What a gift can mean for your relationship

No matter if you’ve been in a relationship for years or just a few months it’s second nature to read into the gifts you are receiving from your partner. The old adage “it’s the thought that counts” couldn’t be truer than when it comes to giving in a relationship. It doesn’t matter how much something costs or what others think. The best gift one can give their loved one is something personal, something that holds meaning or something that represents a shared experience. Now that that’s out of the way, here are some common gifts exchanged between partners and their perceived meanings.

Candles

No, it doesn’t necessarily mean your space has an odor. Candles are generally seen as an easy, last minute gift that doesn’t require much effort. Many people may interpret this as a sign that a relationship has reached its expiration. Though there may be some truth to that interpretation, studies have shown that the olfactory memory can be extremely powerful in evoking past emotions associated with a particular smell. Some might say a candle can be the most romantic gift of all if it reminds the recipient of an exceptionally significant event, assuming of course that was the giver’s intention.

Flowers

Flowers are often given for a myriad of reasons in a multitude of different contexts. People from all over the world have been giving each other flowers throughout history. The tradition dates back to the ancient Greeks and Egyptians, and possibly even further than that. Whether given as an apology, a special occasion or just because, flowers themselves have a wide variety of meanings. That said, the giver may not necessarily be aware that red roses symbolize love or that daffodils represent starting over so try not to overanalyze and just enjoy the thoughtful gesture.

Jewelry

When someone receives jewelry from their significant other, it is usually perceived as meaning one of two things. The first, he screwed up and now he’s trying to buy back your love. Or the more appealing, he really loves you because he was willing to buy such an expensive gift. While each of these can be valid conclusions, neither one strikes a particularly romantic chord. You might be thinking, what can be more romantic than love? Not to be the bearer of bad news, but expense does not always equate to love. However, some jewelry, such as a promise ring, a claddagh ring or an engagement ring can symbolize something much greater and signify a vow of everlasting love.

Office Supplies

Run. Only kidding. There is a reason the one-year anniversary gift is paper. Paper represents starting fresh and can also be a symbol of delicacy; it is easily torn after all. While pens and stationery may not seem all that heartfelt, this type of gift certainly can have a deeper meaning than simply making sure you have something to write with. Before telephones and the internet, the only means of communication from a distance was the written word. Some of the most beautiful sentiments were expressed by putting pen to paper. You may not be Lord Byron or John Keats but taking the time to express yourself in writing can be that much more substantial than voicing things aloud.

Money has long been used an indicator of the depth of someone’s feelings; but in reality, spending money is easy. Finding a truly meaningful gift can be much more challenging. Nonetheless, it’s important to remember that not all gifts have a hidden meaning. Sometimes a candle is just a candle, or a pen is just a pen. Maybe he remembers you saying you wish you could enjoy a nice bubble bath with scented candles, a glass of wine and a good book. She might have heard you say you are always losing your pens at the office. Every relationship is different and only you can decide what a gift means to you.