Perhaps you’re in a pinch. The florist may be out of roses. And the chocolates are picked over at the store. It is Valentine’s Day and if you’re still empty handed, you’re probably panicking to find a gift in a jiffy. Here to help you with all of your last-minuteness are a handful of non-gift and non-traditional Valentine’s Day gift ideas to spread some love.

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1. Wish greatness upon someone you love.

Let your family members know your dreams and wishes for them. Express it in your own way in a note, or scrawl it on a balloon. Telling someone you’re on their cheering squad is a powerful way to say, “I love you” this Valentine’s Day.

2. Do something unsolicited.

Identify a need in your friend’s life, like cooking a meal or a free night of babysitting, and offer it with no strings attached. An act of generosity goes a long way in letting someone know you care.

3. Start a chain reaction by paying it forward.

Buy your coworker’s coffee or lunch, and then when they say “Thank you” or offer to get yours next time, just ask them to pay it forward to someone else.

4. Give a ‘get out of jail free’ card.

Make your own or just grab one from your Monopoly board game. Explain to your friend that they can redeem it when they find themselves in a bind. After all, friendships are the net beneath us, catching us when we stumble.

5. Throwback.

Honor your history with your significant other by giving a small token or reminder of your past. Perhaps it could be something to symbolize where you met, your first date, or the day you got married. The object can be small, but the sentiment doesn’t.

6. Apologize.

For any relationship you have that may be a tad strained, face the music today. Pick up the phone and make amends with a friend or neighbor. Even someone in business who you thought was your opposition, may in fact become your best ally.

Happy Valentine’s Day to you and yours!

Posted on 2/13/2014

meredith-mathews-picWritten by Meredith Mathews

Meredith Mathews is Creative Director at Half Price Books, America’s largest family-owned new and used bookstore chain. Fourth generation SMU alum, she graduated from the Temerlin Advertising Institute. She is a copywriter, designer and strategist. Meredith’s favorite things in life are spending time with family, autumn breezes, snow-capped mountains, stringed instruments, hats, and baking. You can follow her on Twitter at @msquare21.

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