February 14th will be here before you know it, are you ready? Considered the pinnacle of romantic days, Valentine’s Day evokes images of love and companionship, and the opportunity to spend some intimate time with your sweetheart. For lesbian couples seeking to commemorate the day – whether you are newly dating or have enjoyed many past holidays together – this time offers a myriad of options to please your partner.

Looking for gift ideas for your lesbian love this Valentine’s? If you are thinking past the cliched (yet not always unappreciated) heart-shaped box of chocolates and red, stuffed teddy bears, why not try something unusual and sentimental, something unexpected that will certainly garner memories of a day well celebrated. Here are just a few suggestions, or you may be inspired from these to try something unique.

Count the Years, Starting Now. The chocolate industry isn’t the only one that benefits from spiked sales in February. It’s not uncommon to see jewelers grab more air time on television in this time, either. If you think your lesbian partner might love a necklace or bracelet but you worry about cost, consider an inexpensive (but hypoallergenic) chain fit to hold charms. Select one charm to best define your relationship – a symbol with significance for both of you – and present it to her. Going forward, you have a gift that grows as you can add more charms to mark important moments in your life together.

Pamper Her. Everybody loves having a day off, and this year you can truly make your loved one’s Valentine’s Day special by treating her like a queen. Have dinner catered from a fine restaurant, share a favorite champagne, and later help her relax with a soothing spa bath and massage. The intimacy shared in these moments is far more appreciated than a box of candy.

Fulfill a Wish. Talk to friends and family… is there one thing your partner always wanted but never got for Christmas? Did she have a favorite book or toy as a child that she still fondly remembers? Thanks to sites like eBay and Craigslist, you may be able to track down a vintage toy, doll, or board game that brings back great memories.

Above all else, Valentine’s Day doesn’t necessarily have to be about who gives the best present, but how your appreciation and love for each other is expressed. Lesbian couples spending this holiday together can learn from each other to gauge the best way to celebrate.