What to Give Your New Flame for the Holidays

Winter is coming. And that means the holidays are coming. This includes Christmas and Chanukah, which leaves you with tons of gift shopping to do for family and friends. But as you're shopping for loved ones, what type of Christmas gift do you get for someone you just started dating?

After all, fall and winter are known as "cuffing season," which refers to how many of us find ways into relationships during the colder months and holidays. So, if you're getting into a relationship in November or early December, how do you approach the already-difficult task of gift shopping for your new boyfriend/girlfriend?

You probably don't want to break the bank on a new relationship, for two reasons: 1. You haven't been seeing each other long enough to justify spending a ridiculous amount of money, and 2. You don't want to pressure your significant other into spending just as much on you and/or scare the person away. If s/he thinks you're moving too fast, this could be the first and last holiday season you spend with this individual.

You don't want to seem too cheap, either. A lackluster Christmas gift could be a sign of things to come in the relationship, which could send your new flame running for the hills.

But take a deep breath -- we've got your back. Below are some tips for Christmas gift shopping that will help really make the holidays "the most wonderful time of the year."

• Make it an experience. 

  If you want to spend a little more than you probably should, use your money wisely. Spend it on something you can both enjoy, like a nice night out. Dinner, a show, a concert, a wine tasting -- any of these could make great Christmas gifts for new significant others. They show you're committed to doing fun things and that you're creative. If you want the relationship to go somewhere, you should actually go somewhere, right?
• Thoughtful can still be inexpensive. The number one rule of a relationship is to communicate well. If you listen when your partner talks, you'll probably come up with a great idea for a present. This can make gift shopping a lot easier, especially in crunch time. While walking around the mall, you may see something that reminds you of a conversation you and your partner had. The Christmas gift doesn't need to be anything groundbreaking -- just something to prove that you listen and care. She said she could use a pair of gloves? Get her a pair of gloves. He really likes that indie band? Get him their new album or a ticket to their next local show.
• Do it yourself. Want to really show how creative you are? Gather some supplies and make a DIY Christmas gift. This could save you money and show off your artistic talents. Also, nothing is sweeter than someone taking the time to physically make a gift for a boyfriend or girlfriend. Again, thoughtful doesn't necessarily mean expensive, and effort can shine bright in DIY presents.