Gifting when you’re dating someone new – is it too soon?

The Holidays may be quite different this year (thanks, Corona), but that doesn’t mean you can’t share Holiday cheer with those you love – er, even the new people that enter your life. So if you’re seeing someone new this Holiday season, there’s still more than enough reasons to make it count without going over-the-top.

It’s still important to set a budget and stick to it, keeping in mind there should be zero expectations around a gift exchange when you’re dating someone new. Although, truth be told, when you really like someone (and are hitting it off)…. you’re going to want to give a gift – plain and truly freaking simple – regardless of how much is spent.

Gifting when you’re dating someone new – is it too soon? [A super casual gift guide that isn’t over-the-top]

Psst – HEY – yoo-hoo! Before you go ANY further, this gift guide is also meant for you – in the event that the person you’re dating asks you what you want for Christmas. The last thing you want to be asking for is a new laptop (because yours is from the year 2000, slow, and full of viruses) or the latest iPhone (because you gotta have those megapixels to take the best pics for the gram, yo).

No, really, so consider this gift guide for yourself when it comes to dishing your own list for someone new and special in your life. But it’s safe to say if this is your first Holiday together, it’s best to keep it modest.

neutral gift ideas

• Gift cards (such as to a store or coffee shop you know they like) – no, these aren’t cheap, unthoughtful, or corny!
• Date idea surprise – whether that be tickets to something (a movie or game), or give them a card that shares your next planned date idea.
• A thoughtful IOU – if you know she likes being pampered or he enjoys wings and beer with the boys, give the gift of “my treat” – treat them to whatever it is they like in a card that says, “x[$] is on me!”
• A plant – yes, a living plant (just don’t confuse it for having the same meaning as the love fern from How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days).
• Simple, unisex items – think t-shirts or socks, because everyone loves a good pair of fuzzy foot warmers and sporting a tee of their dog/cat’s face.
• A pet portrait – yes way, because if you’re with someone who loves and worships their pet, this is the best you’re going to do – trust me on this one. Just be sure to get this gift in advanced – you’re welcome.

gift ideas for him

1. Motion-sensing light up toilet bowl night light – you gotta have a little humor (and help) if you’re going to make in life, right?
2. Hamilton Beach Breakfast Sandwich Maker – again, funny, but seriously the guy should also know how to make his own damn sandwich by now.
3. Neck and foot massager – who says guys don’t enjoy some relaxation? Let him know he deserves it, too!
4. Date night dice – a little bit cute, maybe cheesy, but still, it adds that extra pizzaz to the dating process! *Psst, I don’t know where you’re at in your relationship, but there’s a sex-related dice option, too!
5. Donald Trump gamer mug – look, don’t overthink this – fan or not and politics aside – if he’s a gamer, there’s no way he wouldn’t get a kick out of this one.
6. Sometimes the gift doesn’t even need to be for him, but for his dog – you read me right, and I almost swear he will be bragging to his buddies about it.
7. And then… there’s always a good ole’ gift basket – it’s okay, don’t sweat it. When it’s a gift that encompasses a little bit of everything he may need, you’re doing him a solid.

gift ideas for her

1. Takeaway decider dice – look, if she doesn’t laugh at this one (or see how it can be the biggest problem-solver), she just isn’t the one for you. *Psst, I don’t know where you’re at in your relationship, but there’s a sex-related dice option, too!
2. Zodiac constellation necklace (or there’s obviously earrings, bracelets and keychains) – if she’s one of those die-hard astrology or zodiac sign women, it’s the little things that matter, if you know what I mean. Besides, if you took the time to figure out her sign, it’s going to mean big.
3. Do the math, what woman isn’t all about those good vibes and smelly scents? If she’s spicy, take it up a notch and really tap into those healing vibes and positive energies with an incense burner. If you know for sure it ain’t her thang, candles are always still a money-maker.
4. Get her a flower that will last forever – literally, because it’s real, dipped in resin and plated with 24k GOLD.
5. Adult beverage lip balms – she has about 20 in her purse already – guaranteed – so the fact they’re cocktail flavored is just an added bonus.
6. Arteza Coloring Book – if she’s the artsy-fartsy kind, this will tickle her creative fancy. Aren’t sure? Get it anyway and make a cute date night of it with some good takeout and wine!
7. And then… there’s always a good ole’ gift basket – this one is for the coffee lover! But really you could go ham on just about any basket option, from bath bombs and aromatherapy to scented candles and lotion.

[Related Read: 75+ Low-key gifts for exclusively new relationships]

See, that wasn’t so bad, was it?

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