With Valentine’s Day this weekend and Mother’s Day fast approaching I want to make a little point to my other half - Please don’t buy me flowers. Don’t get me wrong I like flowers, especially a lovely (and inexpensive) bunch of daffodils or tulips (and of course lavender) but anything over £5 is just a waste of money in my opinion. There’s nothing more depressing than seeing a bunch of wilted flowers in a house and lets face it they all wilt after a few days! I’d much prefer something I can keep and enjoy!

This got me thinking, if I don’t want flowers, what do I want? This is what I came up with (in the same “price area” as a good bunch of flowers)…

1) Aromatherapy Associates - Bath & Shower Oil (£40)

Anyone who knows me, or has read this blog will know that I’m a big fan of Aromatherapy Associates, for me they’re little bottles of aromatherapy medicine and are always at the top of my wish list. In truth I’d be happy with anything from their bath and body range but my favourite has to be their Relax Deep Bath & Shower Oil, it turns any bath into a mind and body ritual experience.

2) Godiva - Chocolate covered strawberries (£13 per 350g)

Is there anything better than chocolate covered strawberries? I’m not so sure there is! And these special ones from Godiva are simply the best! I have high hopes for a box of these come Saturday morning. They’re pretty exclusive as you can only get them from Godiva shops in London, so obviously not readily available around the country. But next time you’re in London, I fully recommend you pop in to see what all the fuss is about.

3) Accessorize - Z for Accessorize (from £12)

This new(ish) range from Accessorize has really caught my eye. They’re gold plated and designed with semi-precious stones and gems. I’ve already treated myself to a few pieces from the range but a few more would certainly be greatly received. The price point is slightly higher than the usual Accessorize jewellery but still much cheaper than a bunch of flowers on Valentine’s Day. And of course a beautiful necklace or bracelet will last a lot longer than a bunch of flowers. The range is pretty and cool with an Ibiza edge, I can imagine layering the pieces up over a simple white t-shirt in the summer months.

4) Game of Thrones Season 4 DVD (£27)

Since Christmas my husband and I have been hooked by Game of Thrones! We watched season 1 and 2 in a few weeks and quickly followed that with season 3 but we’ve had to wait for season 4 as it’s not for sale until the 16th Feb. For anyone who’s watched GOT, you’ll know how addictive it is and how desperate I am to get my hands on the latest DVD in the series. After the tense and lets face it shocking end to season 3, I need to know what happens next!

5) Jo Malone - Red Roses Candle (£40)

When all else fails I’m always more than happy to receive a beautiful scented candle and my candle of choice at this time of year has to be Jo Malone’s Red Roses. The scent is beautiful and romantic, and transforms the atmosphere into a relaxing and calming area. Just what you need for a date night at home, snuggled up on the sofa with your other half and a good film.

Failing all of the above, I’d also be happy with a lie-in, breakfast in bed and a lovely, relaxing soak in the bath (with no interuptions from cute and well-meaning little people).

What do you want for Valentine’s Day or Mother’s Day?