“What did you do for Valentine’s Day, Sandy”, asked Heidi.

“Oh, nothing much,” sighed Sandy. “Dave brought home some flowers and take-out and we watched some movies at home.”

“Well, that sounds like fun I guess,” said Heidi. “At least he remembered to recognize Valentines Day. My husband forgot and at the last minute ran to the store and bought a box of heart shaped candy.”

“Still, that’s kind of thoughtful,” Sandy surmised. “Who doesn’t like chocolate?”

“People who are allergic to chocolate!” exclaimed Heidi.

A lot of people out there view Valentine’s Day simply as a made-up occasion sponsored by the greeting card companies. Regardless, it is one day where your special someone would like to be recognized as being someone that you really care about. If you ignore the “holiday,” you are going to have a problem.

Buying the right gift is the big dilemma. Much like a birthday or anniversary, you want to provide something that has meaning. It doesn’t have to cost a lot of money — in fact, some of the best gifts out there are available for under $100.

The big mistake that you can make is just randomly selecting something that someone else deems a “romantic gift.” An elegant piece of gold jewelry is romantic – unless the receiver of the gift doesn’t wear any gold and prefers silver. A weekend away at a ski lodge is romantic – unless the recipient despises the cold and prefers warmer surroundings.

The key is to listen. Are there any gift items that they have mentioned? Are there any activities that they have wanted to do with you? Have they used the phrase “I wish you were more romantic?” Has your special someone ever mentioned something romantic that one of your friends did for their spouse?

For me, I really enjoy it when my wife gives me a thoughtful gift that comes with a card that expresses her feelings. All of us have busy lives and very few of us take the time to tell our significant other how we feel about them. This applies to men and women alike. Even the most macho guy wants to know that he is important in the eyes of his lover.

This year, take the time to find just the right gift. Investing in a thoughtful, creative and romantic gift will be remembered forever.