Too early in relationship to buy a gift?

Feb 08, 2009

To gift or not to gift...
by: Doctor B.

Great Question Cheri...

There exists a rule of thumb that says it's not til after 5 dates that casual dating becomes DATING dating.

Meaning that up until that 5th date you aren't required to buy gifts, end the relationship face to face, disclose other romantic relationships, etc...

But... Who cares about rules of thumb. They are a guideline at best, and certainly aren't universal truths.

You already know the right answer, because you hint to in your question. You say you "want" to get him something, which means you probably like the guy. But, you don't want to freak him out because you've only been on a handful of dates.

So, the perfect gift for this stage of a relationship, like you say in your post, is "something small". You want it to seem like you sort of stumbled across the gift, it reminded you of him, and it wasn't expensive, so you went ahead and got it for him for Valentine's day.

Anything more impressive or elaborate at this point might freak him out, and it will seem like you're trying too hard. Also, you always have to consider the fact that he may think it's too early to get you something, and one way giving becomes more awkward the more extravagant the gift.

So, long story short, go with what you are already leaning towards. Get him something cute and inexpensive, that makes it obvious you didn't feel required to buy something, but that you came across something too perfect to pass up.

Hope this helps, and wishes for a happy Valentines day.

Too early in relationship to buy a gift?

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Too early in relationship to buy a gift?