Flowers, chocolates and teddy bears, oh my! Those Valentine’s Day gift staples are certainly tried-and-true. But sometimes you want to give a gift that shows you put a little more thought into it while staying away from the “cheesy” terrain that some overly sentimental Valentine’s Day gifts can fall into.
While we won’t knock you if you want to go the classic flower or chocolate route (who would?), we gathered some editor-recommended and budget-friendly items that will up the wow factor and help you shake things up this year — without being too corny.
If you’re in the market for a unique gift that stays away from being predictable while also playing into their hobbies, we have affordable options from needlepoint canvases, cozy PJ's, heart-shaped cookware and more — offering everything your significant other or Galentine could ever want this Valentine’s Day.
Sourdough, made with love$undefined$39.97
A practical gift$undefined$75.00
Editor-loved and recommended$undefined$95.00
Unique Valentine’s Day gifts people don’t already own
I [Hoeger] always earn compliments on my stationery from E. Frances because of their unique and oftentimes colorful designs. This set is perfect for Valentine’s Day (it's part of a larger collection), as it features a line of hearts across the bottom.
Dubbed the “Carrie Bradshaw of this generation,” Eli Rallo’s debut novel offers sage advice on “flirting, feeling and finding yourself.” Whether you’re gifting this to a Galentine or yourself, you’re sure to walk away with some new tips on manifesting a Valentine for next year.
Did your significant other start making sourdough and never stop? This two-quart Dutch oven from Drew Barrymore’s Beautiful brand is just the thing they need to continue. Affordable and easy-to-use, this petite, deep red accessory will also double as V-Day decor in their kitchen.
Described as a “personalized gift on the fly,” this arts and crafts gift gets the entire family involved in a gift for Mom, Dad or the grandparents.
This is the perfect gift for “The Lovers,” “The Dreamers” or simply the friend who likes to read your fate like one of their favorite novels. It comes with 22 miniature cards and a bird cage-like necklace to store them in.
Quirky Valentine’s Day gifts that still feel thoughtful
Sharpen your pencils, because Pinterest predicted an increase in “snail mail gifts” and “hand written letters” in 2026. These themed cards feature snails dressed as postal workers that you can send to 24 of your Valentines.
For a classic Valentine's Day gift with a unique twist, treat your Valentine to a box of chocolates that "are affordable, come in a variety of flavors and have adorable packaging that resemble a book," per associate editor Allie Wise.
If their job consists of emails and meetings galore, gift them with this tee that pokes fun at the mundane. Inspired by the “Barbie” movie, there are also tees for nurses, teachers, librarians, journalists and even children, too.
This unique gift allows you to turn photos into reels that can be looked at through a vintage-inspired viewer. Use it to make keepsakes of special moments and milestones throughout your relationship and life together. It can also be used to share special messages or surprises through photos.
"I've had so much of their chocolate at this point thanks to their PR team and have never had a bad bite coming from them," says deputy managing editor Jess Bender about Bissinger's chocolate. "On my radar this year is their take on the classic chocolate bark, which has a sweet pink chocolate swirl and topped with freeze-dried strawberries."
Crafts, more specifically analog activities, are seeing a boost in popularity as more individuals are swapping them for time spent on their phone.
Experts we interviewed say crocheting is a great way to unwind — and this beginner-friendly kit makes it easy to learn a new hobby, too.
Statement Valentine’s Day gifts worth splurging on
Pair this cottage-inspired light with a novel from their to-be-read list (may we suggest "Heated Rivalry" to stay on theme?) Not only does it emit a "soft" light that helps them to see the pages, but it acts as a stand that holds their spot.
Similar to crocheting, needlepointing has also risen in popularity in recent months, with searches for “beginner needlepoint items” up 208% YoY (year over year).
This pattern can be gifted to the newlyweds, the master crafter in your life or someone who just wants to learn a new hobby.
"I can't recommend Leatherology's personalization feature highly enough for Valentine's Day," says partnerships associate editor Lauren Witonsky. "You can write someone a handwritten note, love letter, etc. and upload it for it to be embossed on tons of the brand's products. My parents did this for me with a notebook (yes, my nickname is bunny), and it has become such a special personal keepsake!"
Get zapped with your Galentine or Valentine with this gift that lasts far longer than a heart-shaped box of chocolates. Catbird has multiple locations across the US, where you both can choose to get matching bracelets complete with different finishes, designs and charms.
These look like your basic pair of pajamas — but for someone who often wears American Eagle boxers and an old T-shirt to bed, this set from Lake Pajamas is a game changer. Not only does it help me [Hoeger] feel like I have my life together (especially after an everything shower), but they've remained as soft as the day I've received them, even after a year of wearing and washing them!
How we chose
The Shop TODAY editors and writers search the internet to find the best and most unique products that would make touching Valentine’s Day gifts. We use our own personal experiences with products and brands to make shopping easier for our readers.
Don’t forget to check out Shop TODAY’s other gift guides to find the perfect Valentine’s Day gifts on Amazon, for long-distance relationships, for Galentine’s, for new couples and more.
