I’m not afraid to toot my own horn - Valentine’s Day went particularly well in my household this year. In the absence of roses, chocolates, jewelry, or even a simple card (gasp!), I pulled it off bigger and better than ever before. V Day 2010 required more work than usual, but it was worth every second. So for all my readers interested in a brilliant gift idea for her - Valentine’s Day or otherwise - here’s a winner: let your lady use her creativity to design her dream closet, then show her your skills by building it for her using the Elfa system.

Elfa is a line of modular storage components that help you maximize your storage space to its full potential. This system relies on shelves, drawers, and an array of specialized storage accessories which are suspended from vertical, wall-mounted tracks. In short, Elfa makes storage easier while allowing you to tailor it - even alter it over time - to fit your needs.

There are two ways to go about designing a closet using Elfa, but understand that each option will require the assistance of an Elfa designer. Starting from Elfa’s website, you can shop and customize your design plan while simultaneously talking on the phone with an Elfa representative who handles all the details of your order. Alternatively, you can design your closet in person with the staff Elfa specialist at The Container Store location nearest to you. That’s the route we opted for, and the fella who helped us in the Little Rock Container Store was fantastic. We watched on a computer screen as he, with Charlotte’s preferences in mind, guided us through the entire design process.

Now, where there used to be just one shelf and one hanging bar in our closet, there are two hanging bars, several shelves, and a gliding jewelry box - more than doubling the utility of the space. I take pride in the fact that I installed it, and unlike other presents that I considered, this one will last for years and be used daily. I’ll probably also be installing one of Elfa’s pull-out pant racks in my own closet in the near future.

One final note I’ll add: as you’re browsing the Elfa website, keep in mind that you don’t have to spend a fortune to improve your storage area. Most of the ‘best-selling solutions’ suggested are quite pricey, but that’s because of all the bells and whistles included such as fancy wood trim. If you keep your system simple and self-install it, you can really improve your storage areas without breaking the bank…all while impressing the girl.