So you forgot about Valentine’s Day. It’s okay. It happens to the best of us, occasionally. Now run out, buy a card and a bottle of champagne, and don’t waste any time in ordering a proper gift. Even if it’s a little late, it’s still the thought that counts – and if the gift is truly awesome, your recipient will forgive you for being a little tardy. After all, it’s the holiday of love. Try this quiz for some cool ideas.

Or, if you’re looking for something a little more personalized, let me make some suggestions tailored towards your loved one’s specific desires. Chances are, while you’d love nothing more than to grab a generic heart-shaped candy box and a big stuffed teddy bear, you know that stuff just doesn’t cut it these days. To make a truly memorable Valentine’s Day, you need to put some thought (and some heart) into your gifts. Here’s five great gift suggestions, all coming in at around $30.

For the Foodie

The Swiss Colony’s Scrolled Rack with Oil & Vinegar
If your loved one loves to cook, this assortment of flavored oils and vinegars is the perfect gift. All too often, amateur chefs are forced to improvise or go without some specialty items, since they’re simply not practical or economical to keep around. But with this set, all of their meals will have an extra splash of flavor that simply can’t be beat. If your foodie sweetheart is more into snacking than cooking, check out the Swiss Colony’s delectable assortment of cured meats and cheeses.

For the Sweet Tooth

Harry and David’s Conversation Hearts Candy Gift
It’s all the fun of those cute little conversation hearts, without all the chalky unpleasant taste. These adorable gift boxes are filled with chocolate hearts, gummy candies, and chocolate-covered cherries (YUM!) to tantalize the palate. The best part? It costs only $27. You can’t beat that price, and you certainly can’t beat the world-reknowned quality of Harry & David’s gourmet catalog of treats. If you’re willing to spring for slightly more expensive delights, make sure to browse the rest of their site. Their fruits are to die for!

For the Geek

ThinkGeek’s Hacked and Frayed Spy Flash Drive
This brilliant little device is, quite simply, a 2GB flash drive. But it’s disguised to look like a torn up, damaged USB cable that used to connect to something. Lots of students are required to have a flash drive these days, and many professionals need one too – so why not have a little fun with the basic design? With this thing hanging out of their laptop, the beloved geek in your life is likely to get a lot of strange looks. But they’ll never know if it’s the flash drive, or the I Heart Buffy T-Shirt that’s drawing stares.

For the Romantic

Teleflora’s Polka Dots and Posies Arrangement
It’s a little more creative, funky, and fun than the standard dozen red roses – plus, 15% of the proceeds from this pink-and-white bouquet go to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. That makes it a thoughtful gift for anyone, especially those whose lives have been touched by the disease. When it comes to pretty, meaningful gifts that will say it all, you simply can’t beat this kind of deal. And don’t forget to look at the rest of Teleflora’s gorgeous arrangements if you’re looking to spend a little more than $34, which is all the Polka Dots arrangement will cost you.

For the Oddball

Threadless’s “Impossible Love” Shirt
This shirt expresses all the longing that comes with a love that can never be – but somehow, you just know those two crazy kids will make it. If your sweetie is one of those types who enjoys being called quirky, unusual, or even, yes, oddball, then this might be the shirt for them. Especially if you overcame all sorts of adversity to be together – because, hey, you still had an easier time than a cactus and a balloon. Threadless has a ton of awesome, arty, and hilarious shirt designs, and they often run some sweet sales – so you’ll want to add this one to your bookmarks.

For the Punk

Manic Panic’s Amplified Hair Color
Whether or not your punk prince or princess has discovered Manic Panic’s legendary hair colors, they’ll love you for giving them the gift of awesome hair. With colors ranging from Pillarbox Red to Ultra Violet, there’s something for everyone to be found here. Manic Panic’s colors are so strong that they don’t require bleach – even on darker hair, they create a beautiful two-toned accent. Their products are almost impossible to find in retail stores, and they can get used up fast, so even if your recipient is already a devoté of Manic Panic’s shockingly gorgeous colors, they’ll appreciate the gift. For bonus points, pick up matching eyeliner or shadow as well!

Hopefully I’ve helped you navigate the tricky waters of last-minute gift giving. Next year, mark your calendar a week in advance!

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