You can never go wrong with fancy chocolates, beautiful flowers and pricey jewelry for Valentine’s Day. But it’s time to admit it: You forgot about V-Day, and it’s too late to plan a romantic getaway or book a weekend for two at that romantic hotel that your sweetheart’s been hinting at all year. Don’t sweat it, though: we’re here to ensure there are no breakup songs in your future. Scope our collection of the funniest and most thoughtful last-minute Valentine’s Day gifts that say, “I’m into you”—without going over-the-top.
Does your special someone have a green thumb? Indulge her hobby with this simple heart-shaped planter, perfect for indoor or outdoor use. Its two sections are perfect for succulents or other small plants... Set to grow in the sunshine of you and your partner’s love.
Heart-shaped planter, $12.99 at Amazon
In our experience, there’s no humor funnier than avocado humor. This silly mug will make a great addition to your lover’s pantry, whether she’s sipping coffee or indulging in a more avocado toast-appropriate pairing like kombucha.
Funny avocado mug, $12.49 at Amazon
If your bae is a caffeine addict, surprise him or her with this classic French press coffee maker from Bodum. Made of simple glass and plastic, the inexpensive press consistently takes home awards for brewing up some of the tastiest java around.
Bodum Brazil French press, $19.97 at Amazon
Fans of the Gray Lady’s weekly “Modern Love” column know that the essays printed in the Times’ Sunday Style section are some of the best written about romance in the aughts: smart, sensitive, funny, sad or usually some combination of the above, they make for addictive reads. Gift your baby 50 of these tales with this compilation.
Modern Love essay compilation, $12.60 at Amazon
Celebs like Kirsten Dunst love the line of scented candles from French clothing boutique A.P.C., with long-lasting true scents that are never cloying. Set the mood with your S.O. with the green jasmine offering: A light, ever-so-slightly-exotic aroma that’s sure to please.
A.P.C. jasmine-scented candle, $50 at A.P.C.
Is your loved one a dynamo in the kitchen? Make sure she thinks of you each time he cooks mac and cheese or shepherd’s pie by gifting her a three-piece set of these adorable mini “cocottes,” little glazed cast-iron pots perfect for individual portions. Cherry-red and heart-shaped, they’ll radiate your love for years to come.
Staub ceramic 3-piece mini heart cocotte set, $59.95 at Cutlery and More
Treat your guy to the ultimate indulgently smooth shave with this personalized kit from razor expert Harry’s. Featuring a five-blade, flex-hinge razor engraved with your dude’s initials, the starter kit also includes two replacement blade cartridges and your choice of bubbly shave gel or slick shave cream—all packaged in an attractive box.
Engraved Winston shave set, $40 at Harry's
Show your gal that you’re totally clued in to women’s fashion by presenting her with this delicate heart lariat, available in yellow, white or rose gold. An elegant chain featuring two looping hearts, the refined necklace makes for the perfect V-Day gift.
Gold heart lariat, $141.10 at Etsy
A consistent winner in professional chocolate rankings, small-batch San Francisco chocolatier Recchiuti crafts luscious, not-too-sweet confections featuring ingredients such as sesame nougatine, salted caramel and Piedmontese hazelnuts. The black box of 16 truffles is a no-brainer. Trust us.
Recchiuti Black Box, $48 at Recchiuti
Said to be a powerful aphrodisiac, ylang-ylang oil perfumes this silky body wash. Gift it to your sweetie and hope he or she invites you in for a bath-for-two.
Ylang-ylang body wash, $30 at Molton Brown
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