Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas (That Aren’t Just Roses & Chocolates)
Valentine’s Day is all about showing someone you love them — your way. Whether you’re a hopeless romantic, a bit daft, or firmly in the “cards and cuddles” camp, the best Valentine’s gifts are the ones that feel thoughtful, personal and genuinely you.
Below you’ll find Valentine’s Day gift ideas to suit every kind of couple — from romantic keepsakes and creative makes-it-yourself ideas to foodie treats, experience gifts and even presents “from the cat”. Because yes, that is absolutely a thing.
This post contains affiliate links. I only share things I genuinely like and think would make lovely gifts. If you buy through one of my links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Romantic Valentine’s Day Gifts
Perfect for when you want to lean fully into the romance ❤️
A Handwritten letter
It might sound old-fashioned, but a handwritten letter is one of the most romantic gifts you can give. Write about your favourite memories, what you love about them, or even what you’re looking forward to in the future.
Tip: Use special paper or stationery to make it feel extra meaningful.
You could write it on some ‘Romantic’ paper, like this Eco Petal Handmade Writing Paper from Etsy.
A custom song or Poem
From love ballads to slightly silly verses, music and poetry have been wooing lovers for centuries. You could write your own — or commission a professional songwriter to turn your love story into a song.
You could even hire a professional songwriter, like from this custom song website.
A Star Map Print
A personalised star map showing the night sky on a special date — your first date, engagement, or anniversary — makes a beautiful keepsake and looks lovely framed on the wall.
Here is one I found on Etsy.
A Message in a Bottle
A love note sealed inside a decorative bottle is a simple but romantic gesture that feels straight out of a storybook.
Here’s one I found on Etsy.
Experience Gifts for Valentine’s Day
Because memories last longer than most gifts.
A year of Dates
A box of sealed date ideas is a brilliant way to make Valentine’s Day last all year. Look for sets with a mix of cosy nights in, adventurous outings and a few blank cards so you can add your own ideas.
Free PRINTABLE vouchers
You don’t need a fancy restaurant to create a romantic evening. Fairy lights, a homemade meal (or a very good takeaway), music and a nicely laid table go a long way. Printable “tickets” or menus can make it feel extra special.
These are FREE from me, print them out and make your own tickets and vouchers.
Theatre, Show or Comedy Night
A theatre trip, comedy night or live show makes a great Valentine’s gift — especially if you pair it with dinner or an overnight stay.
A Walk and a Picnic
February isn’t exactly picnic weather, but a scenic walk followed by a cosy flask of tea and sandwiches (possibly enjoyed in the car) can still be wonderfully romantic.
If you are going for the romantic picnic idea, get yourself a hamper like this one from Amazon.
A Cooking class for Two
Learning a new cuisine together is fun, interactive and ends with food — which is always a win.
Take a look at this ‘Date Night Cooking Class’ book from Amazon.
Creative Valentine’s Gifts
Ideal if you love something personal and one-of-a-kind.
Custom Couple portrait
Commission an artist to create an illustrated or painted portrait of the two of you. Etsy is full of talented artists offering a range of styles, from cute and cartoon-like to elegant and minimalist.
Take a look at Etsy for ideas, there are lots of artists there, with lots of different styles.
DIY scrapbook
Print out your photos (yes, actually print them), add ticket stubs, notes, and little memories. A scrapbook takes time, but it’s incredibly meaningful.
Take a look at this – Custom Handmade Scrapbook For Couple, Wooden Photo Album
Fun & Light-hearted Valentine’s Gifts
For couples who prefer laughs over long speeches.
Personalised Jigsaw
I love jigsaws! (I probably mention them alot in my posts). I would love a personalized jigsaw as a gift.
Check out these at Zazzle, where you can uploads your own photos and text and turn it in to a jigsaw puzzle.
Couples Game Night Set
A Card or board games designed for couples are a fun way to spend time together without screens
Like this one from Amazon.
Sentimental Valentine’s Gifts
Small things with big meaning.
Engraved Jewellery
Think coordinates of a special place, initials, or a short message hidden inside a locket or bracelet.
This locket from Etsy is sweet.
Custom Soundwave Art
Turn a favourite song or a spoken “I love you” into a soundwave print — subtle, stylish and very sentimental.
I found a few on Amazon, check them out here.
Love Coupons
Create a booklet of redeemable treats: massages, lie-ins, date nights or doing the dishes without being asked.
Self-Care Valentine’s Gifts
A gentle reminder to slow down and relax.
Personalised candles
A romantic candle, that you could write you own personalized message on,
Personalised gown
A his and hers dressing gown personalised with your names.
I like these from Amazon.
Spa Day at Home Kit
Include bath bombs, candles, and their favourite skincare products.
For him pamper day box
Take a look at these from Etsy.
Foodie Valentine’s Day Gifts
Because food is love.
A giant Flapjack!
What’s more romantic then a giant personalised flapjack? Surely this is the way to their heart, certainly mine!
Personalised Valentine's Cookie Gift Set
These delicious cookies are available in either vanilla or chocolate and topped with ombre pink fondant icing.
Valentine Chocolates
These look yum – Baileys Strawberry and Cream Hearts 90g Gift Box.
Valentine’s Gifts for Long-Distance Relationships
Love doesn’t stop at postcode boundaries.
Long-Distance Touch Lamps
These paired lamps light up when one of you touches it, no matter how far apart you are.
Like these – Telepathy Toddlers – Cute Friendship Lamp for Long Distance Relationships, Family & Friends
Matching Bracelets
Magnetic bracelets that “connect” when you’re together or vibrate when touched remotely.
Like these – TOTWOO Longdistance Touch Bracelets
Personalised Video Montage
Compile clips from friends and family sharing sweet messages about your relationship.
Valentine’s Gifts “From the Cat”
Because the cat obviously loves them too.
From the cat card
Perhaps you will be acting on behalf of the cat, who wishes you to send a card to their loved one. Perhaps they are sending a little message,
Personalised cat cards
A cuter, and more personalised card.
Rude valentine cards
This card is from Dean Morris Cards, most of them are quite a bit ruder than this , is you want to check them out.
Valentine’s Day Cards: Do You Still Need One?
Short answer: yes.
Even if you’ve bought a gift, a card is where you get to say the things that don’t fit on a label. It doesn’t need to be long or poetic — it just needs to be you.
What to Write in a Valentine’s Card
Here are a few ideas depending on your style:
Romantic
“Every day with you is my favourite. Happy Valentine’s Day.”
“I’m so grateful I get to love you — today and always.”
Simple & Sweet
“So lucky to have you. Happy Valentine’s Day.”
“You make my world better just by being in it.”
Funny
“I love you even when you steal the duvet.”
“You’re my favourite person. Don’t let it go to your head.”
From the Cat
“Thanks for the treats. Love, the cat (and the human).”
“I tolerate you. That’s love. – The Cat”
If you’re stuck, printable cards or fill-in-the-blank designs can really help — especially if writing isn’t your thing.
Free Valentine Printables
If you’re making your own card or gift, don’t forget to check out my free printables section — perfect for last-minute Valentine’s cards, tags and cute extras.
Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be expensive, over-the-top or overly romantic. The best gifts are the ones that say “I see you” — whether that’s through a handwritten note, a shared experience, or a daft card from the cat.
“Things People Always Wonder About Valentine’s Day Gifts”
Do you have to buy a Valentine’s Day gift?
Absolutely not — but a small gesture goes a long way. A thoughtful card, a handwritten note or planning something together can mean just as much as a physical gift.
What’s a good Valentine’s Day gift if you’re on a budget?
Personal gifts are often the most meaningful. A love letter, homemade vouchers, a scrapbook, or cooking a favourite meal at home can feel far more special than something expensive.
Are Valentine’s Day cards still important?
Yes! A card is often the part people keep. Even if your gift is small, a few heartfelt words can turn it into something truly memorable.
What should you write in a Valentine’s card?
Keep it simple and honest. You don’t need poetry — just say how you feel, why you appreciate them, or what they mean to you. A touch of humour is always welcome too.
See the section above for ideas.
What if Valentine’s Day feels awkward or cheesy?
That’s completely fine. Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be over-the-top. Choose something that fits your relationship — funny, cosy, practical or quietly sentimental all count.
Are experience gifts better than physical gifts?
They can be, especially if your partner values time together. Experiences create memories, while physical gifts often become keepsakes — the best choice depends on the person.
