Avoiding Valentine's Day Clichés: What To Do and What Not To Do

Do:
Something personalized for your partner that shows them you really know them. For example: If they are really into a certain fandom maybe a necklace or a shirt that involves that given fandom. Tip: Check their Amazon wishlist.
Don’t:
Get them flowers or chocolates. Flowers die after a few weeks which can be very depressing, and chocolates run out. Unless you can get them an endless supply of chocolate do not bother.
Do:
Go for a big teddy bear. Although, it is cliché a teddy bear that is sprayed in your cologne or perfume can be an amazing thing for your partner to cuddle with when they’re missing you.
Don’t:
Get them a balloon. Just like the flowers they will end up dying. It is just awkward to keep them after they deflate, but sad to throw away.
Do:
Write them a poem, a song, or letter on how you feel about them. Or maybe draw, paint, or graphically make them a picture. Photo albums are another really personalized idea for those who are in a long term relationship… Or have taken a lot of couple selfies.
Don’t:
Get those heart shaped candies. For the same reason as the chocolate; it runs out. Not only that, but they are a bit elementary school. May as well give them one of those little Valentine’s cards that come in the pack with cartoon characters on them. Do not get them one of those cards.
Do:
Order them one of the school’s Val-o-grams. Although some may seem them as kind of pointless, it does make them feel special when they are just sitting there in class minding their own business, and they get a cute little note saying you love them in front of everyone.
Don’t:
Do anything that would make them uncomfortable. If your partner is shy try to keep it more personal and private. Even if they love attention, it’s supposed to be about the two of you. It doesn’t need to be a big public announcement.
Do:
Personalize a date just for the two of you. Whether it’s a picnic, (weather permitting), or dinner. Maybe something interactive like laser tag, bowling, or mini golf. Just do something you would both enjoy.
Don’t:
Ignore the holiday completely. Even if you and your partner have decided to ‘skip’ Valentine’s Day this year, you never actually skip it. Surprise them with a gift. It will show you really care. Even if it has to be homemade, so what? It will make them feel special.