Valentine's Day Gift Guide: What's a Girl to Give a Guy?

Editor's Note: This article originally ran last February, but we are re-running it as Valentine's Day approaches on Tuesday.

This Feb. 14, my honey and I have imposed a strict $15 gift limit to help us reserve resources for our spring nuptials. And, until recently, I was pretty sure that I got the better end of that deal.

My fiance can easily find quite a lot for me for 15 bucks. I get anxious just trying to figure out exactly how much chocolate, how many tulips or what type of Chinese food that can buy. I'm fairly confident he can come up with a nice combination of all three if he budgets wisely.

For him on the other hand, I've had trouble coming up with any ideas. What kind of gift can you get a guy for so little money? And, even if you have no such financial restraints, are there any Valentine's Day ideas that haven't been completely overdone?

To my surprise, there are. After scouring St. Louis Park's retail scene for a great gift, I've come up with a few ways to pamper your guy — whether you're on a budget or not — this Valentine's Day:

• A Man-icure (yes, a manicure for men) is just $8.50 at the 's . If only my fiance had a moustache, I could almost afford to add on the Moustache Trim service for an additional $7. There are plenty of other manly spa offerings here, too, from neckline and eyebrow hair removal ($12) to beard trims ($12) to a haircut, shampoo and hot towel facial treatment ($30+). And though this plasma-screen-laden salon is not your typical grandfatherly barbershop, the customer service is reminiscent of a bygone era—shoe shines are complimentary.
• If your man is more of a do-it-yourself haircut guy like mine, then a gift certificate to or a gift from might be closer to what you need. The knowledgeable clerks at this SLP specialty beer shop are sure to help you find a fun new brew for your Valentine to try, but he might just appreciate it more if you take him to select his own gift from the near-750 beers here.
• One of my favorite SLP spots, Guild Collective, has just recently added to its curated selection of men's products. The Excelsior Boulevard boutique is now carrying Mancave Soapworks, which make great gifts for men who enjoy finer things, or for the simple man who is eco-minded. The handmade line includes shaving soaps, mugs, brushes and aftershave, all crafted with organic and natural ingredients. Scents include Commando (unscented), Sedona, and Bay Rum. Also, Guild is holding a trunk show this Saturday that will pay off for those of you who are last-minute shoppers.
  

It's a good thing I'll be out of town this weekend, or I'm pretty sure I'd blow my limit by picking up something for both myself and my Valentine at the Guild trunk show. You'll have to indulge for me.

Happy Valentine's shopping!