A NEW IDEA!
One of the things you do a lot of when you start to work with a new idea is talk to lots and lots of people. Once you get over the paranoia of someone stealing your ‘baby’, you open up to everyone you meet, explaining your new concept. For An Occasional Dream, my ‘in a nutshell statement’ has been to describe it as ‘Romance in a box’.
Now – that has led to all sorts of misapprehensions and maybe that bit of uncertainty is useful as it starts people talking. What are the differences between romantic and purely sexual activity? Who would buy this treat – men or women? Is it for gay or straight couples? All of this has sharpened my curiosity, so to start off, I’ve been finding out about the romantic gifts exchanged between couples.
MOST POPULAR GIFTS
The most popular romantic gifts are, as you probably expect, flowers and chocolates. One person told me that he sends his wife a floral card every year on their anniversary and the florist sends a fresh, seasonal arrangement every month throughout the year. Jewellery is also popular, along with books and photographs. I think the loveliest story I’ve heard is about a couple who, between them, own a small, handcrafted heart: they give and receive this over and over again, surprising each other by hiding it for the other to find. A bit like a romantic ‘hunt the thimble’ game! A few mention a holiday as a romantic gift. Now that’s where the sharing bit comes in – not just a trophy or ‘thing’ but an experience to share. Or maybe it’s the old story of giving what you would like to receive yourself?Some gifts are really chosen with the recipient in mind – how about a flamethrower or a chainsaw?! Both were described by the recipients as ‘romantic gifts’ – the flamethrower was given to a friend by her husband and the chainsaw is greatly appreciated by the chap who received it from his wife.
Some people, especially men, are reluctant to present a gift unless it is an anniversary or birthday – they are worried that any gift will be viewed with suspicion from their partner. I think that’s a real pity – or is it really an excuse men hide behind to compensate for a lack of spontaneity?
ROMANCE IN A BOX
What I’ve created in An Occasional Dream is a package that is not limited unless you choose so – there’s room to add all sorts of treats to the box – ok, so maybe not room for a flamethrower (!) but you could add a watch, a piece of lingerie or some favourite chocolates to make the gift more personal, or even a hand-written love letter – the inspiration that led to this new idea.More on that next time….
