Approximately 51 percent of the 2013 Valentine’s Day gifts given were candy and another 37 percent were flowers, according to the National Retail Federation. Don’t be another statistic this year. Do something different for Valentine’s Day and create some new life-long memories.

Make It New Again

You and your partner have been together for several years and each year, gift giving has become more routine. Before you start giving each other K-Mart and Home Depot gift cards, try something new. Get out of your comfort zone a bit and do something unexpected. It could be as simple as cooking a meal or exciting as bungee jumping from a hot air balloon.

Be a Tourist Again

Line up a day full of tourist activities in your own home town, suggests Your Tango. There are probably things you haven’t done for years, if ever. Hit the quirky little markets. Have lunch at the corner bistro. Have someone take your photo in front of that bronze WWI statue. Go to a museum. There are many reasons why you both chose the city in which you live. Spend the day doing what tourists do and revisit some of those favorite landmarks.

Help Someone Else Have a Happy Valentine’s Day

Frequently, local care centers house couples who have been together for many years. They may no longer be able to get out to celebrate. Talk with care center administrators and find a couple who would appreciate your efforts. Bring them a catered meal served at a private table in their dining area. Decorate the table with a Valentine’s flower delivery. You will create Valentine’s memories for yourself and your partner as well as the couple you’ve sponsored.

Spa Day for Two

Treat you and your partner with a couple’s massage, suggests Examiner. Find a Hawaiian Lomi Lomi practitioner. This technique from the ancient Polynesians works on the mind and body. It is often a lengthy, relaxing process with several steps. If you don’t have a Lomi Lomi practitioner available, look for aroma therapy massage or hot stone massage, both equally relaxing.

Push Your Envelope

Sometimes mutual encouragement is needed for both of you to step out of your own comfort zones. Find something you have talked about doing but just haven’t had the courage to do yet. Try a night of karaoke. Ride the big Ferris wheel together on the boardwalk. Doing something together that’s a little challenging creates memories of a successful adventure, no matter how big or small. It’s another sign of how you’ve grown together as a couple.

Words are Powerful

Celebrating Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to mean an expensive night out. A dinner at home for two can be a nice change for a busy couple. In that case, write a poem or love letter to your partner and slip it under their dinner plate. Write little love notes and place them throughout the house. Hide short notes that say “I Love You” where your partner will find them during the next week. This keeps the Valentine’s Day sentiments flowing throughout the week.

Traditional Still Works

Flowers and candy are still a good option for Valentine’s Day, especially if delivered in a special way. Have them delivered to your partner’s work or school. Leave them on the car seat to find. Have someone deliver them to her while she’s out walking with the baby. Catch her off guard and the traditional gifts will take on a new surprise meaning.