When it comes to Valentine’s Day gift-giving in romantic movies and TV shows, the characters often act just like regular people. Some completely forget about the lovey-dovey holiday and rush to figure out the perfect present for the person they love. Several have high expectations with elaborate plans, but, of course, things rarely work out the way they want them to. Then, there are those few successful romantics who humble themselves and get back to the basics of knowing just what the person they love will cherish and appreciate forever. These are the type of people whose minds don’t go blank when thinking about their significant other’s interests.
If you find that you are a part of the majority of people who need a little push or nudge in the right direction when it comes to giving your partner the most perfect gift this holiday, please continue reading. You will find plenty of perfect Valentine’s Day gifts that are all inspired by movies and TV series. Some, like candy and flowers, are a bit on the nose, but then there are several personalized treasures that will absolutely send your favorite person through the roof with happiness.
20 Personalized Playlist or Mixtape — Friends (1994-2004)
In the season six episode of Friends, “The One With Unagi,” Chandler (Matthew Perry) and Monica (Courteney Cox) agree to make their presents for one another on Valentine’s Day, but like a normal person, they completely forgot. In a rush to impress Monica, Chandler finds a mixtape in his closet, and he acts like he spent hours creating it for her. While it does have some of the best love songs on it, they eventually discover that Janice really made it for Chandler years ago.
Why It’s the Perfect Valentine’s Day Gift
While we do not condone anyone trying to regift anything they have received in the past from a former partner, the idea of a mixtape — or playlist, since we no longer have Walkmans or boomboxes — is actually really sweet. You can incorporate songs you both love, anything you may have danced to together, and tracks that remind you of them. This gift will take some time and effort, but their smile and love for it will be worth it in the end.
Friends
- Release Date
- September 22, 1994
- Seasons
- 10
19 A Shared Trinket — Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992)
After being saved by and befriending the “pigeon lady” (Brenda Fricker) in Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, Kevin (Macaulay Culkin) presents her with a Christmas present: a turtledove ornament. Kevin keeps the second one for himself and explains that if they each have one, they will be friends forever. It is the most heartfelt moment in the movie because the woman is clearly misjudged by the masses, and Kevin truly appreciates everything she has done for him.
Why It’s the Perfect Valentine’s Day Gift
Now, two matching turtledoves may have worked for the adorable Christmas film, but you don’t have to stick to just Christmas ornaments as your shared trinket this Valentine’s Day. Perhaps matching keychains, bracelets, or mugs would be better to have and share with your significant other.
18 Jewelry — Pretty Woman (1990)
Vivian Ward (Julia Roberts) became a fashion icon the moment she stepped into the red evening dress in Pretty Woman, but to her surprise, Edward (Richard Gere) felt as though she was missing something. When he pulls out a box with a beautiful ruby and diamond necklace, Vivian cannot help but smile from ear to ear. It is a beautiful piece that Edward specifically says is a loaner from the jewelry store, and Vivian wears it with pride.
Why It’s the Perfect Valentine’s Day Gift
There is no need to go out and find a $250,000 necklace for the love of your life, but browsing the jewelry store for something in your price range may not be such a bad idea before Valentine’s Day. Necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings can all be worn on a daily basis or for special occasions. “Diamonds are a girl’s best friend” has to be a catchy phrase for some reason, right?
17 Private Chef Dinner — New Girl (2011-2018)
Gordon Ramsay is known for his amazing food as well as his very blunt personality, so it came as a bit of a surprise when he joined the cast of New Girl in the sixth season for the Valentine’s Day special “Operation: Bobcat.” Ramsay plays himself and joins Jess (Zooey Deschanel) on the romantic holiday after the latter won a dinner for two prepared by the legend himself. Jess, however, has no one to spend the holiday with, so she and Ramsay have a chat about her single life.
Why It’s the Perfect Valentine’s Day Gift
Gordon Ramsay showing up to your house to prepare an amazing dinner may be a bit of a stretch, but something like this is absolutely feasible. There are websites and organizations that actually send professional chefs to people’s homes to cook incredible meals, and the experience will be nothing short of memorable for you and your partner this holiday season.
New Girl
- Release Date
- September 20, 2011
- Seasons
- 7
16 A Fun Adventure — 10 Things I Hate About You (1999)
Julia Stiles and Heath Ledger had off-the-charts chemistry in 10 Things I Hate About You, and the moment fans were absolutely sold on the couple was when they had just finished playing paintball. They were able to get down and dirty and have fun, something neither of their characters have done in a very long time. Something about just letting loose and playfully competing brings out the best in people.
Why It’s the Perfect Valentine’s Day Gift
If you and your partner are more into experiences than things, then a fun adventure seems like the right kind of gift for you. Like in the movie, paintball is a fun time, and there are plenty of places that have competitions. Bowling, skating, surfing, ax throwing, and hiking can also be contenders for your to-do list. Really, anything that gets the two of you out of your regular routine will be perfect.
15 Unique Decor — Sweet Home Alabama (2002)
Melanie Smooter (Reese Witherspoon) certainly knows about high-end quality items in Sweet Home Alabama, so when she finds herself in her soon-to-be ex-husband’s glass shop, she is instantly humbled. They had learned long ago that when lightning hits sand at a certain temperature, it makes beautiful glass sculptures. She is fascinated that he created a successful and unique business based off their near-death experience.
Why It’s the Perfect Valentine’s Day Gift
Home decor is not for everyone, and no one should be gifting someone else a “live, laugh, love” sign for Valentine’s Day. However, something that is unique and has a history to it is different. Decorations that are conversation pieces and cannot be copied and mass-produced make for great gifts, but these also require a bit of digging, research, and knowing a person’s style preference.
14 A Weekend Getaway — Gilmore Girls (2000-2007)
Rory (Alexis Bledel) and Logan (Matt Czuchry) plan a weekend getaway at Martha’s Vineyard for Valentine’s Day in Gilmore Girls, and to help her mom (Lauren Graham) and Luke (Scott Patterson) get out of their funk, Rory invites them to tag along. The couples enjoy time at the beach house, they make a delicious lobster dinner, and they just enjoy being away from their hectic daily routines.
Why It’s the Perfect Valentine’s Day Gift
Martha’s Vineyard may be quite a distance away for some, so we suggest looking up cute and cool destination spots near you. A couple of hours away from home in a hotel or a quaint little cabin can be the perfect romantic getaway that you and your partner deserve. Instead of exchanging gifts, go experience a new place together and make memories that will last a lifetime.
13 Flowers — Valentine’s Day (2010)
Ashton Kutcher plays a florist named Reed in the star-studded film, Valentine’s Day, and on the titular holiday, he pretty much gets to see everyone in town. Between young students trying to impress their teachers, men who have been with their wives for decades, and individuals who just need a last-minute gift, he has a floral arrangement for everyone.
Why It’s the Perfect Valentine’s Day Gift
For those who expect a gift on Valentine’s Day (and those who need a default gift), it seems like flowers are always the go-to present. If you really want to make an impression, don’t get roses; get something that reminds you of the person who will be receiving the gift. For the person who is sunny and cheerful, get them something bright with sunflowers. For the gardener, an orchid will do just fine. If you incorporate their personality into your selection, the floral arrangement will mean so much more.
12 Formal Wear — The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)
Oh, to be young and in love again would be a real treat, and if anyone experienced even a fraction of the love Charlie (Logan Lerman) and Sam (Emma Watson) had for one another in The Perks of Being a Wallflower, they should truly consider themselves lucky. For Secret Santa, Sam’s brother Patrick (Ezra Miller) gifts Charlie a nice suit, one piece at a time, and instructs him to wear it during the gift exchange. He informs Charlie that all the great writers wear great suits, and to go along with Sam’s gift, a typewriter, Charlie will need to get on board with what the greats have already done.
Why It’s the Perfect Valentine’s Day Gift
We can get so caught up in being comfortable and having just our “work clothes” and “home clothes” that it becomes really easy to forget the amazing feeling that comes with getting all dressed up and going out. Whether it is a new fitted suit, an elegant dress, or just something that screams “power,” nice clothing can never go wrong as a gift as long as there is a purpose for wearing it.
11 Books — Beauty and the Beast (1991)
Plenty of people have talked about wanting to dive right into Beauty and the Beast solely to sit in the Beast’s library all day and read. Belle certainly loves the room as she had always been told that she was filling her head with nonsense stories whenever she was caught with her nose in a book while strolling through town. The Beast, however, certainly did not mind her fascination for books and was pleased she seemed so content with at least some part of their arrangement.
Why It’s the Perfect Valentine’s Day Gift
While many of us do not have the space or budget for a whole library, taking your significant other to a bookstore and presenting them with a dollar amount and the arms to carry their chosen treasures is a great backup plan. Introverts and bibliophiles alike will cherish this time with you, and they will have a few perfect gifts that they wanted in the first place.
Beauty and the Beast (1991)
- Release Date
- November 22, 1991
10 Sing a Song — Glee (2009-2015)
The glee club in Glee has absolutely no problem when Mr. Schue (Matthew Morrison) assigns them to sing love songs during the love-filled holiday. Several decide to serenade their partners and showcase what they believe love is by singing cute and sappy songs. Some songs are upbeat and fun, while others really touch the heart and send a meaningful message to those who are listening.
Why It’s the Perfect Valentine’s Day Gift
You do not by any means have to be a fantastic singer to get someone to fall in love with a song you sing. Between a karaoke serenade or a private couple of minutes between you and your partner, a song sung with heart and passion is all that is needed if you decide to go with this cost-efficient gift.
Glee
- Release Date
- May 19, 2009
- Seasons
- 6
9 Movie Night at Home — How I Met Your Mother (2005-2014)
Lily (Alyson Hannigan) and Marshall (Jason Segel) are practically the definition of “couples goals” in How I Met Your Mother because they are the best of friends. While they do push one another out of their comfort zones at times, they are always there to support each other when things get to be too much. On Valentine’s Day, they have the great tradition of watching Predator. Originally, they were supposed to watch a romantic film, but Marshall’s brother taped over it, and the pair just decided to go with the flow and make it their quirky tradition.
Why It’s the Perfect Valentine’s Day Gift
While gruesome science fiction films may not be your thing, their tradition should inspire others. Find a movie you both love and have no problem rewatching at least once a year for the foreseeable future. There are plenty of films that will melt your heart, make you laugh, and just leave you with that warm and fuzzy feeling inside time and time again.
8 Personalized Collectible — The Office (2005-2013)
As characters become more established in the second season of The Office, relationships emerge and are on full display during the Valentine’s Day special, appropriately titled “Valentine’s Day.” Not knowing that they were exchanging gifts, Dwight (Rainn Wilson) receives a mini-Dwight bobblehead from Angela (Angela Kinsey), but he does not have a present for her. He is overjoyed with his customized gift and quickly thinks about what to get her that is equally amazing.
Why It’s the Perfect Valentine’s Day Gift
If you know that your partner collects a certain item — whether that be bobbleheads, mugs, figurines, snowglobes, or any kind of trinket that they happily put on display — consider getting them a personalized item to add to their collection. You can add a little note to the bottom reminding them of how much you love them, and they will absolutely love that you thought about their interests when making or purchasing their gift.
The Office (U.S.)
- Release Date
- 2005-00-00
- Cast
- Steve Carell , Jenna Fischer , John Krasinski , Ellie Kemper , Rainn Wilson , Angela Kinsey , Melora Hardin , Rashida Jones , Mindy Kaling , Creed Bratton , B.J. Novak , Ed Helms , Brian Baumgartner
- Seasons
- 9
7 Rewrite/Renew Your Vows — Grey’s Anatomy (2005-Present)
Shondaland
Out of all the iconic props that can be found on the set of Grey’s Anatomy, Meredith (Ellen Pompeo) and Derek’s (Patrick Dempsey) vows written on a blue Post-It note will forever be at the top of the list. In the heat of the moment, the two vowed to love one another even when they hate each other. They say they will not run from the relationship, even if they grow to be old and smelly. It may be silly to some, but those words meant everything to the couple in the moment and for the rest of their lives.
Why It’s the Perfect Valentine’s Day Gift
If you are married, and you cannot even remember your vows, take a moment to find and go over them. Consider if all the words are still true. Should anything be added? Renewing, rewriting, or even adding to your vows can be one of the most romantic gestures you will ever make. Your partner will likely well up in happy tears thinking about how far the two of you have come and the precious and amazing moments you have spent together since the moment you two said “I do.”
6 New Journal — Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001)
As a part of her New Year’s resolution in Bridget Jones’s Diary, Bridget Jones (Renée Zellweger) begins keeping a diary to jot down anything and everything in her life. She wants to stop drinking and smoking, she wants to be passionate about life again, and she really wants to find the perfect man. Her diary keeps all of her most personal thoughts, and when Bridget realizes that Mark (Colin Firth) has read it, her whole world comes crashing down. Happily, he felt her journal was just about filled out, and he ran to the store to purchase a new one for all of her future adventures.
Why It’s the Perfect Valentine’s Day Gift
Gone are the days when we kept fuzzy pink journals with cute little locks on them under our pillows. Now, if and when people find themselves journalling, they are often writing to clear their minds or get their brain focused on an upcoming project. It’s a common practice that helps alleviate the frustration and stress that comes with overthinking, but it is also a great way to become a more self-aware individual. Writing is helpful and fun, but it all starts with a great journal and the perfect pen.
5 Favorite Candy — 13 Going on 30 (2004)
After reuniting and having a great day working togetherin 13 Going on 30, Jenna (Jennifer Garner) and Matt (Mark Ruffalo) find themselves taking a trip down memory lane to the convenience store where they buy their favorite childhood candy, Razzles. The sweet treat reminds the former best friends of the simpler times when their troubles weren’t as problematic because they had one another to lean on.
Why It’s the Perfect Valentine’s Day Gift
Food has a way of connecting people, but there is something about candy that makes a lot of us think about our childhoods. This Valentine’s Day, consider getting your partner their favorite candy from back in the day. Don’t opt for one of those cliché heart-shaped boxes filled with chocolates. Put some effort into this present and reach out to their parent or best friend and see if you can surprise them with a short trip to the past as they recall their days that likely involved a lot more sugar.
4 Love Letter — To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before (2018)
In To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before, Laura Jean (Lana Condor) never in a million years meant for her love letters to be sent to every crush she’d ever had, but as fate and one nosy little sister would have it, her biggest secret was out. In the letters, Laura Jean explains when she started liking the guy, why she likes him, and a couple of specifics about their encounters together. Rather than just finding closure with her thoughts on the page, she finds love.
Why It’s the Perfect Valentine’s Day Gift
Taking the time to pour your heart and soul onto a page can be scary, and that is precisely why it is the perfect gift this Valentine’s Day. You can get a card, make a card, or find a clean piece of paper and remind the person you love about exactly what made you fall in love with them and why you continue to choose them every single day.
3 Video Showcasing Your Love — 50 First Dates (2004)
There is absolutely no cuter couple than Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore in 50 First Dates, where they played Henry, a local veterinarian, and Lucy, a lovable woman who cannot retain any new memories since her accident. It’s like Groundhog Day meets rom-com. After falling in love with Lucy and convincing her every day that she also loves him, Henry creates a homemade video that Lucy plays each morning, showing her their life together for the last several years. The tape has footage of Henry, the two of them together, their friends and family, and their daughter together. Each day, when Lucy watches it, she gets to fall in love all over again with her life.
Why It’s the Perfect Valentine’s Day Gift
Out of all the gift ideas on this list, this one will likely take the most time, but it will mean everything to the recipient. If you record yourself and a few others depicting the love story shared between the two of you, there is a pretty good guarantee that you know you have found the person with whom you will spend the rest of your life.
2 Picnic Under the Stars — Friends (1994-2004)
In the season two Friends episode, “The One Where Ross and Rachel… You Know,” Ross (David Schwimmer) does everything he can to be romantic with Rachel (Jennifer Aniston), but too many things come up. Eventually, he gets the great idea of using the museum’s planetarium as their own private getaway under the stars. They lay out a fur pelt as a blanket from one of the displays and, with drinks in hand, they enjoy a nice picnic under the stars.
Why It’s the Perfect Valentine’s Day Gift
When was the last time you went outside and looked at the stars? It is something most of us did more as kids, or we talk about it when we get away from the city. This Valentine’s Day, you should pack up a small bag with snacks, drinks, and a blanket and head out to look at the night sky with the person you love. It’s romantic, it may be spontaneous, and you will be in for a long night of deep conversation.
1 Personalized Candle — Love Hard (2021)
Josh (Jimmy O. Yang) has always lived in the shadow of his brother and has just tried to do what he can to help his family in Love Hard. When Natalie (Nina Dobrev) finds out about his candle-making hobby, she encourages him to break free from his family’s expectations and start his own business. Josh reveals that he’s been trying to perfect his grandfather’s scent since his passing, and he’s finally gotten it right. The candle holds a lot of memories for him, and Natalie realizes the difference a simple gift can make for someone.
Why It’s the Perfect Valentine’s Day Gift
Candles are a nice gift, but they can feel like a thoughtless present. If you go out of your way to customize a candle (yes, there are places that do this), then it becomes something more meaningful. Think about your favorite scents or what the person you love reminds you of. Is it sunshine after a rainy day? Is it a field of flowers in the spring? Think about these things, and have fun creating a gift that will warm their heart and their home.
Love Hard
- Release Date
- November 5, 2021
- Director
- Hernán Jiménez
- Cast
- Nina Dobrev , Jimmy O. Yang , Darren Barnet , James Saito , Rebecca Staab
