Five Gift Ideas for Guys and Girls this Valentine's Day

We’ve all seen that last-second shopper rushing to buy a gift for their loved one on Valentine’s Day.

Napa Valley Patch is here to help you avoid that hasty scenario.

There are many ways to go gift-buying for that special someone. So for those that haven’t purchased anything yet - or just don’t know what to buy – here’s some gift ideas for guys and girls that may spur your interest.

For Men

No. 5 – Video Games

Yes, there may be a few head-scratchers on this one, but there are actually a pretty good number of men that fire up their PlayStation 3s and XBOX 360s to play games every night. The one drawback to this gift is that he may end up keeping his eyes on that new game than he does with you. If you don't know what kind of game to buy, visit Gamespot.com and see which ones are popular, then drive to WalMart and pick it up!

No. 4 – Clothing

There’s a good portion of the male population that choose to wear their jeans or shirts until the final seems are hanging on by a thread. Though a man may not be head-over-heels with this gift at first, he will appreciate the new shirt or pair of pants when he’s at work and doesn’t have to worry about a wardrobe malfunction in front of his co-workers.

No. 3 – Athletic Gear

Let’s face it; almost every man participates in some form of athletic activity. A new racket, bat or basketball shoes could give your man that extra boost to claim bragging rights over his friends on the court, field or diamond. A short drive to the Bel Aire Plaza will give you many opportunities to buy the perfect gift for your sports-loving guy.

No. 2 – Treat your man to dinner

We all know the long-standing tradition of the man taking the woman out and paying the bill. Flip-flopping that old-school belief for one special day may be a nice switch to an old perspective. As long as he doesn’t run up the tab, it should set the stage for a nice evening.

No. 1 – Accessories: wallets, cell phones, etc.

Those willing to go that extra mile to woo their man will knock his socks off with a brand-new designer wallet, an iPad or the newest Smartphone. Though these techno-gadgets may not be the most viable gift option for most women, they’ll certainly guarantee a happy man on Valentine’s Day.

For Women

No. 5 – Take her out to dinner –a really, really nice dinner

Many spots in Napa Valley Wine Country will be offering lavish dinners for lovers. The problem: many restauraunts require reservations that are taken months in advance. You might have more luck getting a romantic table in a small neighborhood eatery.

If you can't get a last-minute reservation, check out our guide on great places to kiss in Napa Valley. 

Perhaps the most jaw-dropping of all restaurants is the French Laundry in Yountville. Regarded as one of the top restaurants in the country, their nine-course meal will cost around $270 per person and reservations are taken (and generally gone quickly) two months in advance. Despite the very steep bill, it would be unforgettable night for a couple -- if any spots are still available.

No. 4 – Chocolate

This is simple: buy a box of good chocolate, pop in the film “Chocolat,” mix a bottle of fine wine, and it’s the closest thing you have to a romantic slam dunk, and probably hundreds of dollars less than the previous suggestion.

No. 3 – Flowers

To be specific, roses. Get the best looking red stems you can find, maybe get a bouquet or two with a touch of some pink or white roses in the mix, and give them to her in person. Visit Beau Fleurs for some knowledgable help in this area. Whether at work or school, it will make her day.

No. 2 – Lingerie

It’s no-brainer for most men. If she’s ok with it, buy it.

No 1. – Jewelry

Here’s the one gift that’ll make her eyes sparkle with the same glint the gift has. Women love showing off a new bracelet, necklace or ring. It’s a conversation piece that she will put you in the front and center of when she's talking to her girlfriends.

Remember, these lists are intended to help give you an idea of what to buy a loved one.

Asking them what they want will be the best option for a great start to Valentine’s Day.

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