Four Tips for Avoiding a Valentine's Day Disaster

 

Valentine's Day is this coming Thursday . . . and if you're still stressing out over an overly commercialized, artificial holiday, we've got four tips for how to avoid a complete disaster.

  

#1.)  Stereotypical gifts like flowers and chocolate are just 'okay.'  Sure, not many women HATE flowers or chocolate, but it can also look like you put no thought into the gift.  Instead, aim for something a little more personal . . . like tickets to see her favorite band.

  

#2.)  Don't ignore it . . . or over-hype it.  Guys, even if your wife or girlfriend says she doesn't want anything for Valentine's Day . . . GET HER SOMETHING.  Because one in eight women who say they don't want a Valentine's gift secretly DO.

  

--On the other hand, ladies, keep your expectations in check.  That means DON'T go into it secretly hoping for a diamond ring.

  

#3.)  Make the right plans for your relationship stage.  If you just started dating, it can be tempting to go overboard.  But you're better off making plans based on how long you've been together.  (--There are date suggestions for every relationship stage here.)

  

#4.)  Make plans even if you're single.  Valentine's Day can suck if you're single.  But instead of sitting at home feeling sorry for yourself, do something that makes you feel good. 

  

--Get your single friends together for wine and horror movies . . . splurge on a new gift for yourself . . . or renew your New Year's resolution.

  

(Match.com)