I like to bring gifts to meet someone for the first time. As I'm sure you know, some ladies list gift ideas. However, I suggest you may consider finding something unique that requires some extra effort, rather than the little bag of Godiva chocolates you pick up at Walgreens. I have an unusual career that lends itself to finding little nuggets, in a bit of a science nerd way. If I get the vibe from her profile that she'd appreciate that, great. It's unusual, matches her personality, and is unique to me. If that doesn't jive with her personality, then I look for something else. Gift bags with tissue paper are always a nice gift presentation-anticipation of opening a gift.
Meeting time near meal time? How about gourmet snacks? Fruit, wine, local desserts. This is easier if she has a play condo. But don't forget to bring ancillary items if you meet at a hotel as most rooms don't have wine glasses, spread knives, wine cork openers. I also like the potted plant idea though I've not used that yet.
But heed Nicole's advice!!! Don't walk through a hotel lobby with a gift basket, flowers or potted plant! Make sure you can fit your packages inside a computer bag so you look like the traveling businessman and not an out of place visitor.
I'm also a big charity fan. I like seeing ladies profiles that suggest a gift like a charity donation. I am much less enamoured by those gift idea pages with extravagent lists of the "who's who" in designer/brand label merchandising. I'm not inclined to buy a several hundred dollar handbag for someone when you could get a similar bag for 1/3rd the price at the local outlets, Target or Kohls and the balance could go to something useful like Amnesty, Heifer, Dana Farber, Children's, or any number of charitable foundations.
Finally I also like gift ideas that are reflective of local business. Like the local low volume winery, or micro local New England brew, or unique local arts/crafts from local Artisans; things that you don't get and don't see at National chain stores. Try to find something that matches/goes with her personality hints in her profile yet comes from you and is unique to your background and your visit. I think those kinds of things tend to be best recieved and most remembered.
Have fun
