27 Thoughtful (But Not Over the Top!) First Valentine's Day Gift Ideas
Whether you've been dating for weeks or months, these editor-loved gifts are sooo swoon-worthy.
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As exciting as it is to spend a first Valentine's Day with a new partner, it can also be incredibly nerve-wracking—especially if you've only been seeing each other for a few weeks. But there's no need to panic just yet. Put those drugstore chocolates back on the shelf, people! As a shopping editor who has spent years curating gift guides for every holiday imaginable, I have V-Day gifting down to a science, and I'm here to help you find the perfect present for your boo.
The secret to a thoughtful (but not over-the-top) first Valentine's Day gift? Pay attention to ~the little things~. Are they always complaining about being cold? Go with a cute beanie or cozy throw blanket. Do they have a hobby they're really passionate about, like cooking or marathon training? Treat 'em to a fun cookbook or handy running belt. This way, no matter your budget, you'll be able to choose a gift that shows you truly care about their needs and interests—which, TBH, is the best gift of all.
Jewelry gifts are a V-Day classic for a reason, and this glittering initial pendant is so cutie. (If you're feeling extra romantic, give them your initial à la Troy in High School Musical.) Our editors also love the brand for its tarnish-resistance—meaning your gift will still sparkle for years to come.
Is your partner perpetually cold? Then this heated throw blanket is a cozy gift they'll put to use right away. It features five different heat levels to keep them cozy, has soft-to-the-touch faux fur fabric, and it's even machine-washable—check, check, and check.
Since it's literally f-r-i-g-i-d outside this time of year, warm their heart (and head) with a knit beanie like this popular pick from Carhartt. It has a near-perfect rating on Amazon from over 160,000 (!) reviewers raving about its warm, non-itchy fabric.
If your new boo is always losing track of their wallet, this AirTag-compatible wallet is a practical gift that still shows how well you know them. It comes in a bunch of colors to suit their style and holds up to five cards and an ID, with extra space for cash. Pair it with an Apple AirTag so they'll be able to track its location via the Find My app—et voila!
Skip the fancy dinner reservations and impress your partner with a romantic home-cooked meal. This kit from UncommonGoods comes with double zero flour, porcini mushrooms, truffle-infused olive oil, a ravioli stamp and, of course, instructions—everything you need to make delicious pasta from scratch.
Trust, home cooks of all levels will be so delighted to receive this special Valentine's Day-edition cocotte from Le Creuset. It has an 8-ounce capacity and is oven-safe up to 500 degrees, so it's ideal for whipping up single-serve desserts—how sweet!
A24's screenplay books are a great gift idea for film buffs, since they'll give your giftee exclusive insight into their fave flicks. This Moonlight book features the film's entire script, plus a forward from Frank Ocean and the director's Oscar acceptance speech—perfect for someone who's always updating their Letterboxd account.
Whether they're an experienced marathon runner or a casual jogger, they'll appreciate this sleek af running belt. It has a handy zippered pocket to safely stash away their keys, gels, phone, and more while they hit the pavement.
If they love experimenting in the kitchen, encourage their creative side with Molly Baz's maximalist cookbook for all skill levels. Bonus points for its eye-catching cover, which will look great on their coffee table.
If they're the type to appreciate practical gifts, I *highly recommend* this editor-adored Owala water bottle. It has a sippable straw and chug spout, making it convenient to stay hydrated. I got my boyfriend this exact bottle for his birthday—and he loves how easy it is to throw in his gym or work bag thanks to its spill-proof cap.
Romancing a music lover? Show them you're really listening (heh) with a vinyl version of one of their favorite albums. Amazon has a secret storefront with tons of great options to add to their collection—thank me later.
If they're the type to put hot sauce on everything, make their Valentine's Day extra ~spicy~ with this tasty truffle hot sauce duo. It comes with a medium hot and extra hot sauce to suit a variety of taste buds.
Even if they don't have a green thumb, they'll appreciate this LEGO bonsai tree set. It's a fun bonding activity for couples that doubles as home decor once you finish building it.
This top-rated pick features 150 prompt questions from silly (Who would make a better detective?) to sweet (What's the best date we've ever been on?) that will help you get to know your partner better and make you laugh in the process—what could be better than that?
This small but mighty bluetooth speaker packs a serious punch, and it clips right on to their backpack or belt loop for hands-free listening. I love that it's waterproof and pretty dang durable—I take mine to the beach and on hiking trips, and it's survived a ton of water and sand exposure.
Let's be honest: their sweatpants have probably seen better days. Upgrade their loungewear wardrobe with this pair of comfy and stylish joggers from Vuori. Thousands of five-star reviewers rave about its breathable, lightweight fabric that feels "like wearing a cloud."
Another fab idea for film buffs? This scratch-off poster featuring the 100 top-rated films on IMDb. That includes Interstellar, The Lion King, Parasite, and so many more. This way, you'll have plenty of inspiration for your next movie night together.
I've gifted Quince's cashmere crewneck to almost every guy in my life, and it's earned rave reviews for its ridiculously soft fabric. The versatile silhouette looks great with everything from casual jeans to dressy slacks.
Snif's playful, affordable line of perfumes is the perfect gift for your new flame—whether they're picky about fragrance or not. I'm personally a huge fan of this skin-like scent, which has musky, woody notes of peach skin, orris, plum, and sandalwood.
If you're sticking with a classic gift like flowers, go the extra mile by pairing it with a vase like this adorable pick from Anthropologie. Its vintage-inspired floral design will make any bouquet look sooo much sweeter.
Lauren Gruber is an associate commerce editor at Hearst Magazines, where she writes for publications like Good Housekeeping, Cosmopolitan, Prevention, Country Living, House Beautiful, and more. She has over four years of professional experience covering a variety of lifestyle topics from home to fashion, with an advanced background in beauty and fragrance. When she’s not researching the most worthy Prime Day deals or hands-on testing all the latest perfume launches, Lauren is probably hanging out with her cat Serafina or flexing her AMC A-List membership at the movie theater.
You can find her previous work at Entertainment Tonight, Shop TODAY, USA Today, Self Magazine, L’Officiel USA, V Magazine, and Modern Luxury Media.
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