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Hey, Dude. Skip the Flowers and Candy

Still have no clue on what to get your valentine? Don’t fret, man. We got you covered straight from the source: women.

 

Flowers + candy = great Valentine’s Day gift, right?

Well, not really. Some women say it’s actually pretty lame. Ouch!

While it’s safe to say no woman will turn down a bouquet of fresh roses and a box of their favorite candy, the offer appears routine. It's a safety net, especially on Valentine’s Day.

Women want to be appreciated, and sometimes the go-to flowers and candy combo just won’t cut it.

How do I know? They said so.

I asked local women on our Facebook page to discuss ideal gifts they would love to receive on Valentine's Day. Here are some of the more popular responses that are sure ways to show your appreciation for your main squeeze. Thank me later.

Oh you fancy, huh?

Nails done, hair done, everything did. Pamper your gal by treating her to a massage, pedicure, manicure and haircut. The whole works.

“Massage envy gift cards and gift cards to get a pedicure are always a plus.” —Casey Rae Henshaw.

“As a wife and hard-working stay-at-home mommy of two little ones, I really appreciate a gift certificate to get a massage.” —Trish Stimson Giraldo.

Use our directory to find local businesses offering these services.

Trade places

We often take for granted what women do after the 9 to 5 workday. Take those responsibilities away. Prepare dinner, help the children with schoolwork and wash the dishes.

“Do the dishes and cook an awesome dinner at home.” —Kaylan Flanagan.

“Just take over for the night. Cook dinner, help with homework, run the dishwasher and prepare the following days activities — and let me enjoy my Real Housewives marathon!” —Michelle Padagas

It's the simple things

Sometimes all it takes is alone time with your special gal. Get creative. It doesn't have to be expensive. They just want to spend time with you and have a good time. Don't forget the compliments.

“Just a date is perfect. Not even a fancy dinner! Even a picnic away from phones, work, kids and cell phones. I don't know what woman would pass that up! We just want your time and affection, not your money.” —Amanda Chapman

“Dinner for two, candles, music wine and adult conversation. Forget about every day stress. Throw in some cuddle time.” —Yolanda O’Brien.

A few kind words (and gestures!) go a long way!!! We all want to be appreciated and loved!” —Victoria Aboumrad

Other Valentine's Day articles:

About this column: Sometimes the story falls into our laps here at Livermore Patch. This segment is a collection of spontaneous observations around town and story ideas submitted by residents. Do you have a story idea? Let me know via e-mail: kristofer.noceda@patch.com Related Topics: Valentine's Day 2012 and Valentine's Day Gift Guide
What makes a great Valentine's Day gift? Tell us in the comments.

Michelle

1:11 pm on Thursday, February 9, 2012

Something that makes the week easier and less stressful. Have someone prepare dinners for the week so that all you have to do is heat them up. Makes the evenings so much easier, family usually gets feed quicker, AND no mess to clean up. A nice quite evening always does the trick as well, it doesn't even have to be on Valentine's Day. My husband and I stopped going out on V-Day, it's too loud, crazy everything is more expensive, and service is usually slower . So we do a family dinner at home that night and go out some other night during the week, makes for much more relaxing and romantic evening. Husband still get's me the bouquet of flowers, just earlier than V-day, they are cheaper so I get a MUCH bigger bouquet. :)

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Micaella Martinez Grant

1:50 pm on Thursday, February 9, 2012

I think a gift certificate for a boudoir shoot would be fun! (then again, not everyone wants to do that)

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Sean Geer

11:47 pm on Thursday, February 9, 2012

I think a Scentsy product would be an awesome gift. I have three and I love them. With all the lovely scents, I bet any girl would be happy. Right now I have berries and bubbly warming and it smells just like the scent strawberries and champagne.

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