focus on the task at hand and not worry about where his pen and paper are. Plus, it’s a lovely reminder of your support.
