This is not a drill! 60 Valentine's day gifts for every budget and taste
You may run out of excuses for forgetting to buy them — but not out of ideas
Valentine’s day gifts are a rite of passage that all couples are put through (just like the uncomfortable conversations that come up when a couple decides to get married). New couples wonder if they’re “supposed” to give their newly minted love a token of their affection, and long-term couples, who likely may never have exchanged presents can attest to the fact that they’ve been disappointed at lack of giftage at least once in their tenure — or have picked a fight with their unassuming spouse over it. The unassuming spouse wonders “Did I miss an anniversary? But we got married in December” – until they’re smacked with a sulky face and a passive aggressive, “But it’s Valentine’s day.”
No matter what side of the argument you fall on — that it’s a marketing-inspired holiday, or that it is yet another occasion to celebrate your love — we’ve put together a Valentine’s day gift guide that includes options for every kind of partner, and budget.
And since we’re strong believers of self-love, scroll through and pick your favourites to indulge the one person you should love above all else — you.
60 Valentine’s day gift ideas to impress any kind of partner
1. Bond Touch Bracelets
Long distance sucks, we know. A pair of these Bond Touch bracelets will make it a little easier to feel closer to your partner. Quite literally. Connected by bluetooth and an app, when the two are synced, they will feel you touching your bracelet as vibrations on theirs. A sweet and savvy way of letting them know thinking about them and missing them, wherever they may be. ₹16,563 with express shipping
2. Slow Pottery tool kit
*Cue Unchained Melody* Order a pottery tool kit from Slow Pottery and recreate the infamous Demi Moore and Patrick Swayze scene from Ghost in the comfort of your home. If you want to keep things more PG-13 and learn a thing or two then you can also sign up for the online classes and get your hands dirty creating your own little sculptures. ₹600
3. His and hers monogram pyjamas
If your idea of a great couple’s activity is running Netflix marathons while you cuddle under your favourite throw, you might as well look the part. Made in soft pinstriped cotton, these are also perfect for that staycation you planned on your next anniversary. ₹1,800
4. Water-proof Bluetooth speaker
This one is for the partners who turn every shower into a disco party. This JBL speaker is a waterproof bluetooth speaker you can hook up to their phone and jam out to that guilty pleasure playlist we all secretly have but don’t share with anyone else. Though we advise caution, especially if your partner is among those who make the pot their throne and binge watch episodes in the loo. They may never come out. ₹5,499
5. 3D printed moon lamp
For the one you love to the moon and a back. A 3D printed moon lamp will make a great accent to their bedside table with a warm light as you video chat into the wee hours of the morning. There are three colour settings to suit whichever mood they’re in. ₹1,999
6. Love Games
A fun card game to help you and your partner brush up on your communication skills. It’s got 55 talk cards, 55 flirt cards and 55 dare cards – all romantically inclined with conversation starters, which could lead to something a lot more steamy. This is definitely not one for family game nights. ₹499
7. Royal portraits of your furry children
If your pets are your furry children then you and your partner will fall in love with these hilarious, and very artistic Elizabethan-style royal canvas portraits. Pick and choose what style of costume you want and Zulu Pets will transform a picture of your four-legged baby into a regal canvas portrait. The new star attraction of your living room wall decor. ₹1,999 – ₹2,999 depending on size
8. Chakra Pro Yoga Mat
For the environmentally conscious yoga guru in your life who are desperate to balance all their chakras. They’re made of sustainable cork and are rubberised to prevent slipping and sliding when they’re trying to downward dog in peace. Cork is also anti-microbial so they won’t have to work about germs or bacteria collecting on the mat after a long hot yoga session. ₹4,900
9. Create a signature scent
There are two ways you can go about this one. You can handcraft the perfect scent for your partner – right from the undertones and accents to the bottle design. Or make one that’s closest to your signature scent which they can spritz whenever they’re missing you. Waft’s customisation process is very detailed. You suggest reference scents of perfumes you already love, add elements and aromas you’re drawn to – warm, floral or musk – and their professional perfumer will do their magic. ₹4,500 – ₹7,250 depending on size
10. Van Gogh colouring book
This is the ideal valentine’s day gift for an art lover who, no matter how hard they try, have the drawing and painting skills of a drunk baby. They can just fill in the lines of Maestro Gogh’s most famous pieces instead. They have 30 of his greatest works straight from Amsterdam’s famous Van Gogh Museum. ₹365
11. Joy Gold candles
Set the mood for the perfect date night at home with these mogra-scented candles from our Tweak X The Faraway Tree collaboration. Even if you can’t bear to light them (join the middle class desi club), the elegant design makes for the perfect centrepiece with your wine and fondue pot. ₹850
12. Fondue pot
When in doubt, throw in some cheese in the mix to make everything better, and this fondue put will let you do exactly that, but in style.₹650
13. Microwavable lavender-scented slippers
If a cosy night in is your partner’s idea of fun then these microwavable slippers are sure to get you the “Best Gift Giver” crown. Toss these furry slippers into the microwave, whip up some hot chocolate topped with extra marshmallows, scroll through your watchlist and find your partner’s all-time favourite rom-com, and you have yourself the cosiest and most comfortable date night your partner could’ve asked for. ₹6,879
14. Personalised night cream
If your partner is the overachiever who manages to ace at work, is the best friend of the year, and still manages to shower you with all the attention in the world, then gifting them something that helps them take care of the one person they seem to overlook – themselves – is what you need to do. This customised cream by Forest Essentials is the perfect night-time routine for your overworked partner who doesn’t have the time for a 10-step Korean beauty routine. The cream will be tailor-made for your partner’s skincare concerns, and will be formulated post a consultation with an Ayurveda expert. ₹2000 for the consultation
15. Low maintenance plants
This present is for all the sly Sonus looking to gauge if their partner is in fact ready to be a parent (to a cat, dog, or a human being). Get them these low maintenance plant babies (set of three – rubber plant, money plant, and syngonium variegated), and watch how they go about nursing them, if they turn out to be plant murderers it might be best to wait, if not then, it might be time to have the talk. ₹912
16. Sheet masks
The pandemic might come in the way of your annual Valentine’s day spa date, but that doesn’t mean you can’t bring the spa home. The Face Shop Serial Chiller Pack includes seven sheet masks that’ll have your partner glowing and beaming with joy, all at once. ₹700
17. “I woof you” mug
If a wagging tail, a wet nose, and squishy paw beans are the way to your partner’s heart, then this mug is going to make them very very happy. You ca even personalise it to make this paw-some gift all the more special. ₹1,099
18. Diffuser lamp with speakers
Romance may have taken a hit in 2020, but 2021 is set to bring sexy back, if this unique diffuser has anything to say about it. Load up a few drops of ylang ylang, known for its aphrodisiac qualities, turn on the soft glow and connect the speakers to your phone via Bluetooth. ₹7,620
19. Minimalist love art
If your partner’s response to you professing your love to them is a humble “thank you,” and if no PDA tops their list of relationship terms and conditions then we feel you, and we are here to rescue you from the dilemma that is buying a Valentine’s day present for your unexpressive significant other. Get some minimalist love art for minimal affection giver ₹1203.60
20. A popcorn kit
If your partner’s movie going experience is more dependant on the caramel to cheese to butter ratio than how the actual film turns out to be then you can’t go wrong with the popcorn fiends dream come true that is this ultimate popcorn kit. The kit includes popcorn kernels, a seasoning kit, a popcorn machine, and popcorn bags. ₹4,800
21. Name a star for your partner
Red Hot Chili Peppers sang, “Buy me a star on a boulevard, it’s Californication”. Get inspired by them, name a star for your partner, because nothing spells out more clearly that they are the centre of your universe. ₹1,949
22. Dear Scott, Dearest Zelda: The love letters of F Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald
People who crunch numbers for a living may not necessarily find their words flowing like when they try to express their love in words. As a result, their love-letter writing skills isn’t something their partners can write home about. If your SO is one of them, let them borrow inspiration from the best – The Fitzgeralds in love, and more so, despair. This collection of letters exchanged between literature’s power couple Zelda Fitzgerald and F. Scott Fitzgerald may help you two write your own Great Gatsby. ₹1,462
23. A portable wine table
In the middle of nowhere, under the clear blue sky, or on your porch, now you can host a wine soirée for two absolutely anywhere with this spill-proof wine-party kit. ₹4,242
24. Ice cubes that don’t melt
We all hate it when the ice cube melts and dilutes our every round of whiskey. Put an end to those miseries with these cooling stones which will let you get lost in conversations and pick up your heady cocktail just where you left it. ₹1,399
25. A gaming mousepad
If you’ve been with him long enough, you know it’s a terrible idea to come between the boy and his gameboy. What’s worse? Supporting him on a multiplayer mission and help him win, not. To show that you aren’t insecure of his obsession with video games, add a layer of comfort to the experience with this humongous gaming mousepad. ₹699
26. A scratch-off movie poster
Put an end to movie-night decision-making duties with this scratch off poster that is loaded with 600 movie recommendations from every genre. ₹3,746
27. Host the perfect party for two
Whether you want to slow-dance to Versace On The Floor, or belt out for-your-partner’s-ears-only covers on karaoke, this speaker kit is the only party-starter both of you need. ₹2,499
28. A matchbox to fire up your relationship
Blame it on the pandemic, if you’re running out of new things to do with limited resources at disposal. This matchbox is loaded with prompts for date ideas, conversation starters, and activities to initiate intimacy. We encourage you to add a note along, “Come on baby, light my fire” ₹1,131
29. Jenga with a twist
Their dexterous block distribution skills are beyond compare, and you’re secretly tired of watching them win at a game of Jenga for years now. Add a layer of Truth, Dare and Situation to the mix, and watch them get their knickers in a twist. *wink, wink* ₹799
30. A cook book for two
Most of you, we assume, still prefer to stay in, and aren’t painting the town red already. With Date Night In: More than 120 Recipes to Nourish Your Relationship, a cookbook made with love, your table-for-two will never run out of roasts, delectable desserts, sparkling wine and a new memory to cook. Bon appétit! ₹2,224
31. Massage gun
There’s absolutely nothing like having someone massage the knots out of your sore body, but finding a willing contender is harder than finding the right partner. This cordless, rechargeable massage gun is perfect for sore and stiff muscles — so invest in one for your partner, and shoot your shot and ask them to use it on you as thanks. ₹5,290
32. Portable instant mobile photo printer
Some like it hot, some like it cheesy and if your partner is the latter, they will love the Fujifilm Instax Mini Link Smartphone Printer that allows you to easily edit and print photos right from your smartphone. Say cheese! ₹8,827
33. Star map
An out of this world idea which ensures you’ll never forget an important anniversary or that place you first met. It maps out the position of the stars, planets, moon and sun, as seen from a specific place on earth to commemorate a special day — the Sytara maps also come beautifully framed, and with a certificate of authenticity. ₹3,000
34. Blanket sweatshirt
The next best thing to getting an in person hug from you — a wearable blanket sweatshirt made from flannel and Sherpa fabric, that they can snuggle into when they’re feeling lonely. PS: It’s machine washable in case you’re worried about your wife’s klutzy tendencies. ₹1,599
35. Love in Pyjamas by Catana Chetwynd
If you hadn’t reached the ‘comfy in pjs’ stage of your relationship pre lockdown, we’re certain you have now — and this collection of comics from one of our favourite illustrators captures those tiny moments of ‘being yourself together’. PS: Her previous collections include Little Moments of Love and Snug. Add all 3 to cart to make it extra special. ₹1,267
36. Sugar & Creamer Pots
Whether you’re moving in together or want to suggest it to your caffeine-fiend partner, the handmade Dawa Sugar & Creamer pots with a matte brass finish are the perfect little gift to get things cooking. ₹3,800
37. Silk pillowcase and eye mask
Valentine’s day is for indulgences. You know that super expensive, super slinky silk pillowcase your partner’s been eyeing but refuses to buy because ‘do I really need it? ‘is it worth it’ – go the extra mile, and splurge on a pillow case, and eye mask combo. We love the lush mocha gold versions. Pillow case, ₹4,439; Eye mask, ₹1,999
38. Burlap duffel bag
Perfect for eco-warriors, this jute gunny bag is 100% biodegradable, recyclable and the greener choice for a cleaner world. We love the versatile leaf-patterned duffel from The Burlap People, which is easy to carry and the perfect size for a weekend getaway. ₹6,300
39. Personalised wine glasses and wine decanter
There are two kinds of people in this world. People who get acid reflux at the thought of their wine hangovers, and those who can’t consume any other beverage. For the latter, we recommend personalised wine glasses, and a fancy ‘decanter’ for when they’re making sangria. Wine glasses, ₹1,299 (set of two); Decanter: ₹1,850
40. Chocolate fondue kit: The customisable hamper from Blue Ribbon Gifting from Food Hall includes Xoco 57 Chocolate Fondue, strawberries, green apples, sponge cake and even a fondue pot, to make the sweet occasion even sweeter. ₹2,500
41. World map metallic wall decor
If the pandemic ruined your travel plans this year, get this beautiful world map home accessory and enjoy V-day reminiscing old memories from trips you took together. The piece allows you to put up photographs with magnets on different countries. ₹3,695
42. His and her bathroom cabinets
Wondering where your expensive face mask and booty scrub disappeared? Get your partner his own bathroom cabinet so that you don’t magically run out of shampoo again in the shower. The white colour helps it blend with any aesthetic and is also fun to DIY together. Add stick-on his and her labels or jazz it up with a fun wallpaper. ₹2990 (for one)
43. Cosy armchair
Nor a sofa neither a chair, this comfy lounge chair is perfect to snuggle and watch your favourite movie. It comes with a low back rest that is cosy but with enough space for two. You can get it on EMI as well. ₹21,499
44. Adult puzzle
Don’t want to spend the day doing the same old things? Ditch the usual candle light dinner for an hour or more of mind-tickling puzzles .This is a 1000 piece puzzle of the streets of Cuba, inspired by an illustration of American designer and illustrator, Micheal Storrings, which can be framed and hung up as a testimony of your labour of love. ₹1, 182
45. Glamping trip
If you’re someone that enjoys truffle spaghetti but he prefers mushroom soup in a plastic cup over a bonfire, find a middle ground and go glamping. Moonstone hammock has two — Karjat and Pawna. With live bands and movies under the stars, the campsite has spacious tents for two with a bunch of other activities you can indulge in. Starts from ₹2,614
46.Wireless headphones
Your partner likes the constant ‘dhichik dhichik’ of blaring EDM music while you need some peace of mind on the regular Zoom calls. The boAt wireless headphones are just what you need. With a long battery life and great sound quality you can work in peace. ₹1,999
47. Lip mask & Lip scrub duo
A berry lip mask for smooth hydrated lips. It has kojic acid that helps reduce pigmentation.The plum flavoured lip scrub gets rid of dead skin and will leave your lips feeling soft and supple with a slight tint of red.₹1,850
48. Insulated coffee mug
If you want to save your partner the trouble of constantly getting up between work to get a hot cup of tea/coffee. This is an insulated travel mug that keeps drinks hot for 4-5 hours and cold upto 10 hours.₹1,154
49. Book a couples massage
After the dozen dishes scrubbed and intense Sunday cleaning sessions, you need some time off. You might not be able to unwind at a serene spa in the Himalayas but you can definitely take a few hours off for a massage. Trained therapists that will come with all the equipment. Separate for men and women. Starts at ₹999
50. Coffee bathing bars
If a mug of coffee is all you need to turn your partner’s grumpy morning frown upside-down then this gift is perfect for them. This set of three coffee bean bathing bars will be the perfect wake-me-ups for them. Also, to help your coffee loving lover mix things up, the hamper includes three kinds of bathing bars – Energetic Espresso, Sweet Cappuccino, and Creamy Latte – all of which are used making pure arabica coffee. ₹875
51. Reversible octopus mood plush toy
Silent treatment is particularly irritating to deal with because you don’t know what’s going on in your partner’s head. Do they want you to try making up with them? Or will they prefer being left alone for two hours and then tempted to talk with a hot bowl of Maggi? If this sounds like a daily occurrence in your home then this adorable octopus mood plush is the perfect valentine’s gift for your partner. They can flip the plushie inside out to make known their mood. Whether they’re a smiley octopus or a grumpy puss. ₹375
52. Botanical cocktail kit
Flowers are too mainstream, throw in some booze in the mix. If your partner prefers stemmed glasses topped with some bubbly over stems of roses then this botanical cocktail kit is what you need. This kit comes with a shaker, a peg measurer and vibrant herbs and flowers to help add a splash of colour to your Valentine’s day brunch. It also includes a recipe card with detailed instructions on how to brew and blend the flavours.₹999
53. De-stress therapy
For the anxiety-riddled pigeons who find themselves tossing and turning in bed, Forest Essentials have bottled lullabies in a bottle. Geranium, lavender, nutmeg and sandalwood will help you drift off to sleep with just a few spritzs on your silk pillowcase. ₹1,750
54. Portable water filter
For the partner who wakes up on Sunday morning to attend beach clean-ups and would rather faint from thirst than buy a single-use plastic bottle. Encourage your Earth warrior to stay hydrated with this high-tech water bottle that cleans up bacteria (E.Coli) and microplastics, while filtering out bad taste and odour. ₹2,199
55. Kitchen knife set
Help your home chef make the leap to MasterChef with this kitchen knife set from Tramontina, the Brazilian brand beloved by many professional kitchens. Nothing says “I trust you with my life” quite like presenting your significant other with the sharpest objects you can find. ₹2,999
56. Learn music from Amit Trivedi
Amit Trivedi starts with the fundamentals of music composition and moves on to advanced techniques through the course. With multiple lessons and lifetime access, it’s a great push for a partner who’s been wanting to learn. They also have a community platform where you can connect with fellow enthusiasts. ₹799
57. French press coffee maker
Is your significant other cheating on you with Starbucks? Here’s one way to win back their favour, while letting them indulge in their favourite activity. ₹1,899
58. Kindle
The only thing longer than a traffic jam in rush hour is the list of books your partner keeps adding to their must-read list. This 10th generation model is waterproof, so you don’t have to worry it getting destroyed when their inevitable multitasking results in a cup of coffee getting knocked over. ₹12,999
59. Pleasure kit
For the couple who’s been trying to spice up their sex lives, this kit from Besharam ensures no one gets left behind. ₹2,999
60. Personalised chocolate bar
Every Indian kid’s first introduction to a lifetime love of chocolate has been the classic Dairy Milk. Elevate that experience with a personalised chocolate bar that will leave your significant other feeling like a celebrity. Just make sure the photo you use is pre-approved. ₹400