Soon after the Christmas and New Year decorations disappeared from the shelves, Valentine’s Day chocolates, teddy bears, and cards took their place. It’s almost time for the holiday that is meant to celebrate romantic connections between people, but it’s easy to get wrapped up in the consumerism of the holiday, too.
If you’re wanting something a little bit different for Valentine’s Day, then we’ve got a few ideas for you. You don’t have to spend $100 on roses and chocolates to express how you feel about someone (you certainly can if you enjoy that!). But sometimes coming up with ideas on how to celebrate Valentine’s Day differently can feel a little overwhelming. So check out the list below and let us know how your February 14th goes.
Shop and buy local gifts
If you want to get a gift for someone special, then we recommend shopping at your local boutiques and gift stores. It’s a great way to keep your community thriving while also having something extra special to gift. If your neighborhood farmer’s market is open in the winter, consider getting some flowers from a vendor and coupling it with local honey or sweet treats. Most markets do extra events leading up to Valentine’s Day.
Make time for deep conversation
Valentine’s Day is about connecting with someone you love and care about. It’s not always about romantic partners, either. It can be spending time with your child, good friends, and family, too. Taking a day to think about those you love, and then letting you know you love them, is a wonderful way to spend a day.
So show your feelings by setting aside time to really talk to the people you care about. This could be over dinner with your partner, coffee with your best friend, or even at an anti-Valentine’s Day party. Connection is always a wonderful gift!
Start by asking questions and then really listening to people’s answers. Bring How Do You See The World? or even just a few cards from the game and use those questions to find out new things about the people you love. You might even discover something new about yourself, too.
Cook a meal at home
This one might seem obvious, but it’s definitely worth your consideration! If you don’t cook at home much, then this is a great way to connect and save a little money. Or maybe your partner or significant other is the one who always cooks. If that’s the case, you can surprise them with a delicious meal. And if you’re nervous about cooking, then try out one of the meal kit services such as Home Chef, Blue Apron, or Purple Carrot (plant-based meals). You’ll have everything you need, including instructions.
Plan a trip
A fun way to spend Valentine’s Day is exploring trip possibilities and making plans for a future vacation. Traveling in February is difficult for most, between work pressures, school schedules, and winter weather. Instead, after dinner, sit down together and talk about where you’d love to go. Start making plans for hotels, flights, hostels, or whatever suits your fancy. Making plans for a fun and adventurous time is a great way to connect and have something to look forward to.