Most people have been there before. You're looking for the perfect gift for someone special ? something romantic, meaningful, thoughtful ? and you want to do it without breaking the bank or being tacky. Here is a quick guide to a few of the best romantic presents out there ? they'll work whatever the occasion!
Stars: Some people call it corny, most call it romantic ? whatever they say, there is no denying that giving someone a star is a memorable gift. Lots of websites (for example, starregistery.co.uk) offer you the chance to name a star for the fee of about ?60, meaning you can preserve your loved one's name forever in the sky.
Normally, after naming the star you'll get a certificate and map pointing out the star's location. If you particularly like the idea of a space present you could also look at buying an acre of the moon, Venus or Mars.
Flowers: When someone says romance flowers are probably one of the first things you think of: this reputation is well-earned. Just about everyone loves flowers, and a beautiful bouquet of them can make the perfect romantic present. There are hundreds of different arrangements out there; some companies even let you make your own so you can be sure that the flowers you choose will be the ones your other half loves.
One option to actually get the flowers is to pop out to the nearest supermarket or florist and pick some up there. While this is easy, the flowers may have been sitting out for ages, meaning they won't last as long. Alternatively, order them online from a website like Interflora. This way you can guarantee there'll be the minimum amount of time passed between their being picked and you presenting them to your other half.
Adventure Gifts: Some people prefer more practical gifts, and here is where Adventure Days come in. These are where you can ?buy? an experience for your loved one. Have they always loved animals? Why not buy them a day as a Zoo Keeper at a zoo like London or Bristol? Gifts like this show real thought and you can tailor them to suit the particular tastes of the recipient.
There are literally hundreds of different websites and companies offering every permutation on the adventure day available, so you can guarantee to get something your other half will love. If you really want to make the experience special, why not book a hotel near where the day will take place? That means you can relax afterwards and really savour the experience.
Make it Personal: Another option is to have something personalised for your loved ones. The range of things you can put their name on is amazing ? flip-flops, cutlery sets, car number-plates, teddy-bears, the list just goes on! A particular popular option is a personalised photo-frame: it's a beautiful, lasting present into which you can pop a photo of the two of you.
Maricruz Tennill is a freelance writer and horicultural expert. They recommend Interflora for flowers Oxford.
