Candy hearts, Cupid, cheesy greeting cards—what is it
about some Valentine’s Day traditions that are so, well,
lame? Perhaps it’s because all the old standbys have
become dull and predictable, taking the spark out of
what should be a romantic and passionate day. But it
doesn’t have to be that way. We’ve come up with some
novel gift ideas that, with a little creativity, can help you
reclaim Valentine’s Day to its rightful place:
Original artwork—It says a lot more about your taste if
you can find a work of art that speaks to her heart more
than a big rock.
Hammock—Once the exclusive domain of lazy, middle
aged, suburban men, hammocks have come a long way.
Indeed, an ornate two-person model can be downright
romantic.
Eye pillow package—If she spends a significant
amount of time gazing at you, her eyes need a rest. The
eye pillow package is a unique and surprising sensual
indulgence.
Telescope—Whereas most of the "Name a Star for
Someone you Love" services are money-sucking
rackets of questionable legality, with a telescope you
can explore the heavens together.
Write a poem/song—So long as you avoid using
words like "Roses are red" or "Nantucket," a heartfelt
expression of sentiment always goes over well. Throw in
a few rudimentary chords on an acoustic guitar and
you’ve become Dr. Romance.
Pet—Anytime you bring another life into a relationship,
you incur the risks of stepped-up commitment. But if
that’s the goal, you can do worse than a cute, cuddly,
panting/purring mass of fur.
Beanbag chair—A heart-shaped model makes for a
funky yet romantic V-Day gift.
Body painting kit—Remember how much fun
finger-painting was back in elementary school? To think
back then you were only using glossy paper. Think of
the possibilities of painting on a human canvas!
Polaroid camera—Instant gratification and not having
to deal with that pimply drug store photo clerk are just
two of the advantages of the Polaroid. The more
intangible advantages are left to you to imagine.
Book of erotica and feather tickler—There’s a fine
line between sleaze and sensuality, but if you stay on
the right side of it, you, my friend, can be a very lucky
man.
—Prateek Sarkar
