He said, she said: Valentine’s Day gift guide

What should you get someone you have a crush on?

He said: If you aren't even dating yet, don't get them anything per se, unless you have a fantastic idea about something they really, really like. Just ensure that it'll be a pleasant surprise and it won't freak them out. I'd say get them an… offer. Coffee, dinner, what have you. If they're just a crush, don't worry about gifts – worry about establishing the relationship.

She said: It's tricky buying for someone who you just have a crush on. You don't want to come on too strong, but you also want to let the person know you're thinking about them. If you're a guy, maybe have some flowers delivered to the girl's house. If you're a girl, give him a super cheesy Valentine's Day card (you know, the ones we would hand out in elementary school).

What should you get someone you just started dating?

He said: I'd say stick to the classics. You're still in the young state, so the classics are cute… and cute is good. Cute is effective. Cute is what you shoot for. The chocolates, the roses, the new gold necklace... well not the last one, but you see what I'm saying. Throw in an original spin if you have the time and personalize it for him or her so it isn't just, "Meh, got you flowers and chocolate; can we make out now?" Make it meaningful, but keep it simple.

She said: If you've only been dating someone for a few months, your best bet is to go with the typical Valentine's Day "I love you" package, complete with a heart-shaped box full of chocolates and a giant stuffed animal. Girls, if you see something your guy might like, go ahead and get it for him, but don't feel like you have to be giving a Valentine's Day present. In fact, when it comes to a lot of couples, the girl won't get the guy anything for Valentine's Day. If you do want to get him something, give him a CD or a movie the two of you can watch together.

What should you get someone you've been dating a long time?

He said: Get the classics out of the way a few days beforehand. It's unexpected. Once you have the repeats out of the way, get him or her something really meaningful. Something special to them, just like you would a holiday or birthday present. I think this one-two combo could really pack a punch. (See what I did there?)

She said: Since it's been a long time, chances are you two are pretty serious. Guys, this Valentine's Day get your girl a nice piece of jewelry, possibly a heart-shaped necklace, or you could get her a gift card for a massage. For girls, this is a good time to get him concert tickets to see his favorite band.

What should you never get?

He said: Short list of this would be: bodily fluid, locks of hair, clothing that is too large (please check this so a street brawl doesn't start), items that are too soon (pets, jewelry, marriage license, joint bank account, etc), greeting cards with annoying songs attached to them, or bills for any of the nice items you bought for them.

She said: Under no circumstance should you give a girl something you picked up last minute at a gas station. A little teddy bear with a mug from the Kwik Star just won't do it. If you're scrambling to find something to give her at the last minute, go to the store and pick up a few of her favorite things, then make her dinner.