This year, over 55% of Americans plan to celebrate Valentine's Day to show love and appreciation for the most important people in their lives. But when it comes to finding the perfect gift for those people, it's easy to get overwhelmed and put things off until the last minute.
So, if you're looking for last-minute Valentine's Day ideas, plans, or gifts that are still unique, thoughtful, and memorable, we're here to help with 6 top picks.
1. Frame a special moment
In the age of the digital photo library, it's easy to forget that sometimes, nothing is as romantic or special as a framed photo. Whether it's a family photo, a throwback from your first date, a candid from your last trip, or a photo of you and your besties during last year's Galentine’s Day, a framed picture makes the perfect last-minute Valentine's Day gift.
Put this gift together in three simple steps:
- Find a frame.
- Print a photo—you can do this at your local drugstore like CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid, or an office supply store like Staples or Office Depot/Office Max.
- Write a special message on the back for an extra touch, then frame the photo.
Your valentine can keep the frame on their bedside table or work desk—somewhere where they can see it and think of you every day.
2. Give a gift card for whatever they love
A gift card always makes a great last-minute Valentine's Day present. Contrary to popular belief, there are many ways to make a gift card thoughtful or romantic.
For instance, if your valentine's love language is acts of service, pick up a gift card or two that will make their life easier, like:
- A gift card to their favorite restaurant
- A gift card to help them get started with a home improvement project
- A gift card for a delivery service like DoorDash, Uber Eats, or Instacart
Or perhaps your valentine loves to indulge in luxury experiences. Consider giving the gift of TLC, like a gift card for a spa treatment, beauty services, or makeup. You can also give gift cards to brands that are meaningful to the two of you, like a Starbucks gift card to commemorate your weekly coffee dates.
Pro-tip
Always shop online or buy gift cards via RaiseRight to earn money back on every purchase! With hundreds of brands to choose from, there's a perfect gift for every valentine.
Not yet enrolled in RaiseRight? Consider establishing this fundraising program to support a school, sports team, music program, church, or nonprofit organization you care about.
Learn more about how RaiseRight works, or enroll for free today.
3. Create a "boo basket"
"Boo baskets" or "bae baskets" are collections of thoughtful little gifts—essentially "stocking stuffers" that you can use to surprise your valentine (or even kids!).
A boo basket is an ideal, thoughtfully curated last-minute Valentine's Day gift. Just visit your local Target or Walmart and stock up on your Valentine's favorite candy, snacks, beauty products, books, and more.
Throw in some slippers, socks, and a blanket, or even a surprise splurge like a pair of headphones. Top off your boo basket with a gift card to their favorite brand to spread the love well beyond Valentine's Day.
Valentine's Day "boo baskets" for kids (credit: baby-chick.com)
4. Chef it up
If you weren't able to snag a Valentine’s Day dinner reservation, don’t worry—cooking at home can be even more romantic, especially if you add extra ambiance with candles or flowers. Plus, it's a great last-minute Valentine's Day plan if you prefer to avoid crowds and surcharge pricing.
Alternatively, search for cooking videos online and host your own couples cooking class! Try baking a Valentine's Day dessert, making fun cocktails, or indulging in a savory new dish together. An at-home cooking night also works perfectly for Galentine's groups or other friends or families!
5. Treat them to an at-home spa day
Another favorite last-minute Valentine's Day idea is an at-home spa day. Here’s what you'll need to pamper your loved one:
- Robes and slippers
- Face masks
- Hair masks
- Foot masks
- Bath bombs or essential oils
Combine scented bath bombs, oils, or candles for a luxurious experience. Or, treat your partner to some alone time so they can wind down. Then, spoil them with an at-home massage or mani-pedi, and end the night with a special dessert or takeout.
6. Spend time outside
Prefer to think beyond the candlelit dinners and lavish vacations? An underrated Valentine's Day plan is simply spending time together in nature. For a sweet and thoughtful last-minute Valentine's Day idea, plan a romantic picnic, stargaze (if it’s warm where you live), or go ice skating, sledding, or snow tubing (if it’s cold).
Celebrate your Valentine with RaiseRight
Last-minute Valentine's Day ideas like these will make any special someone feel loved. And remember, as you plan your Valentine's Day festivities, use RaiseRight to earn money back while you shop for whatever you need.
You can earn on everyday (and not-so-everyday) expenses like gas, groceries, gifts, crafts, or entertainment, and more when you join a RaiseRight fundraiser for a school, sports team, music program, or other organization.
Many families raise $1,000 or more annually just by using RaiseRight wherever they shop or dine! To see the benefits for yourself, try our free Earning Potential Calculator to estimate how much your household can earn in just one year.
