Collegiate Times

When it comes to buying gifts for significant others, there's often one big issue: you're trying to think of something to get the one person you probably know, love and want to please most — no pressure.

When it comes to buying gifts for significant others, there's often one big issue: you're trying to think of something to get the one person you probably know, love and want to please most - no pressure.

What can I get her that she doesn't already have? What can I get him that he'll actually like? Ideally, every year, you'd completely surprise them with that most thoughtful gift that's exactly what they wanted - again, no pressure.

Now, no one's saying you can't achieve this or something close to it every year, but more often than not, these gifts are rare, which is also part of what makes them so special.

But, there are also some gifts that will almost always please your significant other, and these gifts too can involve the thoughtfulness and creativity that your loved one probably appreciates most.

JEWELRY
No matter what anyone tells you, jewelry is classic, not clich. This could be the fifth time you've given her jewelry, and she'll still love it because it's one gift that can be different every time. For truly one-of-a-kind pieces, visit Kent Jewelers on Main Street in Blacksburg.

PICTURES
Even if you see each other all the time (and especially if you don't), photos of the two of you as a couple or of family or friends can make the best gifts. Walgreens can put your photo on a mug or the cover of a notebook; or for something really different, make a photo mosaic, which takes dozens of photographs and arranges them in the form of another picture. The Andrea Mosaic Web site will help you make your mosaic for free, and a copy store will print the picture to almost any size.

PAMPERING
You still open the door for her, you offer to pay, you buy her roses - you're a downright gentleman. But a gift certificate for a beauty treatment, hair styling, manicure, pedicure, massage or facial will truly pamper her.

PERFUME
There might not be a local gem of a shop that offers unique perfumes, but it's one of those gifts she'll like even more because she can be sure that you like it. When the scent comes with your approval, she'll feel that much better wearing it.

CLOTHES
You might not know the difference between a cowl neck or a v-neck, wool or tweed, polyester or cashmere, but you know what she looks good in. If you think she looks killer in red and you can't keep your hands off fuzzy sweaters, try a red cashmere sweater.

WINTER WARMTH
Scarves, gloves, hats, coats and blankets all make for good seasonal gifts. Each time she puts them on she'll think of you. Blankets can be a more interesting gift than it may seem. Places like Joanne Fabrics have fleece in different prints. If she loves snowflakes or "Starry Night," a fleece blanket sporting either design can be a warm accent for her room.

DINNER & A MOVIE
As clich as it sounds, time is a hugely underrated gift. Take her to one of the nice local restaurants Blacksburg is so full of and just have a nice night together. A place like Zeppoli's has fantastic Italian food and a large wine selection.

SWEETS
If she has a sweet tooth, assorted chocolates, toffee, flavored truffles and fudge from the Chocolate Spike could make a different yet delicious gift.

ADD TO HER COLLECTION
Everyone has a favorite theme, motif or collection they love to supplement. Kari's Keepsakes in Christiansburg has things such as candles, Boyds Bears and Willow Tree collectibles.

VIRGINIA TECH STUFF
Most students never tire of Virginia Tech items. Local company Initial Thoughts can monogram Tech-themed bags, keychains, robes and more.

For him:

JERSEYS
Football, hockey, basketball, baseball, it doesn't matter. Size isn't much of an issue with jerseys, so they're virtually guaranteed to look good and still be comfortable.

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