For any couple, no matter how long they’ve been together, Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to celebrate your love. But for new couples, the holiday can mean extra pressure: you want to be romantic without overwhelming your other half with cheesy or over-the-top gestures, especially if you’re just getting to know each other and haven’t dropped the “L” bomb yet. That means you’re going to need a Valentine’s Day gift that’s cute, but also inexpensive and not too sentimental. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the best first Valentine’s Day gifts that will take the pressure off if you’re new in a relationship.
Of course, flowers and chocolates are always popular, but we guarantee you can find something even more unique that is sure to impress. To find the perfect affordable Valentine’s Day gift, think about what brought you two together or what you enjoy doing as a couple. Maybe your new boyfriend or girlfriend likes to cook? Try a do-it-yourself truffle kit. Still getting to know each other? A series of conversation starters can help! Just bonded, but still living apart? A pair of bracelets that light up for your partner when you press yours is perfect.
And if you’re not ready to say “I love you” yet, don’t worry, we have plenty of gifts that say “I love you really, really well.” Don’t forget to check out our list of the best last-minute Valentine’s Day gifts, in case the holiday completely slipped your mind this year.
1. 100 Date Scratch-Off Poster
You’ll never fall into a rut with this scratch-off poster! It’s filled with dozens of fun date ideas, from visiting a farmer’s market to taking a bike ride.
Buy: 100 Date Scratch-Off Poster
2. Capsule letters
Inside each of these pills is a blank piece of paper - write a sweet, thoughtful note on each one, so they can remember how much we love them every time they open one. So much better than a text message, right? !
Buy: Capsule letters
3. “You’re the best thing I've found on the internet,” mug
With more and more people meeting on dating apps these days, this mug is both funny and cute. “I gave this mug to my man, and he laughed and loved it,” said an Amazon reviewer.
Buy: “You’re the best thing I've found on the internet,” mug
4. Hand-Casting Kit
Solidify your relationship with this DIY hand molding kit that allows you to make a work of the art of your relationship. It’s both a gift and a fun activity for your party!
Buy: Hand-Casting Kit
5. 101 conversation starters for couples
With this deck of cards, you’ll never be at a loss for conversation. Written by the author of The 5 Love Languages, it will give new couples the chance to learn even more about each other.
Buy: 101 conversation starters for couples
6. Ticket Stub Diary
Keep memories of every concert you attend together with this ticket stub journal. It’s a great way to preserve your memories of concerts, sporting events, museum visits and more.
Buy: Ticket Stub Diary
7. Mini Waffle Maker
Score points by making them a breakfast for Valentine’s Day. Good Housekeeping Institute testers found that this nonstick heart-shaped appliance made 4-inch waffles that were always fluffy and crisp.
Buy: Mini Waffle Maker
8. Bright Rose
Everyone knows roses are synonymous with love, and this beautiful LED glowing rose will never die. “My girlfriend loves this product,” said one Amazon reviewer.
Buy: Bright Rose
9. Spark Romance: 50 ways to deepen your connection
Suitable for couples at any stage of their relationship. We can enjoy the conversation starters and date night ideas in this gift for years to come.
Buy: Spark Romance: 50 ways to deepen your connection
10. Wireless Charging Station
If their devices are always on the fritz, this wireless charging station is a gift they’ll definitely appreciate. It will keep everything charged and organized on their nightstand.
Buy: Wireless Charging Station
11. The ultimate game for couples
Game night will be a hit with this one-on-one or couples-only game (and it can be played long after Valentine’s Day is over!)
Buy: The ultimate game for couples
