THE shops are already overflowing with red roses, huge boxes of chocolates and as many cute teddy bears as anyone could cope with.

The paraphernalia that surrounds St Valentine's Day increases year on year and the pressure is on to spend. Before buying the latest ‘must-have’ take a moment to think about what you and your partner treasure in life. What makes them feel loved and appreciated?

Throwing money at a big ticket present doesn’t necessarily make it the right thing to buy. Anyone thinking about giving the latest cordless vacuum cleaner might like to think long and hard before taking that final step. Does your gift say what you want it to say?

Make this year your year to save

The best Valentine's gifts are simple things that express our feelings.

My top ten gift ideas are:

10. The gift of food, maybe chocolate dipped strawberries or a decorated cake?

9. A shrub or bulbs for the garden, which flower every year for long-lasting memories.

8. Turn the lights off, light the candles and enjoy a DVD that your other half gets to choose.

7. Make a single rose say it all.

6. Eat in, even if it’s a takeaway.

5. Customise something shop-bought with appliquéd hearts or pretty beads.

4. Knit something. A simple beanie will do.

3. Write something romantic in a book, on your message board or even on the wall of your shed!

2. Frame a photograph of a place which is special to you both.

1. Create a playlist, of the tunes that say everything you want to say.

And to avoid the rip-offs don’t buy flowers online, don’t eat out on the actual day and don’t be sucked in by the advertising.