Procrastinators still have one day to buy a gift
If you haven’t gotten your sweetheart a Valentine’s gift yet, don’t despair.
Plenty of last-minute gifts can be found around Athens, for him or for her.
From Her to Him
If your beau needs a new wallet, check out Masada downtown on Clayton Street.
Their leather wallets run from about $40 to 50. They also sell jackets and shoes.
“The Ugg slippers are also really popular,” said manager Jody Wilbanks. “Guys would never think to buy slippers for themselves.”
For girls, Wilbanks recommends the Hobo brand bags and clutches, which run from about $72 to 125.
If your gentleman is happiest with a putter in his hand, show him your affection by presenting him with a gift certificate for a round or two at the University golf course.
Eighteen holes for a student on a weekday would set you back $33.50, and $36 for the weekend.
“Some people have come in and gotten golf lessons for Valentine’s Day,” said Matt Peterson, head golf professional at the course. He said lessons start at $45 for 45 minutes.
If you think your man already putts perfectly, you could pick him up a golf bag for about $150, a golf shirt for $40 to 60, or a University logo belt starting at about $40.
Sarah Meier, a senior from Pickerington, Ohio, recommended the gift pack for men from Victoria’s Secret.
“It’s a combination kit that has cologne, body wash and after-shave,” Meier said. “It’s the men’s fragrance called ‘Very Sexy for Him.’”
The package costs $45 from Victoria’s Secret, located in Georgia Square Mall.
If you had something a little cheaper in mind, consider boxer shorts from Old Navy. Since you’re running a little late, the store’s Valentine’s Day boxers are 50 percent off of the original $8.50 price tag.
And never underestimate the value of a sentimental gift. Try making him a homemade coupon book, with treats like a 20 minute back rub or a home-cooked meal.
From Him to Her
Gentlemen, too, have many options when it comes to bounty for their lovers.
A foolproof idea is flowers. It may sound cliche, but it never fails. There are several florists in Athens who cater to the needs of last-minute gift-hunting guys.
One of these is Flowerland on Prince Avenue, owned by sisters Deborah Fuller and Janice Hudgins.
Fuller said deliveries can be arranged as late as today. By that point, guys need to go to the store to pick up a pre-made bouquet.
“We’ll have lots of things made extra for them,” said Fuller, who recommends a tulip arrangement or roses. “Roses will always be the number one seller – they are true to heart and guys were raised to believe in roses.”
A dozen roses with baby’s breath and greenery in a vase at Flowerland is $65.
Always Always Flowers and Athens Florist, both on Baxter Street, also will be ready to arrange bouquets for last-minute guys.
When it comes to jewelry, Encore on Clayton Street is a boutique with some inexpensive finds.
“Guys can expect to find some nice beaded earrings or a necklace for anywhere from $12 to 44,” said owner John Widmer.
“Those who want to go a little further will buy a pair of Seven jeans or a nice top.”
Another idea for your girl is a gift certificate for a massage. The spa at the Foundry Inn on Dougherty Street includes a gift bag with the purchase of a gift certificate. Though it’s booked on Tuesday, there is time available the rest of the week.
You could even go with her – the Foundry Spa is one place that offers couples massages. It costs $160 for a Swedish massage for two.
But guys, you don’t have to shell out all your bucks for your girlfriend. Make her a CD with your favorite songs, put a photo of the two of you in a frame, or take her on a picnic. Just don’t forget a card.



