Valentine’s Day gift giving etiquette

Valentine's Day is just around the corner and whether you've been with your sweetie for a few weeks or 15 years, the rules and etiquette around gift giving can seem confusing.

We recently spoke with Match.com relationship expert Ashley Howe to get her advice on Valentine's Day gifting etiquette. Here are her tips for banishing awkward gift giving exchanges:

1. Don't break the bank for new lovers

If you've been dating less than a couple of months, a gift is not necessary. In fact, a survey by Match.com found that Canadians believe gift giving should start after one or two months of dating. Beyond that time frame, spending around $50 or more is acceptable.

"You don’t always need to spend a lot of money to show you care. A small gesture will always be appreciated, no matter how long you’ve been dating," says Howe.

2. Stay away from "commitment gifts" in a new relationship

Some gifts can put too much pressure on a newly formed relationship. For example, an expensive piece of jewellery or watch can lead your new love interest to believe the relationship is headed down a very serious path, when perhaps he/she simply wants to take things slow. That said, Howe suggests that tickets to a concert or play, even if they are pricey, are a great way to show a new love interest that you want to spend time with them and you value the relationship.

Also see: Valentine's gifts for every budget

3. Keep in mind the type of restaurant you choose

Taking someone special out for dinner is a great gift idea. Aside from making a restaurant reservation well in advance due to crowds, bear in mind that the ambiance and vibe of the location you choose should be relaxing.

"Restaurants that are too crowded or loud will overshadow your conversation, affecting your ability to develop a connection," says Howe.

She suggests that for new lovers who want to get to know each other better, moving the date to a busier spot after dinner is an excellent way.

"You can see how your date interacts with others or responds to music. Do they seem energized by lots of people or get drained by too much atmospheric stimulation?" she notes.

Also see: Chocolate ganache tart recipe

4. If you are cash-strapped, don't avoid your loved one

Being broke is not fun, but this doesn't mean you have to hide from your special someone in shame on the most romantic day of the year.

"Twenty-three per cent of Canadians say they would prefer to receive a handmade valentine on Valentine's Day," says Howe.

Consider making a card or baking cupcakes. If you aren't crafty nor a stellar baker, going skating and then warming up by a romantic fire with hot chocolate is just one of many cheap date ideas. Even a simple cozy night in cooking, playing board games and sipping wine can be an excellent way to reconnect with your partner.

Also see: Make a Valentine's Day message in a bottle

5. Don't overreact if you don't get a Valentine's Day gift

Try not to be disappointed if you don't get a gift, as there could be many reasons why.

"Perhaps they have been hit with an unforeseen expense and money is tight, or maybe they have taken a pay cut and are adjusting to living within a smaller budget," says Howe.

She recommends that before any gift-giving occasion it is a good idea to discuss how much you each plan to spend, or if you plan on exchanging gifts at all.