35 Sentimental Gifts for Your Girlfriend, From Her Birthday to Holidays

She already knows you love her, but a little reminder won't hurt.
Collage of gift ideas for girlfriend: custom night light, beaded bracelet, personalized mug, heart-shaped jewelry box
Photo: : MagicWoOod, Little Words Project, Uncommon Goods, Urban Outfitters
emily rumsey the knot editor
by
Emily Rumsey
emily rumsey the knot editor
Emily Rumsey
Assistant Commerce Updates Editor
  • Emily helps maintain and update e-commerce content for The Knot
  • Before joining The Knot Worldwide, Emily worked as a website editor and manager for The Paleo Diet®
  • Emily holds two bachelor's degrees in Journalism and International Affairs with a Chinese minor
Updated Aug 08, 2024
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Ever noticed how your girlfriend's love language boils down to spoiling her in every which way? Physical touch means constant hugs, kisses and back massages, while acts of service translate to "passenger princess" treatment. But perhaps the most prevalent: receiving gifts. Sentimental gifts for your girlfriend, whether for special occasions or as a surprise, are bound to result in a little spoiling of your own.

From thoughtful birthday gifts for your girlfriend to a lil' something to celebrate Girlfriend Appreciation Day—and all the bigger known holidays in between—you've come to the right place to find the best ways to pamper your lady.

We understand shopping for your girlfriend is a tricky task, especially if you're looking for a gift for a new relationship. Our advice? Start by considering her interests and hobbies. For instance, a custom embosser is a good gift for a reader and a monogrammed make-up bag is clever for an aspiring beauty influencer. Next, look back on your relationship, especially if you're looking for an anniversary gift for your girlfriend. If you first bonded over your love of music, a mixed tape with your shared favorite songs will be a sweet tribute to your love story. And if you're really stumped, choose an experience gift so you can spend more quality time together.

Ready for some more gift-spiration? Explore our handpicked selection of the best gifts for your girlfriend below!

1. Sentimental Star Map

Personalized couples star map sentimental gift for girlfriend
Photo: Twinkle In Time

Topping the list is one of the most thoughtful gifts for your girlfriend out there: an image of the night sky on the night you went on your first date. The star map reflects the time and location of your choosing and comes personalized with the date and coordinates. You can also add your own personal message underneath—if you're not sure what to write, let our favorite love quotes for her inspire you.

2. Birth Flower Necklace

Birth flower personalized necklace sentimental gift for girlfriend
Photo: Made by Mary

Picking out a jewelry gift for your girlfriend that represents something unique about her is always a good idea. This dainty birth flower pendant from Made by Mary is available in 12 designs—one for every month of the year—in silver, gold or rose gold. They make especially great gifts to give your girlfriend on her birthday allowing you to celebrate her individuality in style.

3. Spinning Heart Messenger

Spinning Heart Messenger sentimental gift for your girlfriend
Photo: Uncommon Goods

Looking for a sweet gift for your long-distance girlfriend? Look no further! This charming spinning heart messenger connects to an app where you can send her a short note. Once she receives the message or image, the heart on the box will spin, prompting her to open the lid and reveal what's on the screen. Trust us, it's much sweeter than a simple text message on her phone.

4. Romantic Custom Night-Light

Romantic custom night light sentimental gift for girlfriend
Photo: MagicWoOod

Brighten her nights with something more than just your love. This wooden box, adorned with hearts and three personalized lines of text like "I love you," emits a warm and customized glow when a candle is placed inside, adding a personal touch to any room. Whether it's day or night and you're together or apart, she won't be able to resist lighting up this charming keepsake.

5. Preserved Roses

Preserved roses sentimental gift for girlfriend
Photo: Rosepops

This thoughtful gift combines the timeless elegance of roses with clever modernity to ensure your affection blooms eternally. The white heart-shaped hat box is filled with six to seven preserved roses that'll maintain their beauty for many months to come. The best part, though? When she first pulls the ribbons to open the box, the roses will pop up to greet her. They're the perfect gift to show your affection for any occasion—and they offer expedited shipping for any last-minute shoppers.

6. Couple's Activity Book

Couple's fun activity date book sentimental gift for girlfriend from Target
Photo: Target

The Adventure Challenge's Couples Edition isn't just a book—it's a promise of unforgettable experiences together. Filled with creative scratch-off date ideas like cooking an apple pie blindfolded or recreating your grandparents' very first date, it encourages you to step out of your comfort zone and create memories that'll last a lifetime. Plus, there's space to add a photo and notes about your time, serving as a keepsake to cherish in the future. (You can even upgrade to the couples camera bundle to help with all the selfies.)

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7. Unique Birthday Candle

Personalized birthdate candle sentimental gift for girlfriend
Photo: Birthdate Candles

For your girlfriend who loves checking her horoscope daily, the Birthdate Candle makes a perfect gift. Harnessing astrology, numerology and tarot, this candle crafts a unique scent tailored to her birthday. What's more, each candle comes with a fun analysis of people born on that day on the label, adding an extra layer of personalized charm. It's an innovative and creative birthday gift idea sure to delight your girlfriend.

8. Super Cute Pajama Set

Super cute pajama set sentimental gift for girlfriend
Photo: Eberjey

Indulge your girlfriend with the ultimate in cozy luxury: a pair of Eberjey's finest pajamas. This tank top and shorts are as soft as a cloud, with an added touch of charm from the ivory embroidered trim. Whether she's binge-watching her favorite shows or sipping tea in bed, this pajama set will have her feeling like a queen.

9. Silk Sleep Mask

Silk sleep mask sentimental gift for girlfriend
Photo: Clementine Sleepwear

Complete your queen's sleep ensemble with a luxurious silk sleep mask. Crafted from the finest silk, this eye mask combines elegance with practicality, guaranteeing a tranquil night's sleep worthy of royalty. Whether she's catching some Z's mid-flight or enjoying a relaxing nap at home, this mask provides optimal light-blocking and comfort, all while helping to prevent wrinkles around her eyes.

10. Delightful Heated Slippers

Fluffy slippers thoughtful holiday gift idea for girlfriend
Photo: Warmies

You don't have to break the bank to show your girl a little extra love. These slippers are a small but thoughtful gift for your girlfriend that she'll probably never want to take off—except for when she's heating them in the microwave or cooling them in the freezer. Yep: These magic slippers can be heated up for warm comfort or chilled for cooling relief whenever she needs it. Oh, and did we mention they're lavender-scented? We don't blame you for wanting to snag a pair for yourself, too!

11. Wooden Book Nook

Wooden book nook sentimental gift for girlfriend
Photo: Uncommon Goods

If there's one thing you've learned about your girlfriend, it's that her books are sacred territory—no bent pages, no broken spines and definitely no greasy fingerprints allowed. Now, you can help her maintain her prized collection in pristine condition while adding a touch of organization to her bedside with this innovative book nook organizer. Featuring designated spots for holding her place in the book and storing her reading glasses, drink of choice and phone, everything she needs for diving into her latest romantasy or thriller is within arm's reach. Plus, it comes with a personalized bookplate stamp for that extra special touch.

12. Custom Book Embosser

Custom book embosser sentimental gift for girlfriend
Photo: PickledStamps

Here's a creative gift idea for your girlfriend, straight from the mind of my own significant other: the custom book embosser. With this unique tool, she can mark her favorite reads with a personalized stamp, proudly declaring them as part of her personal library. You have the freedom to choose any words and design for an embosser that's special to her.

13. Photo Reel Viewer

Vintage-style photo reel viewer sentimental gift for girlfriend
Photo: Uncommon Goods

This sentimental gift for your girlfriend brings on all of the nostalgia. It's a retro photo reel viewer filled with sweet snapshots from different stages of your relationship. All you have to do is choose your favorite memories to create a reel to put in the viewer, before gifting it to your other half. Perfect for new and long-term relationships alike, this super-thoughtful gift is sure to give her the warm fuzzies.

14. Fill-in-the-Blank Book

Fill-in-the-blank book sentimental gift for girlfriend
Photo: Amazon

While a card may express sentiments temporarily, a hardcover book transforms your love into a timeless keepsake. With its durable cover and refined pages, this fill-in-the-blank book provides an opportunity to express your feelings with lively prompts, ensuring a lasting gesture of affection. Whether you're aiming to express your love on her birthday or Valentine's Day, this small gift for your girlfriend is the perfect way to do so.

15. Romantic Beaded Bracelet

"Love you" friendship beaded bracelet gift for best friend from Little Words Project
Photo: Little Words Project

This delicate accessory not only adds a touch of elegance to her outfit but also serves as a constant reminder of your affection. With its charming beaded design and heartfelt message—"love you,"—this bracelet symbolizes the depth of your relationship. Whether it's for a birthday, holiday or just because, this meaningful gift for your girlfriend will surely make her smile and feel cherished every time she wears it.

16. Stained Glass Jewelry Box

Heart stained glass jewelry box sentimental gift for girlfriend
Photo: Urban Outfitters

This adorable jewelry box not only provides a stylish way for your girlfriend to organize her favorite accessories but also adds a touch of whimsy to her vanity or dresser. Its heart-shaped design and stained glass construction make it a delightful addition to any room decor. Perfect for storing earrings, rings or other small trinkets, this jewelry box will remind her of your love every time she reaches for her favorite pieces—some of which you probably gifted her.

17. Scratch Off Movie Poster

Scratch-off movie poster sentimental gift for girlfriend
Photo: Uncommon Goods

Show your girlfriend you cherish life's simple pleasures as long as she's by your side with this interactive poster. Featuring 100 classics like Rocky, Toy Story and The Notebook, each viewing allows you to scratch off to reveal a fun graphic related to the movie. Whether you're planning a cozy night in or a movie marathon weekend, this poster adds an element of excitement, making it the perfect gift to enjoy quality time with your loved one—and it makes it way easier to agree on what to watch.

18. Extra-Soft Blanket

Extra-soft blanket sentimental gift for girlfriend
Photo: Unhide

Finding the perfect gift for your girlfriend doesn't have to be complicated. Consider this fur-like throw blanket if she enjoys sleeping in on weekends or lounging on the sofa. It's available in three sizes and a variety of muted colors to complement her interior and cuddling preferences. With over 2,000 five-star reviews, you don't have to take our word for its super-soft feel and style though—see for yourself!

19. Favorite Hobby Mug

Favorite hobby mug gift for your girlfriend
Photo: Uncommon Goods

Embrace your girlfriend's favorite hobby with this charming personalized mug. Whether she's an artist, yogi, hiker or avid reader, she'll delight in seeing her likeness depicted in a whimsical illustration. Select from a variety of design and customization options, including hairstyles, clothing choices and even eyeglasses, to achieve the perfect look. It makes a cute gift for your girlfriend, particularly if you live together and she's constantly searching for a clean mug that's exclusively hers.

20. Self-Care Tea Bundle

Self-care tea bundle sentimental gift for girlfriend
Photo: Leaves of Leisure

This gift set is an ideal Mother's Day gift for your girlfriend, showing her how much you value her well-being and comfort. It comes with a zesty green tea recommended to enjoy during a soothing bath and a ginger peppermint tea perfect for the colder months. Whether she's unwinding after a long day of parenting or enjoying a cozy weekend morning before the kids are awake, these aromatic blends offer a soothing escape.

21. Smart Indoor Garden

Click & Grow sentimental gift for girlfriend
Photo: Click and Grow

Surprise your girlfriend with a convenient take on indoor gardening with the Click and Grow Indoor Smart Garden. This innovative device lets her easily grow her favorite herbs, vegetables and flowers right at home, even if she lacks a green thumb, thanks to its automated light, water and nutrient system. It's the ideal gift to liven up her living space and enhance homemade dinners with fresh ingredients.

22. Cute Measuring Spoons

Cute measuring spoons sentimental gift for girlfriend
Photo: Amazon

If your girlfriend's home and personality are as vibrant as her spirit, she'll adore these measuring spoons. The unique set is designed to look like a cactus in a pot to add a playful touch to her kitchen essentials. Crafted from high-quality porcelain, each spoon is not only functional but also stylish, making cooking and baking even more enjoyable. Whether she's a seasoned chef or an aspiring foodie, these whimsical measuring spoons are sure to bring a smile to her face and charm to her kitchen.

23. Sweet Treats Subscription

Sweet treats and tasty snacks subscription box sentimental gift for girlfriend
Photo: Universal Yums

Appeal to your girlfriend's sweet tooth with this cool candy subscription from Universal Yums. Every month, she'll be introduced to new treats from various countries worldwide—including Germany, the Czech Republic and Indonesia—for a tasty gift that may also inspire her wanderlust. All you have to do is choose the size of the box along with the subscription duration (one, three, six or 12 months), before picking the first location for her to taste. Be warned: These sweets are so good, you'll probably have to beg her to share them with you.

24. Keepsake Photo Book

Keepsake photo album sentimental gift for your girlfriend
Photo: PikPerfect

A custom photo book is one of the most thoughtful gift ideas for your girlfriend and is an excellent opportunity to put your favorite memories together in one place to showcase your love. If you enjoy traveling as a pair, PikPerfect offers a variety of travel photo books (from large flatlay albums to smaller books), all digitally printed and professionally bound for a sleek finish. You'll have tons of fun picking out your best snapshots and she'll have tons of fun reminiscing about each and every one of them.

25. Romantic Love Coupons

Romantic couples coupons sentimental gift for girlfriend
Photo: Personalization Mall

It's easy to settle into the same old routine, especially if you've been dating for a while. Shake things up by gifting your girlfriend this set of personalized love coupons. It includes 12 "vouchers" customized with a short message she can use to get a reward, like breakfast in bed, exclusive control of the TV remote or a night off from doing the dishes. Feel free to throw in some fun ones too, like taking her shopping or dining in her favorite restaurant—your imagination is the limit! It'll make a fun stocking stuffer or a sweet addition to a larger gift for her birthday or Valentine's Day.

26. Romantic Mapmaking Class

Couple's personalized mapmaking class sentimental gift for girlfriend
Photo: Uncommon Goods

One of our favorite girlfriend gift ideas is an experience you can enjoy together as a team. There are so many awesome Uncommon Experiences to choose from, including virtual classes that are perfect for two people. Our pick? This romantic mapmaking class that comes with a cartography kit for you and your boo. It's a fun and thoughtful gift that's guaranteed to get you chatting about all the key moments in your relationship so far.

27. Watercolor Pet Portrait

Personalized watercolor pet portrait
Photo: DrawYourPortrait

Consider this cute personalized gift for your girlfriend if she's the type who puts her pet above all else. Your S.O. might just tear up when she sees the one-of-a-kind portrait of her pup. Choose from a print, framed print or wrapped canvas in a range of sizes to suit your budget and your girlfriend's living space.

28. Symbolic Elephant Bracelet

Elephant beaded bracelet meaningful jewelry sentimental gift for girlfriend
Photo: Fahlo

There's nothing better than a gift that gives back, and this beaded elephant-themed bracelet is a small gift for your girlfriend that's big on meaning. The jewelry comes with the details of a wild elephant she can keep track of, like the animal's name, age, picture and life story. Even better, a percentage of the bracelet's proceeds is donated to Save the Elephants, a conservation charity based in Kenya.

29. A Global Experience Voucher

Tinggly global experience voucher sentimental gift for girlfriend
Photo: Tinggly

Treat your girlfriend to the gift of unforgettable memories with an experience voucher from Tinggly. With a curated collection of hundreds of unique and thrilling experiences to choose from, she can indulge in everything from romantic getaways to adventurous activities—and you can even join her. Best of all, the voucher can be delivered instantly via email, making it perfect for any last-minute shoppers who want to present a heartfelt gift to their girlfriend, no matter how late in the game they are.

30. Love Letter in a Bottle

Personalized message in a bottle for girlfriend
Photo: Personalization Mall

Meaningful gift ideas for your girlfriend don't always warrant a major splurge. Keep things simple and speak from the heart with this gorgeous love letter in a bottle. It comes printed on parchment paper and rolled up in a glass bottle with silver confetti for a fun touch. If you don't want to compose your own poem, you can choose from several sweet verses to tell her how you feel. Trust us, she'll be so moved when you present her with this on her birthday or any other special occasion.

31. Mixtape Wall Art

Customized mix tape wall art
Photo: Uncommon Goods

Here's a sweet and sentimental gift idea for your girlfriend that'll show her just how in tune you two are. This cool piece of wall art looks just like a mixtape and can be customized with the names of up to three music tracks and artists, like a song you always sing together in the car or one that automatically puts you in the mood for romance. Choose from five funky colors for a unique gift that expresses your love and reflects your shared tastes in music.

32. Metallic Stanley Cup

Metallic Stanley cup sentimental gift for girlfriend
Photo: Stanley

While a Stanley Cup might not be the first thing that comes to mind for a girlfriend's gift, The Quencher is actually a trendy and practical choice for partners who enjoy both adventure and relaxation. This tumbler keeps her drinks hot or cold on the go, with a sleek design and durable construction perfect whether she's hiking or running errands. It can even be custom laser-engraved with her monogram, a short message or cute clip art.

33. Noise Cancelling Headphones

Noise cancelling headphones sentimental gift for girlfriend
Photo: Bose

Looking for a cool gift for your girlfriend? Your search ends with these splurge-worthy noise-canceling headphones from Bose. The sleek and stylish headphones not only deliver premium sound quality but also block out unwanted background noise, allowing her to immerse herself fully in her music, podcasts or audiobooks. It's quite the thoughtful Christmas or Hannukah gift for your girlfriend that you have time to save up for now.

34. Rhode Lip Case

Rhode lip case sentimental gift for girlfriend
Photo: Rhode

Here's a gift your girlfriend will love and be pleasantly surprised you thought of—well, sort of. This innovative silicone bubble case from popular brand Rhode keeps her lip treatment on hand, ensuring she's always prepared for quick touch-ups. Soon, she'll be taking mirror selfies just like Hailey Bieber.

35. LEGO Flowers

LEGO flowers sentimental gift for girlfriend
Photo: LEGO

Who says LEGOs are just for kids? Imagine spending an afternoon laughing and creating memories as you assemble these vibrant blooms with your girlfriend, each one a testament to your love and creativity. From daisies to snapdragons, this LEGO set of "wildflowers" will remind her of all the fun and love you share every time she looks at it.

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