How To Pick the Right Gift For Your Relationship Stage

If the romance is between two and four months old, spend a bit more but keep it light – try moderately priced electronics or an accessory for one of their hobbies.

Approaching the six-month mark? Start making gifts slightly more personal. Ladies, show that you’re willing to indulge his preoccupations, even if you have to compete with them. Guys, make it a funky necklace or bracelet if you don’t want her to think it’s a prelude to a diamond ring.

Made it past six months, but still well short of your year anniversary? Make this one thoughtful by splurging on something you know they’d love to have, but can’t or won’t spend the money on themselves.

If you’re approaching the one-year mark, invest in gifts that keep the romance alive, like a weekend getaway, a course or lessons you can take together, or season tickets to something you both enjoy.

Celebrate your one-year anniversary with a one-of-a-kind or hard-to-find item; check out eBay for inspiration. Or how about giving them a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Once you’re firmly established as a couple, feel free to suggest foregoing gifts one year so you can afford one big treat for the both of you – like a trip to the Caribbean or a 40-inch high-definition TV.