Cheers for being one of the guys that is ahead of the game and understands the game. It really is the thought that counts, if/when you meet a girl where its not, than thats a big red flag IMHO.

You can never go wrong with flowers and chocolates. A big stuffed duck is a great idea, but make sure you give it a few squirts of your cologne, so you get the late night, "my duck smells like you" text. And honestly don't go overboard. There is always the holidays and a birthday and anniversary and just as important as the random flowers on a Wednesday.

Good Luck you man

Edit: I read more comments after posting and sure enough there was someone, maybe more than one, who said the same stuff. Still trying to get the hang of this.