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Ah, the romantic gesture. The more one party in a relationship desires it, the less the other party seems to understand what it means. People tend to overthink what romance really is. Perhaps they think big, elaborate overtures much like what you might see on an episode of The Bachelor, like a sunset helicopter ride or champagne for two in a highly improbable desert hot tub oasis. But it's so much simpler (and better) than all that.
It really boils down to two things: being thoughtful and being proactive. And what's more thoughtful than a little gift to say "I love you?" You don't have to wait for a special occasion to express your adoration (that's the "proactive" part.) If you're in need of some inspiration, read on.
First Date Star Map
Commemorate your first date, first kiss, the first time you said "I love you", or any other special moment or anniversary with a beautiful map of what the night sky looked like that night. I particularly love this as a moving in together gift - it could be the first piece of decor in your new place!
Mejuri Organic Pearl Hoops
Call me old fashioned, but there is something extremely perfect about surprising your love with jewelry. Mejuri's offerings are high-quality, ethically-sourced, and affordable so you, too, can gift your girl a little bauble without breaking the bank. I personally own these organic pearl hoops (a present from my own sweetie, naturally), and they always draw compliments.
Mommesilk Beauty Set
Silk pillowcases and scrunchies have been shown to reduce nighttime hair breakage and help keep skin clear, so this gift set is beauty sleep in a box! Made from 100% mulberry silk, the set includes a pillowcase, eye mask, classic scrunchie, and skinny scrunchie - perfect for pampering your lovely lady.
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The Bouqs Flower Subscription
The Bouqs subscription bouquet delivery takes the guesswork out of saying it with flowers - have them delivered monthly so that you're never rushing to grab a bouquet at the last minute! Each arrangement is sourced directly from eco-friendly farms that incorporate sustainable growing practices like recycling water and reducing waste.
Maude Soy Massage Oil Candle No. 1
This gift is a two-in-one: a lovely scented candle that creates a warmed massage oil as it burns. Light the flame in her heart and treat her to a relaxing rubdown. Choose from three sophisticated fragrances or try unscented for those with sensitive skin.
Pasta Maker
This pasta maker is for you to use. Believe me when I say that serving up fresh, homemade pasta will catch your sweetheart's attention in all the best ways, and it's as easy to make as it is impressive to serve! You can even make one long noodle to recreate that scene from Lady and the Tramp. That's amore!
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Personalized Reel Viewer
Those viewfinder toys from childhood are back, and now you can personalize them with all of your favorite memories! Available in four colors, this gift is sure to delight anyone with an appreciation for nostalgia. Gift it to remember a trip you took together or remind them of your favorite date nights.
Custom Pet Portrait
Did your wedding vows include promises to the bride's dog or cat as well as the bride? Married or not, if she adores her pet nearly as much as you adore her, a custom portrait will be just the thing to make her swoon.
Lord Jones CBD Bath Salts
Small gestures can be the most romantic. Draw her a bath to soothe her aching muscles, and make it a full spa experience with these luxe Lord Jones bath salts. They're formulated from epsom and Himalayan pink salt, botanicals like arnica and calendula, and contain 20 mg of CBD per heaping scoop.
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Lavender Warming Booties
Want to do something really thoughtful? Gift her some serious coziness. For those with chronically icy feet, these fluffy booties come in two colors and feature aromatherapy insoles that you can remove and briefly microwave for added warmth!
The Cleaning Army Handbook
No shade, but statistically speaking, there is still a substantial gender divide when it comes to housework. If you feel that you could step it up a bit where chores are concerned, make sure you're doing it right by referencing The Cleaning Army Handbook, a 10-page epub that will walk you through how to clean anything around the house. Acts of service: another love language!
Love Poems by Pablo Neruda
Do you have a hard time expressing yourself with words? Let acclaimed poet Pablo Neruda help you. Buy this book, highlight passages that make you think of your sweetie, then give it to her to thumb through, and watch her melt. "I want to do with you what Spring does with the cherry trees." I mean, come on.
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Godiva Signature Chocolate Truffles Gift Box
In addition to flowers and jewelry, a box of decadent truffles completes the trifecta of classic romantic gifts. Godiva has been a luxury chocolatier for going on a full century, and it's become pretty synonymous with delectably sweet gifts (pun intended). This gift box of two dozen classic favorites is sure to wow and delight.
The New York Times 36 Hours: 150 Weekends in the USA & Canada
Of course, if you really want to sweep her off her feet, nothing beats a romantic weekend getaway. Give this book as a gift, have her pick a destination, then pack your bags! Romantic memories yet to be made await you at your destination.
