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valentine’s day gift ideas: guy gear

 Chocolates - Credit: Ghirardelli

Chocolates

Chocolates are a great noncommittal gift. Get her a box that emits class, not something from the drugstore, and get her a variety box if you don’t know whether she’s a caramel girl or more into truffles.

Relationship level: Not yet committed

 Dog treat - Credit: iStockphoto.com

Dog treats

When you’ve first met a girl, you’re unlikely to know her likes, dislikes and diet restrictions. You always, however, know what kind of treats her dog (or any other pet she may have) will appreciate. Buying a gift that’s healthy for her pet shows you’re sensitive to her beloved buddy’s well-being.

Relationship level: Not yet committed

 Flowers - Credit: iStockphoto.com

Flowers

While a bouquet of red roses may be a bit overzealous for a first date, other flowers may send your message perfectly. Do some research and choose carefully; gardenias denote secret love, orchids are always lovely, showing beauty and refinement, while yellow roses mean friendship. Just be sure to order your flowers early because Valentine’s Day can be a busy time for this industry.

Relationship level: Works for all levels

 Heart-shaped pendant - Credit: Zales

Heart-shaped pendant

Pendants were practically designed for giving to new girlfriends: They’re sweet (but not too serious), pretty (but not distractingly eye-catching) and tailor-made to make her swoon on a daily basis.

Relationship level: New romance

 Strawberries - Credit: Berries.com

Hand-dipped strawberries

Strawberries in chocolate are a trademark seduction treat; they wonderfully mix the romantic with sexual fantasy, without being as obvious as lingerie. Buy these pretty, tasty treats, and prepare to nestle down and share. Or better yet — make them yourself.

Relationship level: New romance

 Bed and breakfast - Credit: iStockphoto.com

Bed & breakfast getaway

Bed & breakfasts offer a unique mix of comfort and luxury. Moreover, plenty of B&Bs offer treats like wine tours and nature walks. If you’re looking to underscore the romance in a new relationship, a getaway is the way to do it — and you will definitely sweep a new romantic partner off her feet with a local romantic trip.

Relationship level: New romance

Read on for more Valentine’s Day gift ideas…

 Gold bracelet - Credit: Zales

Gold bracelet

This piece of jewelry reminds your girlfriend just how much your time with her has meant to you, while also providing her with something she’ll be more than happy to sport every day.

Relationship level: Long-term relationship

 Espresso maker - Credit: Canadian Tire

Espresso maker

A gift that gives her one of her favorite treats right at home is thoughtful and kind. After you’ve been together awhile, it’s possible you’ll be spending lots of long mornings at her place and a coffee maker is the perfect gift to let her know how much you’re looking forward to them.

Relationship level: Long-term relationship

 Luxury lingerie - Credit: Agent Provocateur

Luxury lingerie

This gift sets a precedent for fun. It is a gift the two of you can share and will bring out the intimacy that your new union entails. On the whole, it is romantic and adventurous without being intimidating.

Relationship level: Long-term relationship

 Gemstone earrings - Credit: Zales

Gemstone earrings

Although gift demands change over the course of your relationship, one thing doesn’t: Jewelry will always melt her heart. Remind her, that after all this time, you love her as much as ever. Surprise her and make her feel extra special with this gift.

Relationship level: Newlyweds

 Spa getaway - Credit: iStockphoto.com

Spa getaway

Show her that you’re looking out for her by giving her a treatment package from a local spa, or get one for the two of you to experience together. Either way, you’ll make her feel fresh and sexy — this gift is straight from the heart.

Relationship level: Newlyweds

Couple cooking classes - Credit: iStockphoto.com

Couple cooking classes

Finding cooking classes in your area will indicate your interest in activities together; you’ll build cooperation skills and learn a new art.

Relationship level: Long-term relationship or newlywed