There are some occasions when it’s implied and expected that you’re going to buy or do something for your girl. Valentine’s Day, birthdays, and anniversaries are good examples. It’s great if you’re a guy who handles those well, but there are definitely other things you can do that make you stand out to her, and possibly her friends and family too.

Send flowers for no reason

Whether it’s to her office where all her coworkers see, or to her family’s house while she is there, flowers can serve a dual purpose. First, your girl will likely really like them. Second, if random flowers show up, you’ll earn points with any other females around… be it her coworkers or family members. This isn’t totally selfish because it will also let her show her coworkers that she has the best guy, so she gets to show off too.

Get tickets to a show or concert

Pick a night, don’t make a big deal out of it, but just make sure her schedule is open. Then a few hours before showtime, tell her where to be when. This is a good opportunity to show you were listening by getting tickets to something you know she wants to see. Obviously the fun activity is great, but showing you listen is also a huge plus.

Cook something with her

If you’re a guy who typically cooks, like our contributor Rich, this one probably isn’t for you. However, if you are like me and know little to nothing in the kitchen, a little effort can go a long way. Even just going and picking up some pizza crusts, sauce, cheese, and toppings can make a fun project that you can do with her… even on a special occasion if you don’t want to go out.

Send her and her best friend for manicures

This one is most effective in the earlier stages of a relationship, when you are not really close with her friends and they haven’t fully made up their mind about you yet. Find a great local nail salon and get a gift certificate for your girl and her bestfriend to have manicures and pedicures. Make sure you include the tip! Girls love getting their nails done, and they can spend the whole time talking about how awesome you are.

Set a romantic scene at home

You don’t have to go out to be romantic. Get some candles, nice music, and the makings of her favorite cocktail or some champagne. Before she arrives home, turn down the lights, light a bunch of candles, put on the music, and pour some drinks… and you will probably be in for a fun night. To make the night even better, make sure you’ve taken care of business already.