Take the pressure off with these fun gifts that strike the perfect balance between thoughtful and casual.
There are two very different kinds of Valentine's Day stress in this world: the kind longtime partners feel when trying to come up with the perfect gift for the one person they know better than anyone, and the kind new couples feel when trying to find a gift that says "I like, like you and let's see where this goes!" And we get it. If you just started dating someone, you don't want to make things awkward with an over-the-top Valentine's Day gift. So, what should you do?
Enter Gift Mode, the newest way to shop for presents on Etsy! With Gift Mode, you can find the perfect gift for your crush in just a few clicks, even if you're still in the getting-to-know-you stage. For example, have you had a few dates at coffee shops? You probably noticed they love cold brew. Or have you been over to their place yet? Maybe they always have flowers in a vase. With Gift Mode, you can use these small facts to find the perfect present that will make just the right impact. And chances are that gift will set the perfect tone for your budding romance. According to Etsy's 2023 national gift-giving survey, "59% of Americans have become more attracted to someone as a result of a very thoughtful gift and even started a romantic relationship, or got more serious, after a great gift." Don't say we didn't warn ya!
So, are you ready to take the next step in your gift-giving relationship? Check out our top non-awkward Valentine's Day picks below.
1. A pair of cocktail glasses
SHOP: Stemless wine glasses from Providence Art Glass, $54 each
Perfect for housing wine for your next movie night or for a fun cocktail during a party, these stunning glasses are a great way to say, "You're, like, really cute."
2. Date idea tokens
SHOP: Personalized date idea tokens from clara & macy, from $30
If you're a few months into your relationship where you've been on a lot of dates and feel really comfortable together but it still feels new, these tokens are perfect to get inspiration for some future outings. From road trips to picnics to playing tourists in your own town, you'll have a packed (and romantic!) winter schedule.
3. A fun jigsaw puzzle
SHOP: Colorful wood jigsaw puzzle from Nervous System, $78
Have a cozy night in with this jigsaw puzzle you two can do together, which features a marbled infinity design and 170 pieces for some friendly competition for who will finish it first.
4. A chunky scarf
SHOP: Hand knit scarf from Nisey Knits, $65
If you live in a city that gets cold winter months, help them stay warm until spring with this chunky scarf. The rich gray color also goes with most outfits, making this an instant go-to accessory.
5. A leaf tea strainer
SHOP: Loose leaf tea strainer with red pottery mushroom from Murdeko, $15
Make tea time a little more whimsical with this adorable leaf tea strainer and red pottery mushroom charm. A great gift option for anyone who is into the "cottagecore" trend, this will make them feel like they're in an enchanted forest with every sip.
6. A cold brew coffee kit
SHOP: Cold brew world coffee kit from Driftaway Coffee, $35
If coffee is more their style, help them whip up delicious cold brew every morning with this coffee kit. Complete with three different coffee flavors and mesh bags that are ready to brew, they'll wake up ready to take on the day (and think of you while doing it!).
7. A handmade coffee mug
SHOP: Handmade coffee mug from Spinware, $35
If they love a good mug (and honestly, who doesn't?), why not add another gem to their collection? This handmade cup, which holds 12 ounces of their favorite beverage, features a brown-blue glaze that screams luxury while still being super affordable.
8. A city poster
SHOP: New York poster from Docteur Paper, $33
Whether they love to travel, miss their hometown, or are loving living in a new place, celebrate their travels with a poster of their favorite city. This New York option features many of the Big Apple's most iconic landmarks and is printed on fine art paper.
9. A dessert-inspired candle
SHOP: Strawberry cheesecake candle from Rustic Rays Candle Co., $22
After you finish your actual Valentine's Day dessert, keep the sweet vibes going with this strawberry cheescake-scented candle. With hints of vanilla, graham cracker, and strawberry, it's the fresh scent their home needs during the dreary winter months.
10. A pair of festive earrings
SHOP: Pink and red tassel earrings from Studio Pepita, $20
Fancy jewelry isn't the best thing to get to show you're still keeping it casual—but that doesn't mean you need to steer clear of all jewelry! Ignore those pricey diamonds (for now) and nab these dangle earrings, which are made of hot pink alpaca wool that's wrapped around a red cotton tassel, instead. They're a festive accessory that can easily take the recipient from Valentine's Day right into the bright vibes of spring.
11. A funny greeting card
SHOP: "You're a hoot" card from WinterPicklePress, $6
Want to let them know you think they're great without any major gift-giving? This "You're a hoot" greeting card is hilarious, sweet, and spot-on for any newly-formed couple to still show you care without hitting the gas too hard.
12. Handmade soap
SHOP: Oats and honey handmade soap from ikkilikki, $9
Whether they have a stressful job or just prioritize their self-care, help them wind down on the regular with a handmade bar of soap for a nightly soak. This is a great gift that encourages alone time without you but still shows them that you notice the little things.
13. A pair of cozy socks
SHOP: Abstract art socks from PARKERmadeShop, $31
You can never go wrong with a cute (and cozy!) pair of socks. They'll be able to wear them everywhere, whether it's at the office for a subtle pop of color or at home while lounging on the couch.
14. A flower vase
SHOP: Terracotta bottle vase from atelierShandmade, $59
This gorgeous terracotta bottle vase makes a great gift with or without flowers in it. It's a home decor statement piece that they'll admire for years to come (hopefully with you by their side!).
15. A patchwork blanket
SHOP: Patchwork blanket from YanaBreizhCouture, from $107
Much like socks, a good blanket is always a top-notch gift idea that will never say, "So, what are we?" Cuddle up under this fleece patchwork masterpiece that will instantly give warmth (literally!) to any room.
16. A cocktail infusion kit
SHOP: Old Fashioned infusion kit from Adornwell Cocktail Co., $25
Nothing helps a new couple bond and get to know each other better than trying an activity together, and this Old Fashioned infusion kit is the perfect thing to spark an at-home date night. Simply add your whiskey of choice to the mason jar, let it infuse for 48 hours, and then toast to your first Valentine's Day together without any of the pressure.
*Etsy commissioned the market research consultancy The Circus to conduct a nationally representative survey of 2,001 American adults 18+ from December 2 - 16, 2023.
