That time of year is closing in on us again, the love fest that is Valentine's Day.

And while some of us completely dread it, it can really be the sweetest day of the year if you put in a little bit of effort to make things personal. 

Now, before we say anything else (and give males across the country heart attacks) we must state that there is absolutely nothing wrong with buying flowers and chocolate, it's just that people allergic to pollen and lactose need love too, okay?

Here's the best eleven we could think of. Enjoy.

1. Knitwear from Liadain Aiken

Liadain Aiken is a knitter supreme, who spends her time fashioning the softest, most creative (and most importantly, warm) knitted goods.

Everything from jumpers, to hats to hot water bottle covers – Aiken has you sussed.

2. Retro and/or vintage surprises from Anonymous

Anonymous is a store on Francis Street specialising in retro and vintage goods.

Pick up some cool furniture, art or trinkets and stray from the usual flowers and chocolate. 

3. A hamper full of Love Heart sweets from Hampers & Co

Because who doesn't want a big box of sweets delivered to their door?

4. Cooking classes with The Soul Food Company

Is your significant other a foodie, forever longing to hone their skills? Or maybe they're a bit rubbish in the kitchen and they need a hint?

Look no further than The Soul Food Company, the brainchild of Maggie Lynch, who runs all sorts of cooking courses – from gluten free, to paleo to simple snacks. 

The great thing about this gift is that your tummy will benefit from the gift too. Winning.

5. Anything from Industry

Industry was recently voted joint winner of the best gift/craft/interior design shop in Ireland 2015 by The Irish Times and with one look at it's website and it's not hard to see why.

Their stock is filled with items we all yearn for, but it's their unisex Eco leather satchels, book collection and kitchen accessories that take the absolute biscuit. 

6. Vinyls from Eighty Eight

Is your partner a music lover? Add to their collection with help from the guys at Eighty Eight. Based in Temple Bar and regular stands at markets around the city, these guys are hard to miss and more than willing to help fellow music heads.

They also have an impressive selection of records, so you're sure to find something they'll love.

7. A personalised wine bottle from Winemax

This is truly the gift that keeps on giving.

Who doesn't want to get drunk on their own booze? Only to be improved by...

8. A personalised onesie from gifts.ie

Gifts.ie has outdone itself this time.

Nothing says comfortability in the relationship like drinking personalised wine in your personalised onesie. Chin chin, lovers. 

9. A pet from The ISPCA

What a way to share the love on the national day of love than adopting a furry friend. They have a huge range of animals that desperately need homes, love and affection. 

Warning: Only buy if your other half wants, would love and will look after an animal.

10. Tickets to anything from Ticketmaster

Des Bishop, Leinster, Body&Soul, Nelly – whatever floats their boat, Ticketmaster has them. An experience is always better than a gift anyway. 

11. And finally, a collage of their favourite sporting heroes from wordbird.ie

Wordbird.ie are a sweet Irish company which produces beautifully designed artworks, guaranteed to leave you inspired. They have a huge range of ideal presents on their site, and would make a perfectly personal, yet cool, gift for your other half.

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