Keep in mind that you don’t need an occasion to make it worth giving a gift. Gifts are always welcome, and never mean anything less if you give them spontaneously.

Romantic gifts include roses, heartfelt letters and wine. They’re good for romantic occasions like an anniversary of Valentine’s Day. Practical gifts have real use and range from socks to video games. They don’t require a specific occasion, but they are well suited to birthdays and Christmas.

The one exception to giving a novelty gift is if your boyfriend is genuinely into them, or if both of you are giving each other novelty gifts–such as an April Fool’s day prank.

For instance, if your boyfriend is into sports, you can buy a signed collector’s jersey from his favourite team. As another example, if your boyfriend loves orthodox black metal, you might consider ordering a Deathspell Omega vinyl or some merch from Europe.

What’s more, the fact that you’ll have listened so intently to what he says will make you seem like an even sweeter partner.

Brainstorming with other people who know your boyfriend can be very helpful if you’re having trouble thinking of a gift. Steer clear of friends you think might spoil the surprise in advance.

Check online reviews to get a good idea of the product’s quality. .

Get yourself a ticket as well to turn the gift into the opportunity for a shared experience. [6] X Research source

For example, if the two of you first met at the zoo in the African Safari section, a plush Lion would represent much more than a cushioned toy. It would be an acknowledgement of your origins as a couple.

A great example would be a nice, framed photograph of the two of you together. Another example is a custom-engraved keychain with his name on it.

Consider making something that he can use, such as knitting him a scarf or hat.

You can sometimes take advantage of great sales. Certain sales, like Black Friday or Cyber Monday, offer major discounts on items.

If your boyfriend lives with you, you should consider the risk that he may be the one to see the package on your doorstep before you. If this is a risk you should have the package shipped somewhere else like a friend’s place.

Online purchases will take at least a week to arrive on your doorstep.

You can put your gift in an envelope as well if it’s fairly small.

If you think it’s going to be enough of an issue to hide it, you can always hide it somewhere away from home, such as your parents’ home or a friend’s place.

If you really feel the urge to spill the secret, consider telling it to a non-mutual friend–this way, they won’t accidentally tell him!

For example, you could write: “This scrapbook contains all of my favorites memories of us. I hope it makes you smile as much as it made me!”

Some gifts can be given at specific times. For example, Christmas gifts can be left under the tree. If it is a large birthday party, you can leave your gift with the others.

Lead up to it. Say something like: “Oh! I got something special just for you! Let me get it out. . . "

Don’t worry if he doesn’t seem thrilled with it. Everyone expresses warmth and excitement differently, and some people feel nervous when they’re put on the spot.