Whether Americans like to admit it or not, we all have a bit of the hopeless romantic in our hearts. With love in the air, Americans find it irresistible to flaunt their affection. Jim Trippon, CPA and one of America’s foremost authorities on the money habits of self-made millionaires, has released his ultimate Valentine’s Day gift list to astonish your significant other this holiday season.
According to the National Retail Federation, Americans are expected to spend an astounding $14.1 billion this Valentine’s Day. This year retailers are not only focused on gifts for the loving couples but also gifts for our co-workers, friends and even our furry little companions. That’s right Americans are likely to spend 50% more this year on their pets compared to last year.
Overall, consumers are focusing more on quality than quantity. The average American is looking for small thoughtful gifts, but for those of you who are looking to go above and beyond Jim Trippon has created an unbelievable list.
“Each year it seems that Americans top themselves in spending for Valentine’s Day”, says Trippon, “I think people should focus less on how much they are spending and more on the quality of the gift. Find something to enjoy together!”
Here is Trippon’s Ultimate Valentine’s Day gift list for 2010:
#1 Casa Rancho Mirage – $16,700,000
Casa Rancho Mirage features approximately 18,000 square feet, 7 bedrooms, 8 baths, 2 powder rooms, an expansive foyer with twin circular marble staircases and an overhead bridge, 24 foot coffered ceilings, tall arched windows, a great room large enough to host a party with several hundred guests, and a 2 bedroom guest house with living room, and full kitchen.
#2 Island in Angra – $5,800,000
A spectacular island on the coast of Rio de Janeiro, surrounded with untouched Atlantic forests and just 80 metres from trendy Gipoia Island. The mainland lies 2.3km away, giving the island a sense of seclusion while remaining conveniently close to local nightlife, restaurants and shopping.
#3 Tiffany Legacy Ring – $710,000
Tiffany Legacy® designs feature cushion-shaped modified brilliant diamonds that are exclusive to Tiffany. Ring in platinum with Tiffany Legacy® and round brilliant diamonds. Cushion-shaped modified brilliant diamond, carat total weight 6.24, color grade D, clarity grade VS1; round brilliant diamonds, carat total weight 1.32.
#4 Jean Schlumberger Diamond jardinet bracelet – $320,000
Schlumberger gathers a grand variety of flowers in this beautiful diamond bracelet. Bracelet of round brilliant diamonds in platinum with 18k gold.
#5 Clive Christian Imperial Majesty Perfume – $251,000
No1 Pure Perfume in a hand crafted Baccarat crystal bottle with solid gold neck and 5 carat diamond, individually delivered by Rolls Royce. Baccarat crystal container equally magnificent having a five-carat diamond on its 18-carat gold collar. Three out of the five bottles of this limited edition perfume consisting of ingredients like vanilla, ylang ylang and sandalwood were sold at its unveiling ceremonies at Harrods in London and Bergdorf Goodman in New York City.
#6 Diamond Cut Mother of Pearl Gemstone Globe – $200,000
The Diamond Cut 40″ Mother of Pearl gemstone globe is the most exquisite amongst our gemstone floor globes. The ocean is handcrafted in mother-of-pearl with each piece cut in triangle or diamond to give this globe its marvelous appeal. As always each gemstone globe is unique because it is handcrafted and semi-precious gemstones are different in each globe.
#7 Fendi Selleria Bag – $38,000 [http://tinyurl.com/yj6a4po]
Fendi’s Selleria bag combines the classic good looks and clever styling that the Italian fashion house is famous for. Is it any wonder than modern style icons Beyonce and Victoria Beckham love them?
#8 Stuart Hughes iPhone 3GS – 22ct Solid Gold and Diamond – $37,915
It took four proficient craftsmen including Stuart Hughes months of detailed intricate work to re-create the original body of the iphone in solid gold all of which was started and finished by hand with 53 VVS1 diamonds housed in the 22ct Apple logo. The result was outstanding even down to the precise polishing to reveal its most beautiful harmonious appearance. Also included is a luxurious hand finished wallet made from real Ostrich foot. Aswell as the wallets slim and unique design it also offers functionality in holding up to 4 credit cards.
#9 Harry Winston Three Row Diamond Cufflinks – $33,000
36 Lozenge-cut diamonds, approximately 3.00 total carats; 18k white gold setting. Length 15.45mm and width 19.61mm. Harry Winston Men, by Thom Browne.
#10 Diamond and Gold Heart Paw Dog Tag – $2650
Handcrafted with 14K gold and diamonds, his piece is a must have for all deserving dogs. Your dog will certainly be glad to fetch anything you want when they are wearing this bling. And be sure to pick up the matching heart paw necklace for yourself.
Trippon believes that people stay in love when they take the time to become educated about money together.
“Get real and deal with your budget”, says Trippon, “Be honest with each other about your money habits and come up with a plan to spend it as a couple. It will improve your love life!” Trippon is the author of the Amazon best-seller, How Millionaires Stay Rich Forever: Retirement Planning Secrets of Millionaires and How They Can Work For You.