Valentine’s Day is coming up, and along with it comes gift shopping.

Everyone has a different situation by the time Valentine’s day rolls around, however gifts are always a major factor.

Even if you have been in a relationship for years on end finding gifts can still be difficult.

GBHS sophomore Keegan Hoslett has been in an ongoing relationship and still admits that she looks up suggestions for the special day.

“I just search ‘gift ideas for him’ because I never know what to get,” Hoslett said.

Flowers, chocolates and teddy bears are staples of Valentine’s Day every year, but if you want to go above and beyond a little more craftsmanship may be required.

One of the easiest items to give as a gift is food.

Cookies and brownies are the easiest to make, but if you want to step it up get some icing and write one thing you love about the other person on each treat. Think along the lines of conversation hearts, but a little more elaborate.

A Valentine’s gift can either involve a couple small, thoughtful things or one big item.

If you have a little extra time on your hands, you may be able to make your gifts by hand. Anything made by hand is always thoughtful and usually more meaningful.

When asked what her ideal gift for Valentine’s Day would be, sophomore Marissa Hutchison said she would would want a picture collage of her and her boyfriend.

One idea is a fancier version of a photo collage by using a foam board and cutting out the first initial of both names along with a plus sign or an ampersand. Once you’ve cut them out, fill in all three pieces with pictures of the two of you throughout your relationship, creating a personalized monogram gift.

Another alternative that does not require pre made gifts is, instead, couples can make their gifts together on Valentine’s Day.

An easy DIY is creating mugs with Sharpie drawings. The only necessary items are a couple plain white (oven-safe)  mugs and different colored oil-based Sharpie paint pens.

Once ready, take the Sharpies and create whichever designs you desire on the mug. Allow time for your sharpie to dry and then “bake” your mugs at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

If you’re still looking for gift inspiration, Pinterest is a great website to use in finding creative gift ideas.

Remember, your gift doesn’t have to be big and crazy for it to be meaningful. As long as you put thought into it, you can count on receiving a smile from your date.