The first date often makes us feel excited and nervous at the same time. We want to show the best of us and to make a good impression. On the other hand we don’t know much about the other person – it’s our first date. So choosing the right gift idea would not be an easy task.
If we are not sure how the other person will accept and interpret our first date gift, we should aim for smaller, more neutral and common presents. The more special gifts we should save for the next dates when we know that the other person is really interested in us
In this post, we’ve added a mix of both unique and unusual first date gift ideas, along with classic, timeless options. Whether you’re looking for something different or traditional, we’ve got you covered!
Unique and Unusual First Date Gift Ideas
Origami Flowers
Origami flowers are a unique and thoughtful gift that combines the beauty of art with the timeless tradition of giving flowers. Made from paper, each fold represents a piece of craftsmanship, making these flowers long-lasting and symbolic. Unlike real flowers that wither, origami flowers can be kept forever and can serve as a constant reminder of the special moment. Plus, they can be created in tons of shapes and colors to fit any occasion or personality.
When it comes to a first date, origami flowers are a fantastic unique gift. They’re not just a simple bouquet – they show thoughtfulness and creativity. Giving these flowers combines the charm of traditional flower gifting with a fresh twist. It’s a great conversation starter, and the effort behind creating them is bound to impress!
Ube (Purple Yam) Cookies
Ube cookies are made from purple yam, a popular root vegetable in Filipino cuisine, known for its vibrant color and subtly sweet, nutty flavor. These cookies have a soft, chewy texture with a slight vanilla and coconut undertone, offering a unique and delicious twist on traditional treats. The striking purple hue makes them a visual delight, adding an exotic touch to your date. Their distinct flavor is sure to spark conversation and leave a lasting impression, making them a memorable gift idea for a first date.
Tea Bags with Hidden Messages
These tea bags reveal a special message on the tag or inside the wrapper, making each sip a delightful surprise. A thoughtful and cozy gift for a first date, especially if your date enjoys warm drinks and meaningful gestures.
Beeswax Candles Gift
Beeswax candles make a unique and thoughtful first date gift, offering a natural, gentle honey-like scent that creates a warm and cozy atmosphere. They are non-toxic, biodegradable, and burn longer than regular candles, making them a sustainable and meaningful choice. Gifting a beeswax gift on a first date shows thoughtfulness and an appreciation for eco-friendly living – perfect for leaving a lasting impression.
Curious fact
Interestingly, studies have shown that gifts on first dates can influence perceptions of generosity and thoughtfulness, but overly extravagant gifts might create discomfort, as they could be interpreted as trying too hard or creating an imbalance in expectations.
Inspirational cards
Inspirational cards that offer a meaningful message for each day are a unique and heartfelt gift for a first date. Imagine giving your date a beautifully designed deck of cards, each featuring an uplifting quote, motivational thought, or positive affirmation they can reflect on daily. This thoughtful gesture not only shows your creativity but also encourages them to carry a piece of positivity into their everyday life. It’s a gift that keeps giving, sparking joy long after the date is over, and serves as a reminder of the thoughtful connection you’re building from the very start.
Classic First Date Gift Ideas
Box of Chocolates
Indulge the person you will be dating with delicious sweets to show your affection and make a good first impression. There is a big variety of luxurious and high-quality boxes of chocolates on the market – with impressive-looking wrappings and various flavors. Our chocolate gift suggestion is cocoa-dusted chocolate truffles in a cat-themed gift tin.
For more classic chocolate gift ideas, you could consider a beautifully packaged assortment of artisanal chocolates, a box filled with decadent chocolate-covered strawberries, or even a handpicked selection of premium chocolate bars with exotic fillings like sea salt, caramel, or espresso. These thoughtful, indulgent treats will be sure to delight and leave a lasting impression on your date.
Exotic Plant in a Pot
Instead of a typical bouquet, an exotic potted flower like an orchid, anthurium, or desert rose makes for a unique and meaningful gift. It symbolizes growth, beauty, and the potential of a budding relationship, making it a thoughtful choice for a first date. These plants offer lasting beauty, unlike cut flowers, and provide an opportunity to nurture something together. To explore more exotic plant options, check out our detailed guide on Exotic Plant Gift Ideas.
Mini liquor bottle
A small but stylish gift, mini liquor bottles come in unusual flavors and premium varieties, making them a great way to share a unique tasting experience. Perfect for a fun, lighthearted first date, adding a touch of adventure to the evening. Our mini liquor first date gift suggestion is Baileys Red Velvet (50ml).
Wine Gift
Bringing a bottle of wine as a gift on a first date is a classy and thoughtful gesture that sets a warm and welcoming tone. A carefully chosen wine, like a light and approachable Pinot Noir or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, shows effort while remaining versatile enough to suit various tastes. Choose a bottle with a story, like a locally produced wine or one from a renowned vineyard, to spark conversation. Pairing the wine with elegant and subtle packaging, like a reusable wine tote or a simple ribbon, elevates the gift while keeping it understated. This thoughtful gesture can make a lasting impression without overwhelming the date.
Handmade Gift
Handmade gifts are a great way to show you care on a first date. You could craft a small piece of artwork, like a sketch or painting, create a personalized playlist with songs that remind you of the person, or even make something simple like a hand-painted mug or a knitted scarf. These thoughtful gestures are personal and show effort, making your gift both unique and meaningful without going over the top.
Things you should consider when choosing a first date gift:
1. Choose something small but thoughtful – we can show our affection with a nice present, but this should not make the recipient feel uncomfortable
2. Avoid overly romantic and intimate gifts – save those for later after you relationship has deepen enough
3. Get something shareable – this way the person won’t feel that obligated and uncomfortable, and you can have your common shared experience that can make you closer.
4. Don’t give the present right after you met – spend some time and look for the right moment, maybe after you already had some conversation and have know each other a little bit more.
5. If you are creative person and make art or crafts – give them something that represents your work – this way it will be a more neutral, and at the same thoughtful present.
If you opt for the timeless gesture of giving flowers on a first date, explore the Symbolic Meaning of Popular and Unusual Flowers to convey the perfect message.
