One of my favorite holidays is fast approaching, Valentine's Day! Something about all the pink and white lacy hearts everywhere really calls to my girly side. The one thing I am not too fond of is all of the cheesy gifts that the stores sell. Cheap candy, cheap jewelry, cheap stuffed animals in silky boxers... I know it's just a Hallmark holiday but that doesn't mean we need to treat it like one, right? So I decided that I would share a list of some of my favorite, heartfelt gifts to give. There's something for everyone, your kids, your parents, your friends, and of course, your sweetheart!

#1. A scrapbook: Obviously as a photographer I would suggest this one. I have personally done this one myself for my now husband on our first Valentine's day dating. It was a fun way to pass the time on a cold, snowy winter (mch like this one) and it made for a super cute gift. Plus it gives you something to do with all those little trinkets saved from special days out that you keep in the bottom of your purse, or back of your wallet, like movie ticket stubs and the like. And as a special bonus, it is a gift to build upon in the future. Great gift for everyone and something that the kids can help with too if you have them.

#2. A memory box: Similar to the scrapbook but for the less organized love in your life. Depending on the size of the box it allows you to be less limited on what type of trinkets you can throw in. Plus you can still throw in the loose photos and notes that you would normally put in the scrapbook. Also can be used by filling it with little notes about things you have done together and things you would still like to do. A great compromise for those who like the idea of the scrapbook and the convenience of just throwing something in a box!

#3. A handmade card: Personally, I'm not huge on cards. I used to like them but since I was a kid the prices have gotten really inflated. (Now I sound old.) But, there is nothing I love more than getting a hand written note in a card so covered in glitter glue and buttons that I can barely read it. Appropriate for both kids and adults to make and receive. Plus, easy and inexpensive!

#4. Food: So simple. Everyone loves it, everyone needs it. Whether you make a full on candlelit dinner (personally not my forte), bakes something ooey gooey and delicious, or even just pack a special lunch for your special someone, it'll show that person that you were thinking about them. And again, who doesn't like food? Just make sure that you make something appropriate for that person. Nothing says, you should have bought me cheap candy, like serving someone an allergic reaction.

#5. Time: By far the easiest. Just spend some time with them. Do something that you know they love. Go to that restraunt they always want to go to. Go on a walk together and just talk. Play a family board game. If it's long distance, don't send them an email, give them a call. And make sure that it's not while you are running errands. Plan some time to focus on them. No matter what my husband and kids plan for our weekends together, I love it. Because the most inexpensive and most valueable thing we possess is our time.

Hopefully there's something useful in there for you. I know some of it seems obvious but you know that those big box stores make a lot of money on February 13th with last minuters who just need something now. By taking a little time before hand you can really do something special that shows you care. And just an added idea, I know one of the most fun photoshoots I did was on Valentine's Day for an engagement. If you are due for some couple photos, family photos, etc, there's nothing like photos in knee deep snow. :)

If you have any other ideas, feel free to share! I always love new crafty things to try!

Kait