So Valentine’s Day is approaching fast and you’re mulling over getting her, your better half, something for Valentine’s Day. Although the temptation might be to do nothing this year – the scornful looks from her on the 14th isn’t worth the pain my friend. Being reminded of it for the rest of the year isn’t worth contemplating, so putting in some early effort now will definitely hold you in good stead for later.
What do you get her? It’s a minefield out there with Valentine’s this, Valentine’s that! Fear not as help is at hand with Elysium’s Valentine’s Day gift (survival) guide for the discerning gent. From the ensemble cast of goodies here you’re sure to find something that warms the heart of your special lady, ensuring good times ahead for 2012 and no more scornful looks…well not until another double header of footy on a super Sunday!
Step 1 – Chocolates
Every woman loves chocolates no matter what they say about diets and training regimes. As a rule chocolates are a necessity for Valentine’s Day. However they can’t be just any chocolates, they need to be good chocolates for her to enjoy so pick amongst these delectable options:
Godiva
Godiva Chocolatier’s Valentine’s Collection features a range of limited edition Mont D’amour chocolates containing mouth-watering mousse fillings that scream of indulgence. Go for the Fabric Heart, a beautiful crimson material box available in three sizes: 15-piece (small) RRP £45, 29-piece (medium) RRP £65 and 48-piece (large) RRP £115. Just make sure you grab a few pieces before they’re all gone!
Available in stores throughout London– 0207 734 8113 / www.godiva.be for stockists
La Maison du Chocolat
For a novel way to present your chocolaty surprise the ‘Book of Love’ coffret from La Maison du Chocolat gets the nod. Containing some of the most luxurious and captivating chocolates yet, this will catch her attention. Available in three sizes: 8-piece (small) RRP £13.99, 15-piece (medium) RRP £25.99 and 28-pieces (large) RRP £42.
Available online, visit: www.lamaisonduchocolat.co.uk
Step 2 – Champagne
A glass of bubbly is sure to set the mood on this romantic day, so you’re going to need a bottle of the good stuff. Here’s our pick of the best Rosé, because nothing says romantic more than pink champagne:
Lanson Rose Label
Combining its zesty flavours with aromas of roses and berry fruits, this is perfect for the special occasion. On the palate the initial impression is tender; well-rounded and fresh, with a beautiful pure colour with pale salmon touches. RRP £35.99.
Available from Waitrose. More information at: www.lacademiedelanson.co.uk
Nicolas Feuillatte Cuvee 225 Rosé
With a delicate fruity aroma of currants and berries that makes this a wonderful tipple to signal romance in the air. Aged in oak barrels, this champagne goes well with salmon and caviar. RRP £45 in a gift box.
Available at John Lewis. More information at: www.feuillatte.com
Laurent Perrier Cuvée Rosé
Pop the cork of love and signal your Valentine’s intentions with a bottle of this elegant Cuvée Rosé. With exceptional freshness and a unique aroma of freshly picked red berries, this is Valentine’s bubbles with extra bang. The gift box also comes with four champagne glasses, which is always handy. RRP £95.
Available from Harrods, Fortnum & Mason and Selfridges. More information at: www.laurent-perrier.co.uk
Step 3 – Flowers
It’s an age-old tradition to give flowers on Valentine’s Day. Whether lying on the bed for when she wakes up or delivered to her office so she can show them off, flowers are expected and always appreciated. But this year, how about a more unique approach to the delivery method…
Roses delivered by helicopter is an offering that intrigued us here at Elysium since we discovered OnlyRoses. They’re a specialist florist who can arrange for a show-stopping delivery of 1,000 Ecuadorian red roses to be delivered to your lady this Valentine’s. Imagine the look on her face, and everyone else, as a helicopter delivers her ‘Rose Drop’. It’s pricey, but who can put a price on love. As with many things in life, it’s all about the delivery!
The Rose Drop costs £9,640 for delivery on Valentine’s Day (or 11th-15th February). Alternatively, you can get a dozen red roses for £42. For more information visit: www.only-roses.com
Gifts
Now the basics are sorted, you may want to think about a gift to spoil your lady even further. Gift choice is purely down to the character and personality of your special lady, and you’ll know this better than anyone (hopefully!). Here are a couple gift ideas to get you inspired:
If she’s into style – Ladies’ Bulova BVA Series 130 Diamond Watch
Add extra sparkle to Valentine’s with this dazzling ladies Bulova BVA Series 130 automatic watch, featuring an elegant mother of pearl dial and 44 small diamonds. It’s finished off superbly with stunning diamond hour markers and case border. The dial includes a double heart open design. Priced at £499.00 and available from www.WatchShop.com
If she’s into music – Urbanears Plattan Headphones
These eye-catching set of cans from Urbanears is great if the lady in your life is a music fan. Featuring a non-tangle, fabric cord and remote control/mic that are also compatible with all major mobiles and music players. In tune with Valentine’s, the headphones are now available in themed colours of cerise, raspberry and tomato. RRP £50.
Available from Selfridges – www.selfridges.com/
So there you have it – with Elysium’s wise words you’ll be able to impress your lady and bank you some brownie points which may come in handy later. Let us know how to get on via @Elysiummag