Showing posts with label Gift Guide. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Gift Guide. Show all posts

2/11/2018

What I Got For My Birthday | Just Add Ginger


What I Got For My Birthday posts are some of my favourite to read. But up until last year I never felt very comfortable doing one myself because, well, I didn't want anybody to think I was trying to brag. But I had so much fun doing last year's post that I wanted to continue on the tradition - not only to express my thanks to those of my nearest and dearest who kindly bought me gifts, but also to provide a little bit of present inspiration - just in case anybody reading this is trying to think what they should get that someone special for their birthday.

birthday presents

My birthday falls the other side of the festive season when everybody is feeling low and lethargic after a couple of weeks of indulgence so the only thing I look for in my birthday is a day full of things I love doing. And because this was my first as a mummy I was extra excited to spend it with both of my boys. But as ever, I was blown away by the kindness of my friends and family and just wanted to say thank you to all of those who sent me cards, bought me a gift, and sent good wishes to me on the day.

After getting me such an amazing hamper filled with my favourite food and beauty treats for Christmas, I didn't think Ryan could do anything to top it. But he completely blew me away this year. Not only did he buy me a wall lamp for our bedroom (which I asked for) but he also surprised me with tickets to see Legally Blonde in the summer. I mentioned wanting to go and see it again a while ago so he must have really been paying attention. I absolutely love that musical and am so excited to take him along this time because I think he'll really enjoy it (he wouldn't want to admit it, but the film is one of our go-to feel good favourites). But the most special present was getting to spend the day with him. I'd asked him to book it off as holiday and we made our time really count with a lovely dinner the night before at Yukti, a yummy breakfast, and then a day busy doing nothing. 

After a good portion of last year being spent trying to snatch time to create content I've been really wanting to get back into practising good time management and organisation when it comes to blogging and filming for my channel. So with that in mind I asked my parents for a planner from Dot Creates. I had seen Louise Pentland feature them in one of her videos and knew that having a designated place to jot down ideas and keep track of where I'm up to in terms of blog posts would be ideal. And so far it's really helping. I've got enough ideas written down to take me up to May and I love the layout of the planner, with both overview and more detailed pages. Plus the design so darn cute. If you're in the market for a blog planner, I'd definitely recommend going to check out Dot Create's collection

Ryan's parents very kindly got me a snuggly blanket shawl and a new set of make up brushes. They know me really well because after spending most of my pregnancy feeling warm I am now back to really feeling the cold. Having a portable blanket to hand means that I am prepared for when the chill creeps in (it'll also be really handy to have in the car for longer journeys). I also can't wait to get stuck into using the make up brushes. I get into such bad habits when it comes to washing my brushes that having another set to use is really useful. Now with two sets to hand I can no longer make the excuse of not being able to clean my brushes because I wouldn't have any to use. 

My sister and brother in law treated me to a voucher. And I love a good voucher. Having options and indulging in a little online shopping makes me really happy, especially nowadays. I wasn't able to find any clothes I wanted or needed but I ordered four Disney Princess sheet masks by Mad Beauty. They are absolutely adorable and perfect for setting aside for pamper evenings. I've used one already in preparation for a night out and I was really impressed so I have high hopes for the rest (I'll be sure to do a blog post on these once I've treated my skin to some tlc. 

Little Eric also decided to surprise his mummy with a bouquet of flowers, a box of chocolates and a balloon. He also slept pretty well the night before so I managed to have a little bit of a lie in before we headed out to his class in the morning. 

I had an absolutely fantastic birthday. I was quite lonely on the day last year but this one totally made up for that. And now I just can't wait to see what lies in store for my thirty first year. I have a feeling it's going to be awesome. 

2/08/2017

Valentine's Day Gift Guide For Her | Just Add Ginger


valentine's day gift guide - Just Add Ginger blog

Valentine's Day is a mere week away. Not just a celebration for if you are in a relationship, it can be a time to treat all your loved ones, be it a boyfriend/girlfriend, husband, wife, best friend, or even yourself!

If you are still trying to think of a last-minute gift, are in the mood for a little pamper session, or are just in the mood to treat yourself, here are my top gift ideas:

Valentine's Day Gift Guide


Pampering

The biggest idea selection I have by far because taking some time out to relax is one of my favourite pastimes, the first few gifts are just perfect for those who love nothing more than to switch off and soak in a roasting hot bath.

In December, I reviewed a bath blaster from SoapBombs. Having been so impressed, when it came to collecting my thoughts on gift ideas, theirs was the first website I visited to see if they were bringing out a Valentine's Day collection. With a tab dedicated to products suitable for the day of love, I was instantly drawn to the Love Cloud Gift Pack. The perfect gift for bath lovers, and containing five of their pretty products, it looks gorgeous and does not break the bank (it retails at £13.99). This is one of those presents that will go down a storm and inject some extra girly vibes into anybody's beauty stash.

For those looking for something a little more high-end, then one of the Laura Mercier Bath products would go down a treat. A frequent feature on any of my wishlists, I just love their luxe look and the added feature of a honey dipper for a novel and quirky touch. Plus all the scents smell amazing. And what better way to add to the atmosphere than burning a beautiful three wick candle from The White Company? With a number of different fragrances to choose from, these again would be an ideal choice if you really want to splash out and spoil that special someone.

And once she's had some time getting comfy and cosy in the tub, then in my opinion you just can't go wrong with a luxurious body lotion. The ESPA Bergamot and Jasmine fragrance is one of my all-time favourites. Spicy, warm and incredibly comforting, lathering the body lotion on will help skin smell sensational, and keep it feel super-supple too. And if you fall in love with the smell of it too there's a bath foam, body wash, hand wash and  hand lotion to match!

Food and Drink 

Another regular guest on many of my gift wishlists, in my opinion any of the Charbonnel et Walker truffles are the ideal chocolate for Valentine's Day. My ultimate favourite are the Strawberry truffles, which, for some reason I can't find on the website but I have spotted in John Lewis (they're also on the website). If you can get your hands on these, definitely consider picking some up and try to sneak a few whilst she's not looking - you won't be disappointed. Wash down with a glass orc two of your favourite tipple (nothing says love like a bottle of Veuve) and you're all set for a romantic and incredibly decadent day.

Fashion and Beauty 

Want to say it with flowers in a really un-traditional way? I spotted some embroidered ankle boots on the New Look website and instantly fell in love. I think these would make the perfect Spring accessory for any fashion lover, and even if she doesn't wear a lot of colour or likes to be outlandish when it comes to style, these would make a subtle talking point that would look great with any outfit. I think this style has been really popular on the website, but there are other variations available that are just as pretty!

More into lipstick bullets than block heels? Say it with Charlotte! Again inspired by my magpie tendencies, one of these stunning shades in sumptuous rose gold packaging would no doubt take centre stage on her dressing table or in her make up drawer. A little bit splurgy, but what better excuse to treat the one you love than Valentine's Day?

Stay Traditional

You can't go wrong with flowers. A huge fan of fresh bouquets, I always get so sad when those pretty blooms start to wilt and have to be thrown away. I think investing in a beautiful arrangement is a great alternative. Yes they can be a little bit expensive, but they will last and last and act as a constant reminder of the day. Next have got some really pretty options at the moment, ranging from minimal to magnificent, and suitable for a range of budgets - big or small.

What will you be treating your loved ones - and yourself - to this Valentine's Day?

1/30/2016

Valentine's Gift Ideas For Her | Just Add Ginger

Valentine's Gift Ideas For Her

This year, Boyfriend and I have decided to keep Valentine's Day really low-key. With the wedding coming up, and lots of things we need to do, we are just keeping 14th February really understated. Our plan is to cook a nice meal and just spend some quality time together before things get really crazy.

Valentine's Day is about celebrating all kinds of love, so with that in mind, my gift guide this year is one that can be applied for a special lady in your life - be that a partner, a best friend, a relative, or yourself. Love comes in many forms, and, contrary to what society may tell us, this special day should be about recognising all the different forms of love we have in our lives.

It wouldn't be a gift guide of mine without mentioning something from ESPA Skincare. We all know how much I love this brand. If you are buying for someone who loves to soak in a roasting hot bath and completely pamper themselves, the Bath Oil Collection  would make a perfect little luxurious present, and provide the chance to sample a range of different blends. It's also a great gift to introduce somebody to the brand.

Following on with the pampering theme, you simply cannot go wrong with a bottle of fizz, a box of her favourite chocolates, or bouquet of flowers. I get so excited when Boyfriend surprises me with flowers. It's always such a surprise. If you are like him, and what I like to call "unexpectedly romantic" then any of these gifts will go down a treat. My favourite luxury chocolates are the Charbonnel et Walker Strawberry Truffles. They are rich, and indulgent, and I feel so naughty eating them because they are a little bit on the more expensive side. For fizz,you can't go wrong with prosecco, Asti, or even champagne, and when it comes to flowers, either fresh or artificial blooms look beautiful, and are a great thing to display. Clock on to what her favourite flowers are, and you're definitely on to scoring more points!

If she loves make up, keeping an ear out and picking her up a gift from her favourite brand to add to her collection would be a fantastic present, and something she would really appreciate. Currently I am lusting after so many Too Faced products. I got the Chocolate Bar Palette with some Christmas money, and I am honestly obsessed with it. Next on my list is the Natural Eyes palette because, quite frankly, I have an eyeshadow problem, and the colours in this collection just look so pretty.

I'm not going to lie to you, when I saw those super cute mugs as I was making this board I knew I had to feature them (you can find them here. ) But for a lover of tea, coffee, hot chocolate, or any warm beverage, a super-cute set of mugs accompanied by their favourite drink would make a great little care package present, especially if they live somewhere cold or are susceptible to feeling the chill easier.

A watch is definitely an awesome accessory, and there are just so many beautiful timepieces out there that you can easily find one to suit your budget. From pretty pinks and rose golds, to watches with big faces, to more classic leather straps or metal links...the options are endless. Spend a little more and get it engraved for extra sentimentality, or go back and buy one you know she's been eyeing up. Watches are one of those things that look good no matter what you wear them with, and never go out of style.

What will you be treating your loved one to this Valentine's Day?

Remember to pamper yourself too!




3/11/2015

Mother's Day Gift Guide 2015 | Just Add Ginger

Mother's Day Gift Guide


If you live in the UK, you will know that Mother's Day is fast approaching (it's on Sunday 15th March - just in case anyone had forgotten!) Now, if you're like me, and find it particularly difficult to buy a gift for your mum, I have put together a last-minute gift guide to hopefully give us all (me included) some well needed inspiration.

A present that pampers is always a good place to start. And if you have been following my blog lately, you will know just how much I love ESPA. I have loved everything I have tried from the brand and think something from the range would make for a gorgeous gift. My top two recommendations are the ESPA Bergamot & Jasmine Foam Bath, or one of the ESPA candles. I am a huge advocate of the foam bath (you can check out my review of it here,) and the candles just exude opulence and luxury. I have one from the winter collection, and once lit, it fills the room with the most gorgeous scent. Even though the one that I have isn't available any more, it's definitely worth checking out the rest of the collection. ESPA is on the more high-end side of beauty products, but it is well worth the investment, and I wouldn't ever sing the praises of a brand I didn't believe in.

Mum not a bath or candle fan? Not to worry. How about indulging her in a brand new perfume? You can either be brave and guess on a new scent for her to try, or you could go for a perfume you know she already loves. Either way, with so many pretty packaged perfumes and so many different scents, you can't go wrong.

For a twist on a perfume-y gift, why not go for a reed diffuser instead? There are so many different scents to choose from that - like with the perfume - you can't really go wrong. And some come in really pretty bottles too! I've tried one from The Body Shop before (a Christmas-sy Gingerbread one) and it made the room smell absolutely delicious. For a more opulent, luxurious option, I'd have no hesitation in heading to Jo Malone. The Peony and Blush Suede cologne scent is one of my all-time favourite fragrances. So long-lasting and yummy-smelling that I can only imagine how amazing the diffusers are!

Say it with chocolate. MG and I share the biggest sweet tooth, and I know she would love to tuck in to her own box of luxury chocolates. The Charbonnel et Walker chocolate truffles are always the first place I look if I'm in need of a chocolate-y gift to give to somebody. There are a lot of different flavours of truffle on offer, but my favourites are the Strawberry and the Pink Marc de Champagne, but I am gradually going to sample my way through the rest (for gift research purposes of course!)

What goes well with chocolate? A nice cup of steaming hot tea. If your mum is a big tea drinker, how about adding a "tea for one" set or beautiful teacup to her collection? I found a gorgeous Tea for One set on the Tesco website and I think it's just beautiful. So understated and chic, and the perfect addition to any tea-lover's collection.

And whilst your mum is settling down over a cup of tea, why not give her a new book to read? This could be a book that is new to your mum, that has sentimental value, or that you think your mum would like. As a big fan of Philippa Gregory, I would pick a book that MG has not read with a Tudor-based storyline. The Tudors is my favourite period in history, and something that I like to share with my friends and family. Gregory makes for a brilliant author as well and depicts Tudor life to perfection.

I am totally in love with my Chanel lipstick. By far the most expensive make up item I own, wearing it just makes me so happy and feel so beautiful. If I was going to treat MG to a beauty gift, it would be something high end. If your mum doesn't wear a lot of make up, then a high end piece would be a real investment, and something that would bring a little luxury in to her beauty regime - an exciting branch out from drugstore brands. If your mum is a make up lover, I'm sure there is a product out there that she has been itching to get her hands on. Why not treat her to something she loves from a favourite brand?

Last but by no means least, we can't forget about jewellery. Whether it's an investment piece or just something you think your mum will love, jewellery can be the perfect way to say "I love you."  Jewellery can hold a lot of sentimental meaning, and a piece carefully chosen by you means that every time your mum wears it, she will think of you.

8/17/2014

Gift Guide For Mums

Gift Guide For Mums Just Add Ginger


MG's birthday is coming up soon. And she won't be upset if I admit this but she is notoriously difficult to buy for. You go to suggest something and she turns it down, or, you try and hunt for clues as to what she might want, and she immediately thwarts your attempts. It can sometimes be a nightmare.

If, like me, you are always pulling your hair out trying to decide what to get your mum (or another female relative) for their birthday, I thought I'd put together a little collection of ideas that will hopefully give some inspiration and make the process a bit less tricky.

1. Afternoon Tea: I did actually buy this for my mum one year, and she really enjoyed it. She pootled on down to London to The Ritz and enjoyed a day out and a bit of afternoon tea and cake with one of her friends. Sometimes it's not about actually giving somebody a gift, it can be about giving them a memory that will stay with them. And particularly if your mum is the type that doesn't really spend time treating herself, a gift like this is perfect to give her a little bit of a pamper.

2. Ted Baker iPad Case: PG actually treated mum a bit earlier this year and bought her an iPad Mini, I think he was a bit tired if her wanting to steal his tablet all the time so bought her her own (I'm a bit jel!) So an iPad case is actually something that I wad really considering getting her for her birthday, and the Ted Baker ones are so cute that it was hard to resist. They are such a pretty accessory to carry your iPad round in, and the assortment of colours mean there'll be one to suit every mum's taste.

3. Lolita Wine Glass: I just think the glasses by Designs by Lolita are gorgeous. They've been a constant presence on any mental gift list (although I only own one myself...I need to look in to that.) They come in so many different designs, and the brand also does shooters, pilsner glasses and champagne flutes, so regardless of your mum's tipple of choice, there's bound to be a glass and style that suits her personality.

4. Make Up: MG's never been a big make up wearer, but with mine & Boyfriends nuptials peeking out from the future, I think it might be time to help mum invest in a beautiful high-end lipstick so that on the big day she feels like a D-iva! Every time I walk past the beauty counters in the department stores in town, I am dazzled by the pretty packaging and sumptuous shades of lipstick that I see. If your mum deserves a bit of a pamper, and she's not normally a make up wearer, a designer lipstick is a really lovely present for her to pull out on special occasions, and enhance her beauty.

5. Scarf: Scarves are brilliant. They come in so many different shapes, sizes and design that you can never have too many (in my opinion.) Even if your mum doesn't war that many scarves, they are a brilliant piece to add to her wardrobe. Not only  do they accessorise an outfit, but they can also be tied round the handle of her favourite handbag to add a bit more Ooomph. 

6. Sweaters: Now if ther's anything my mum loves, it's a sweater. And especially if that sweater has a cute picture, or some embellishments. In her job, she likes to be as comfortable as possible, whilst still looking smart and fun. There have been quite a few years where a cute sweater has featured as part of her birthday present, and if I'm ever out/online shopping and spot one, I just can't help but pick one up for her.

7. Theatre Trip: This is actually something that MG,PG, Boyfriend & I are doing already. For her birthday, MG really wanted to see Les Mis. I - of course - agreed immediately, hand flying in the air "pick me, pick me," but PG & Boyfriend weren't so keen. So, for her birthday outing, me and MG are going to see Les Mis, and PG & Boyfriend are going to see The Woman in Black. Then afterwards we are meeting up for tea. Just like the Afternoon Tea option, going on a trip, whether it's to the theatre, or the zoo, or for a picnic in the park, memories can be such strong gifts to give.

Any gift ideas for mums? Share them in the comments below.

6/08/2014

Father's Day Gift Guide

Father's Day Gift Guide


If you live in the UK, Father's Day is only just around the corner (next weekend) and if you're still trying to think about what you can get your dad for his special day, or lacking in an inspiration, I have compiled a few gift ideas for you to think about. 

I've always been a strong believer that buying gifts should be a really personalised experience for the recipient. You may have to think for a while about what they will appreciate the most, but there will always be something - no matter how big or small a gift - that will fill them full of joy. 

Papa Ginger, for example, has always been an appreciator of a fine beer. He scoffs all the time (along with Boyfriend) at my beers of choice. Treating him to a pint glass like the one above, particularly one with a funny message, would be something I think he'd really enjoy. 

If you are feeling in more a creative mood, making or customising a gift always adds a really personalised and meaningful touch. It doesn't have to be anything huge. How about selecting a few of your favourite photos of you and your dad and displaying them in a frame? Or if you like to express your creative side, find your sketching pencils, paints or pastels and create your own masterpiece. One of my sketches is up on the wall in PG's study, and knowing it's up there and he enjoys it so much really fills me with a warm fuzzy feeling. 

Does your dad always start the day with his hot drink of choice? How about an upgrade on his tea/coffee-making device? It can be a bit more of a pricey gift, but if you know it is something he will appreciate and use daily, you will definitely get bank for your buck. Before you know it, he'll be a barista in training!

They may seem like very traditional gifts, but I quite like the nostalgic-feel of giving the gift of a tie or dressing gown. Maybe it's because I love to lounge around in mine so much, or maybe it's because deep inside I'm a little Ginger Granny who loves to be cosy all the time. Either way, if your dad's dressing gown looks as though it's seen better days, or he works in a job where he needs to war a tie, treating him to some new apparel could be the perfect gift. There are some really, really lovely colours, styles and designs out there to suit all price ranges. Finding a luxurious looking tie or dressing gown will help your dad feel very much like the dapper superhero. 

Papa Ginger doesn't drive, but if your dad does, how about an experience day driving a fast car? He will feel like James Bond/ an F1 star in the making. I know that if you're in the UK, Red Letter Days & Buyagift offer a range of experiences to choose from (I've used Buyagift in the past.) From Supercars, to tanks, to adventure days gal;ore. If your dad is a bit of a daredevil, an experience day will definitely get that adrenalin pumping. And if it's something you can do together, it'll be a marvellous way to create new memories! 

If you are a GoT addict, please raise your hand. Yep. Me too. And I am not ashamed. If your papa is a Game of Thrones devotee too, then why not treat him to a series boxset or two. That way he can re-live his favourite episodes....Especially in the long wait that there usually is between seasons. They do like to keep us wanting more, don't they?

Personalised gifts are one of my most favourite things to shop for. Something that is quite an ordinary gift can be instantly given a sentimental touch by adding a special message, quote or date. Two of my favourite ideas for dads (aside from the beer glass) are a good watch, or a keyring. A lovely-looking timepiece with a little message personal to you and your dad will always have special meaning, and the keyring option he will see every time he goes open the car or unlock the house. With so many different choices, and price ranges out there, you can really go to town creating a very special gift.

What are you getting your dad this year/? Any other cool ideas, share them in the comments below.


4/30/2014

Anniversary Gift Ideas (For Him)


Anniversary Gifts



On 1st May, Boyfriend & I will have been together for one whole year. 

I can hardly believe it. Where has this year gone? 

Because it's our first anniversary of "togetherness," I knew I wanted to get him something special. And of course, me being me, I couldn't wait to give him his gift... 

...So he's already got it. 

I think a first anniversary gift should be something memorable, or that can be turned in to a memory. When it came to deciding what to get Boyfriend, I knew exactly what to do (don't worry it's one of the ideas above!) But I thought that for those of you out there who may need a bit more help, that I'd put together a list of my top 5 gift ideas for your guy on your special day. 

1. A Jar Of Love: This is what I made for Boyfriend. The concept is simple. A jar of love is a symbol of all the things that make up your love and affection for the person that you are with. I bought a simple mason jar from a local shop, and filled it with notes of what I love about Boyfriend, inside jokes we have, memories we share....So that when he is having a shitty day, or there are times when we are away from each other, he can pull out a "love note" and read it. It's a really inexpensive, but really personal way of expressing your love, and means that he always knows he is in your heart.

2. Going Away: Planning a trip so that you and your other half can spend quality together time is a perfect way for you to celebrate your relationship. Especially if you don't see each other that much. It doesn't have to be an expensive trip. It could be a day out at a museum, a picnic, a weekend away....Tailor it to your budget. Boyfriend and I are actually doing this as our big anniversary celebration and having a staycation in Liverpool the weekend after our actual anniversary date. Time together is precious. And with a weekend away or day out, a heap of new couple-y memories can be made. 

3. Dressing Gown: Some of you might think this is a bit of an old man gift, but I believe in the power of a really cosy, good quality dressing gown. They come in all different shapes and sizes and a good one can last you years. And every time your man goes to wear it he will think of you (especially of you give it a quick spritz of your perfume beforehand.) 

4. Watch: Like the dressing gown, I think watches can be a great gift. Especially because they are an accessory that can be worn with anything. Getting a beautiful statement timepiece is wonderful. But it's even more personal if you get it engraved with a message. It could be a special date. It could be a quote. Heck it could even be a stupid made up word or phrase you share. Whatever it is, make it personal to your relationship. That way every time he put it on, he think of you and the time you share together...! 

5. Tickets: Does he love a particular band? Want to see a certain show? What better way than to make it an experience you can share together. It may not be going to see someone you've ever heard of, but by sharing something that he enjoys, you are understanding more of his world. I bought Boyfriend Brit Floyd tickets in the summer, knowing not much about Pink Floyd music and now I love them. Every time I hear a Pink Floyd song I'm taken back to being at that gig and seeing how much Boyfriend was loving being there. Those memories are priceless! 

What would you recommend as a first anniversary gift? 

1/29/2014

Valentine's Day Gift Guide - For Him

Valentine's Day Gift Guide - For Him


Valentine's Day will be upon us in just a few short weeks.

If - like me - this is the first Valentine's Day you'll be spending with a new special someone, then chances are you may be sitting there racking your brains about what to get them as a gift.

With this in mind, I decided to put together a small selection of gift ideas that may provide you with some inspiration.

1. Pampering: For our first Valentine's Day together, Boyfriend & I are going to be taking a trip to the LUSH Spa in Liverpool for a double treatment (don't worry, he knows we are already.) He works really hard in his job, and deserves to be pampered so I thought I'd take a chance and book us both in for something special so that we both get some "me" time but spend quality time together.

Having a spa day/break will help you both get uber-relaxed and wash all outside stresses away. There are so many wonderful spas and treatments out there that no doubt you will find one that suits both you & your boyfriend/husband.

2. Champagne: If he likes to indulge in  some yummy bubbles, selecting a really beautiful bottle of champagne/prosecco could be the perfect gift. Especially if it comes in one of those very chic and fancy wooden boxes or plush bottle-jackets. It's something you could share together to toast your relationship, or save for another special occasion.

Ps. Don't forget to save the cork as a keepsake of this special day!

3. Love Letters: If you want to create a really personal gift to give to him, then why not make a special token of your love that can be kept forever. Simply find a jar (mason/jam etc...) make sure it is clean, and fill it with pieces of paper that say something special that you love about your man. They could be attributes he has, memories of amazing adventures you've had together, or photos with captions. You can keep adding to the jar so that it is jam-packed full of love letters for him to look at.

4. Clothing: If you have been together for a little while and you are confident you could shop for your man, then clothing is a great option as a gift - especially graphic print t shirts. You can make the choice really personal to his taste, and he'll be really impressed that you've listened to him talk about his favourite band/TV show/film.

5. Books: Again, this gift idea will depend on how long you two have been together and how well you know his tastes. Even if you aren't sure what to go for, you can go in to your local bookshop and ask the staff what their recommendations would be. Keep a look out for book-signing events that may be happening in your area from authors he may like, or go to antique book shops or fairs and look out for a really rare book he may enjoy looking at. Then sit back and watch him smell the musty, aged scent of the pages, or cheekily flip to the back to read the ending.

PS. You could also write a personal message of love in the front of the book to make it really sentimental.

6. A Watch: He may not be in to jewellery, but having a classic, timeless timepiece on his wrist could make him feel extra-chic and professional. Buying a watch for him doesn't necessarily have to be expensive. There are some great ones out there for really reasonable prices that will instantly add a little something extra to his office wear/everyday attire. He could even keep it as an accessory he brings out on special occasions when he wants to feel dapper.

Ps. Some shops will even have the option for you to get the watch engraved with a meaningful message.

7. Plan A Trip: It doesn't have to be anywhere fancy or overseas. It could be a night recreating where you first met, or had your first date, or knew you were in love. Or it could be simply sitting down together and planning a special trip for later in the year. Either way, it'll be an adventure you can go on together and create new, happy memories.

Let me know your plans/gift ideas for Valentine's Day this year in the comments.