Dear Jacquelyn,

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. How do you determine what type of Valentine’s Day gift to buy for your significant other?

Dear Reader,

Valentine’s Day means different things to different people.

What you plan depends on how long you’ve been together and how serious the relationship is.

There are lots of questions that relate to Valentine’s Day, but there are a few general pointers, pun intended, for different relationship stages.

For a new relationship, you need to strike a balance between making a good impression and sending them running in the other direction.

If you’ve only gone out on a handful of dates, don’t go crazy. You want to give something meaningful. But if you’re still in the “getting to know you” phase, you definitely don’t want to go overboard. Go for something like a book, CDs, or a gift certificate for the spa.

Long-term relationships require more thought. Use this opportunity to rekindle the romance. Don’t wing it, and be sure to have some sort of plan.

Be a little creative. Try creating a restaurant meal at home with candles and champagne. Write a love letter from the heart. It might be cheesy, sure, but pulling out all the stops will impress your significant other with your thoughtfulness.

For those who have been married a long time, it’s worth investing time and putting some thought into it. Resorting to gas-station carnations is not the best plan.

If you’re lucky enough, make time to be alone and invest in a change of environment. Getting out of your normal routine will help bring back the spark.

Whether you’re spending this holiday with a spouse, friend or significant other, remember to be a courteous date.

Respectfully Yours,

Jacquelyn

Have a question? Email: jacquelyn@ptd.net. Jacquelyn Youst is owner of the Pennsylvania Academy of Protocol, specializing in etiquette training.

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