12 Unconventional Valentine's Day Gifts

Some people love it, some people hate it. (Personally, I fall into the latter category, but ask me again on February 14 and my answer might be different.) It’s Valentine’s Day.

Don’t worry, it’s not today – sit back down, take a deep breath, you’ve still got two weeks.

Fortunately for you, I’ve compiled a list of gift ideas that digresses from the conventional bouquet of roses and box of chocolates. That stuff is great, but sometimes we like a little surprise now and again. So put on your creative cap and take a look.

For Her

The Romantic: Private Hot Air Balloon Ride for Two

What woman doesn’t like the idea of soaring through the air with her honey? (Well, me, who’s afraid of heights). Suggestion: bring a bottle of wine. Another suggestion: ride during sunset.

The Chocolatier: Chocolate Pump and Purse Set

If you can’t buy ‘em, eat ‘em, right? This set of pumps and a purse is made with 14-oz. dark Belgian chocolate filled with caramel and packaged in a purple faux leather box. If you really want to get the excitement going, put it in a Christian Louboutin shoebox.

The Coffee Lover: Husband and Wife Personalized Coffee Mugs

These ‘Mrs.’ and ‘Mr.’ mugs fit together like two peas in a pod, like the pieces of a puzzle (blah, blah). Perhaps you two can sip your coffee (or tea) next to a romantic fire. One question: why is the ‘Mr.’ mug so much bigger?

The Intellectual: Soul Mates Romantic Photo Puzzle

This gift can be a relaxing activity for both of you to accomplish together (by a fire, with a glass of wine).

The Clinger: Bubbling With Love For You Couple T-Shirts

Inseparable? Now your clothes are, too. Because without one, the other doesn’t make sense (insert “awww” sound here). And it's already been decided – the “LO” shirt is for the man, the “VE” shirt is for the woman. No argument necessary.

The Cynical Single Friend: Grow A Boyfriend (a.k.a., me)

Who says single women have to do without? We can make our own meals, shop for our own clothes and now we can grow our own boyfriends. The best part: it’s only $3.99.

For Him

The Joker: Pull a Jessica Simpson and make your boyfriend/fiancé/hubby wear a sign that says “I LOVE MY WIFE” (girlfriend/partner/lover/whatever). Jessica made him wear it to a restaurant for lunch, but I’m sure you could do better (think movie theater, fancy dinner restaurant, a bar).

The Musician: An engraved guitar pick

A guitar pick engraved with his initials, your initials, or both. Or your dog’s. Or all three. Maybe for your gift, he’ll write a song about you.

The Traveler: A cool-looking map, perhaps an antique

Mark the places you’d like to travel to with him (if you want to get really cute with it, mark the places with heart-shaped stickers).

The Businessman: Leather tie case

Includes extra storage for cuff links and tie clips. Maybe he'll even buy a 'Christian Grey' tie to put in it (see Fifty Shades of Grey).

The Foodie: Gourmet dipped strawberries or assorted nuts

What man doesn’t like food? Maybe he’ll let you have a bite. Or feed it to you while cuddling by a fire (with a glass of wine).

The Cook: The Ex 5-Piece Knife Set with Unique Red Holder

Here’s a twist to the boring old knife set. It’s artistic and practical. Just make sure it’s not a source of inspiration. It also comes in black but personally, I like the red.