I was flipping through my diary the other day. I jumped forward a few pages to realise that February was just a week away and, as happens every year, the walls suddenly melted a little as my pulse rate jumped and I came to that annual realization…

“What?! Valentine’s Day already?!?! I am still trying to get over Christmas, and not to mention my credit cards that are only just beginning to recover!”

Yes, another gift buying day was just around the corner. But I do enjoy the day. It’s just such a shame that the prelude to it is always filled with the stress of what to buy my partner.

But then I realised that I am part of the lucky 50%: a guy. Gift buying for us is pretty easy (jewelry, weekends away, etc.). And if we get stuck we just call our partner’s best friend for the answer.

But I think it’s definitely harder for the women out there. So, from a guys perspective, I want to share a few Valentine’s Day gift ideas that he’ll not only love but use on an almost daily basis. And best of all, with all of these gifts you will get to use and enjoy them too!

For The Wine Lover

How about: Wine glasses

Today wine is for everybody. People of all ages are learning to appreciate a good wine, not just for old guys with big noses and posh accents. Top wine glasses are very important to boost the experience of good wine, enhancing both the taste and smell of fine wines.

The most renown fine wine glasses are made by Riedel. Drawing on over 250 years experience, Riedel turned wine glass making into a science by recognising that the bouquet, taste, balance and finish of wines are affected by the shape of the glass from which they are drunk. As a result, Riedel developed a shape and style of glass to suit every variety of wine.

So if your guy really loves his big, strong red wines, have a look at the Riedel Sommeliers Bordeaux Grand Cru. Or if he prefers white varieties, try the Riedel Vinum Chardonnay.

For The Aspiring TV Chef

How about: Kitchen knives

So he considers himself a bit of a Jamie Oliver then? Or maybe the Iron Chef has inspired him to get into the kitchen? Cooking is definitely not just for the girls anymore, and more and more of us guys are really starting to get into it.

And as any top chef will tell you, the most important kitchen tool to have is a good set of knives. The best quality knives are made in Japan. Brands like Kasumi knives take skills and knowledge gained throughout centuries of samurai sword making and transfer these into their amazing knives.

They are not cheap, so maybe look at just getting him the one. If he’s just starting out in the kitchen, I would recommend an all-rounder such as the Kasumi Utility Knife. If he’s a bit more experienced, maybe look at something like the Kasumi Japanese Chef’s Knife.

Or if he’s already got kitchen knives, maybe try: Cookware

A good set of pots and pans is also essential for any budding Jamie Oliver. Most cookware has a pretty limited shelf life, but buying him a top-quality set will ensure that he will use and cherish it for years to come.

If he’s just starting out, I would recommend a non-stick variety, such as Anolon. Unlike many non-sticks, Anolon’s non-stick surface is very durable and will put up with a lot of punishment. Check out something like the Anolon Advanced.

Or if he’s a more experienced, consider a set of stainless steel cookware such as Essteele. Each piece is made of heavy gauge stainless steel, giving strength and an impressive shine. Have a look at the Essteele Australis range.

So I hope this article has given you some great gift ideas. Most importantly, I hope it has taken some of the stress out of Valentine’s Day so that you are able to enjoy the day.

Happy Valentine’s Day everyone!

I am off to call my girlfriend’s friend…