Valentine’s Day gifts have grown a bit stale. Your sweetie has learned to expect chocolates, cards, and jewelry. Do these things truly express how much you care, or are they just staples of the holiday? The following aren’t your traditional holiday gifts; they are ideas that will set you apart from the crowd. If you give one of these from-the-heart gifts, you’ll be telling your special someone, “I know you.” The following gift ideas go above and beyond to express love for your sweetheart this Valentine’s Day.  

Add to a Collection

If your other half is a collector of sorts, then add more to their collection. Do it in a romantic way, such as presenting a rare document from the Raab Collection in a gift wrapped box. By adding to their collection, you’re showing your love and appreciation for them for who they are, and that it’s your desire to please them with something you know they’ll enjoy.

High-Quality Homemade Gifts

As they say, it’s the thought that counts; however, if your thought begins with Popsicle sticks maybe switch to something store bought. If you’ve got mad crafting skills, than nothing is sweeter than a homemade gift. The secret is to use creativity and imagination (don’t just knit some socks and call it a day). Craft something that shows you took time to make something unique, such as refurbishing furniture or a decorated beanie. For more ideas, check out BuzzFeed’s 40 DIY Valentine’s Gifts They’ll Actually Want.

Another great DIY gift is the handwritten letter. A beautiful letter on quality stationery is necessary for this to make an impact, and make sure to include some truthful sentiments.

Personalized Items are always Romantic

If you’re really stuck for ideas, consider personalization (engraving, decaling, etc.). If you choose personalized jewelry, consider adding names and anniversary dates or a sweet sentiment that has special meaning for the two of you.

Remember: Valentine’s Gifts don’t have to cost a fortune to make an impact. You could personalize an item yourself, such adding a name to a flask or stitching a sentiment into a book bag.

Eat Your Heart Out

Food on Valentine’s Day is fairly traditional, but consider non-traditional foods and you’ve got yourself a unique and memorable present. For example, if she is a fan of dark chocolate, consider having the chocolate imported from a European chocolatier. The secret to choose meaningful foods for Valentine’s Day is thinking outside the box. Don’t just walk into the local supermarket and grab a tin of cupcakes or a heart-shaped box of chocolates; go the extra mile to truly impress your lover.

The secret is choosing something you know the recipient will love. Try putting thought into that special person, and surprising him or her with a gift that truly expresses your love. If you know your sweetheart inside and out, this should be easy. If you don’t, it may take some sleuthing to get the gift right. The most important thing is that you choose the sincere and jaw dropping route this year.