“Valentine’s is a shoddy excuse for super commercialism.”

“Why do I have to spend hundreds of dollars on this day just because someone decided I have to?”

Give me a break! It’s Valentine’s Day. Stop whining and go love somebody.

And on that note, here are some last-minute gift ideas for those less prepared and still indignant.

Chocolates for Valentine’s Cooking Class at Central Market – for $60/person, you and your sweetheart can enjoy making truffles and rochers and eating them too. You don’t even have to leave your room to make reservations.

Make your own bouquet with some fresh flowers from Sam’s Club. I know, Sam’s Club? But don’t dismiss this Walmart conglomerate yet. They always have sprightly blooms that last longer than you’d think possible. Gerbera daisies are definitely under appreciated.

You can either spend $70 for a box of Godiva truffles… OR spend $5 and 20 minutes to make your own chocolate-dipped strawberries that will surely be deemed thoughtful. You can buy Baker’s Dipping Chocolate at almost any grocery store, and strawberries are about $2.50-$4.00 right now.

You really like this chick? Get a record player that fits your budget, plan a date and head to your nearest record store or Half Price Books. Everyone loves music, and vintage is always in. (Thanks for this idea, James Logan!)
(Note: If she doesn’t like it, keep the player and get rid of her. You shouldn’t keep a girl that can’t appreciate your refined taste.)

Lakewood Theater provides the invaluable service of private screenings you probably couldn’t afford at any AMC. You might not get it for Valentine’s Day, but handing someone a “Private Viewing” ticket in any situation screams classssy. $500 and bring any movie you want.

I usually don’t promote things like jewelry, but I guess other girls like that kind of stuff. And if you have one of these, steer away from places like Zales. Anthropologie has a wide selection of unique pieces she’s bound to fall in love with. She might love it more than you. MeVs will not be held liable in such an event.

DO NOT give gift cards, iPods with your favorite play list (this generation’s mixed tape, but was out two years ago; and she probably doesn’t even like your music anyway), love coupons as the only gift, or anything you think her friends could possibly be getting (you’ll get the bitch-face for two whole weeks).

Gifts are such a weird thing. There are so many rules, financial back-breaking, and headaches; but find the perfect one, and the look on the recipient’s face definitely makes it worth it. Happy Valentine’s from all of us at MeVs!