by Tony Catalano

Created on: November 06, 2009

So maybe your anniversary or her birthday is coming up. The question is what in the hell do you get her so you don't look like every other boyfriend in the damn world?

Well, I'm sure you've already gotten her flowers, a stuffed animal or some other wishy-washy shenanigans ten times before. Let's start trying to think creatively gentlemen (hence the title).

The first idea I propose is a photo album, but oh no, not just any photo album. Make her a custom photo album of you and her and all those fond memories you've had together. You can do so for not much at all at http://www.smilebooks.com/. Your average photo book will run you anywhere from $20-$30. Not bad, not bad at all in fact. It's hard-cover, has all those nice smelling glossy pages and you can edit the photos and add some text. For a completely custom gift you spend the same amount of money you would on some thoughtless gift card. Alright, you: 1 other boyfriends: 0.

Every good gift does not have to be completely material per say. A single beautifully orchestrated date might be all you need. Don't just bring her to a nice restaurant, do something memorable. Ride a hot air balloon, go skydiving, sign her up for lessons or classes for something she's been interested in or dying to do. Not to sound corny but, an object can only last so long, a memory can be just about forever.

If both of you or even just she is into music consider a mix tape (CD). A well-designed mix tape always comes off thoughtful and memorable. Put songs that carry significance for you, them or both of you. Put things you know she likes, or you think she likes. There is nothing too exciting about a mix tape you get nothing out of and that only has songs you know you will like. It's to be expected that they won't like every song on it, but as long as you can get a few tunes spot on you're good.

These are just a few ideas, there are many many more out there, just actually think about it as opposed to doing it all last minute and falling for all the cliche trappings that come with these occasions. These kind of things really aren't that difficult if you simply put your mind to it.

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