Tis’ the season when some of us attempt to buy gifts for the people we’re dating and fumble horribly.
It’s tough — when you like someone, you want to give them something to let them know you’re thinking of them. However, if you don’t know each other that well yet, coming up with an appropriate gift can be challenging.
Lucky for you, we’ve done some of the leg work so you can get back to doing what you do best — swilling gallons of rum-laced eggnog with your gorgeous date by your side.
Not sure what to get that special person for the holidays? Here are a few suggestions.
Dating for less than a week
You are not required to purchase a gift for this person. In fact, showing up with a gift for your second date might be considered a bit over the top. Instead, if you want to do something special, keep things simple. Bring them some flowers, a small holiday plant or offer to treat. Small gestures like this are a great way to make your date smile — regardless of the time of year.
Dating for 1 to 2 months
Good: If you’ve just started dating and want to give your boo a holiday treat, you can’t go wrong with something perishable that you can enjoy together, like a nice bottle of wine or champagne. Also, gifting an upcoming experience – for example, tickets to a cheesy Christmas movie you’ve both been dying to see or an extra special date night (hayride included) is also a great option.
Not so good: Buying them tickets to an advent that’s months in the future. Even if you’ve had the talk that you’re exclusive and in this for the long haul, inviting someone to an event that’s happening months in the future can add unnecessary pressure to your blossoming relationship.
BAD: Anything pricey like jewelry (diamonds!), electronics or clothing. First of all, you probably don’t know the person well enough to be able to successfully pick out these kinds of big ticket items for them. Secondly, it’s just too much. Instead, focus on giving experiences, not things.
Dating for 3 to 6 months
Good: Any of the above recommended gift ideas are great options here, however don’t be afraid to get a little bit more personal. For example, give them a book they mentioned they were interested in reading or something that alludes to an inside joke you have. If things are going really well and you’re exclusive, doing something cute like framing the photo-booth strip you took together can also make a sweet gift.
BAD: An engraved ring that says, “I love you forever.” Even if you feel that way now, you might just want to slow your roll and wallet for the time being.
Dating 6 months to 1 year.
Good: You’ve been dating for a while now, so it’s OK to go a bit bigger. If things are going well, consider buying them tickets to their favorite sports team or a nice item like a watch, a bag or a small piece of jewelry that will remind them of you whenever they wear it. You could even plan a fun weekend getaway or spa day for two.
Bad: A place on the waiting list for the wedding venue of your dreams. Kidding. Not really. Basically you don’t want to give the person anything that goes beyond the seriousness of the relationship.
At the end of the day, there are no ultimate wrong answers here. If you’re not sure what’s appropriate, have a conversation with the person you’re dating. Figure out what kind of budget you’re both comfortable with and go from there.
