Valentine's Day gifts may effect your relationship
Shopzilla, the shopping site, completed a study which tried to measure and determine the impact of Valentine's Day gift giving on relationships. According to the study, it turns out some 75% of people involved in relationships will be doing Valentine's Day shopping this year, and about 60% feel this holiday holds a special meaning for the future of their relationship, much more so than for established couple (in longer, steady relationships).
"Seventy-five percent of people will be shopping for a Valentine’s Day gift this holiday,” said Helen Malani, Shopzilla’s Online Shopping Expert. "The trick for many of these love-struck couples is to not only find fun, special items, but to also select gifts that are appropriate for the relationship stage they’re in."
The period between the end of the December holidays and early February (Valentine's Day) is the so called "National Break-Up Season". It's the time when many couples re-asses their relationship with the other person, and which, according to the study, ends in break-up in about 40% of the time. Shopzilla goes further to break down couples according to phase and type of relationship…
One to Two Months: Starry-Eyed Daydreamers
Everything is new, fresh and wonderful. Couples are in a world all their own and with only 32 percent of couples in new relationships expecting a gift, what a perfect time to have fun with it! Unexpected gifts such as board games, puzzles or health and beauty baubles are great. The key is don’t be too personal, but be indulgent without scaring them away!
Three to Six Months: Eager Adventurers
Things have really started to heat up, and couples are finding themselves in new territory. Gifts that bring to life your partner’s true passions and spark that adventurous spirit are a great fit here. Show you’ve been listening and buy gifts that support your honey’s interests such as golf gear, cooking items or music and movies — to name a few.
Six Months to One Year: Critical Intersection
The majority of both men and women surveyed feel that Valentine’s Day plays the most important role at this stage as you start to discover more about your partner. Think about more meaningful gifts that get to the heart of your relationship, such as personalized jewelry, because when you cross this intersection, you’re an “item.”
One to Two Years: Hip Huggers
Ever known a couple that seems inseparable? If this sounds like your relationship, chances are you’ve been together for about one to two years and are doing virtually everything together. Guys, keep in mind that gifts you can enjoy together are going to be much more meaningful for her at this point. Any experiential gift that you both do together will work wonders. For example, a new digital camera is sure to capture this stage in all its beauty.
Two to Three Years: Hopelessly Devoted
Sixty-eight percent expect to spend more money at the two-year mark compared with the one-year mark in the relationship. As you think about strengthening your devotion and maybe even moving in together, gifts that show true commitment, such as items for the home or apartment, are perfect here.
Three to Four Years: Keeping Things Real
At the three- to four-year mark, it may be a little more difficult to think of gifts that keep the relationship fresh. Thinking about creative yet useful gifts that will remind your partner why they’re with you is the key here — new luggage for that vacation you’ve both been wanting to take or new backpacking gear to escape from the world and get you re-focused — back on each other.
So, which type are you and your partner? Tread carefully this Valentine's Day! 