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It is easy to feel a bit cynical about Valentine’s Day. Especially when you walk into a store, or scroll socials, and feel bombarded with hearts, cards, chocolates, and flowers. However, Valentine's Day doesn't have to be about the things we buy to show our love. Instead, it can be about how we intentionally choose to uplift others and help them feel loved. Not just being loved, but feeling loved is a human need.
Below are thoughtful and unique ways to express your feelings to your Valentine.
For Him
I don’t know about you, but I always have a hard time finding something for my guy. All the usual go-tos seem to be focused with the man as the gift giver. But never fear! Below are some of my favorite Ideas in a variety of price points.
- Heart Attack - Use heart shaped post it notes to leave love notes all over his car at work.
- Candy Gram - make an oversized card with poster board and use his favorite candy bars to write a fun message. Feel free to use this one, or create your own!
Please don’t <Snickers>, but it brings me <Almond Joy> to think of the <Whatchamacallit>, oh yes, <Mounds> of Love I have for you. Your <Kisses> Make me feel like <100 Grand> Be<Twix> us, I think you are my <3 Musketeers> in shining armor. Thanks for being my Valentine!
- Pajamas - Who wouldn’t love being pampered with comfy pajamas at the end of a long day?
- The Game of Love Bed Sheets
- Dinner for two - Making or getting take out of his favorite dinner and having a romantic dinner in.
- Love Note Jar - Write all the things you love and appreciate about him on a different piece of paper. Present them in a decorated jar with the directions to only open one a day. It’s a gift that keeps giving.
- Engraved Something - If your guy wears jewelry, have a ring or pocket watch engraved with a special note. If he is more into knives, a cool knife with an engraved message is pretty sweet.
For You
Whether you have someone or not on Valentine’s day, there is no reason, you can’t show love and appreciation for yourself on Valentine’s Day. Here are some ideas to
- Love notes - we can all use some self appreciation. Why not write all the things you like about yourself on separate pieces of paper and read one each day.
- Special Gift - Buy yourself a gift that feels special to you.
- Spa Day - Either splurge at the spa, or create a budget friendly experience spa day at home
- Pajamas - Treat yourself to luxurious new pajamas. Warm and comfy or soft and silky.
- Dinner for one - Enjoy dinner from your favorite restaurant and watch your favorite movie or read your favorite book.
- Do something active - Show some love to yourself by going on a hike you've always wanted to. Or take a bike tour of your city.
- Visit a museum - Take yourself out to a cool museum and enjoy the exhibits at your own pace.
For Kids
My parents always bought us a small box of chocolates growing up and placed it outside our bedrooms. Then when I moved away to college my parents always sent me a small bouquet of flowers. It meant so much to me and it is a tradition I carry on with my children.
- A small box of chocolates - Nothing fancy, just a simple, I’m thinking of you.
- Homemade Chocolates - One year I made homemade treats for my kids. It was a lot of work, but my kids loved them!
- Love Notes - Write a small note of what makes them special. Slip it under their bedroom door or leave it on their pillow..
- Send them flowers - Small bouquets or bud vases are enough to make them feel special, loved, and remembered.
- Sweets for my Sweet - Fill a good bag with their favorite candy with an attached love note.
- Love Lunch - If they go to school and you make their lunch, make it extra field with love, with either favorite food, or hearts themed items. Add a little note for an extra personal touch.
- Special dinner - Prepare a special Valentine's Day themed dinner for your kids to enjoy while you and your spouse enjoy your romantic dinner elsewhere.
For Gal Pals
While we often think about giving V-day Gifts to that special guy in our life, what about close friends? When I was in college, I placed a single rose on each of my roommates beds with a little note of appreciation. Here are some ideas to give appreciation to those friends who have your back!
- Flowers - a single rose, or a simple bouquet can be such a great way to help your friends feel special.
- Jewelry - Cute handmade items communicate thoughtfulness and uniqueness.
- Spa Day - Create or buy a spa day gift basket
- Fuzzy socks - I love these
- Bag of Love - A gift bag full of yummy snacks and treats
- Love Note - A handwritten card or note of what you appreciate in them.
And of course Foxey Dots has some fantastic earrings and bracelets that would make a great gift or compliment for your cute Valentine's day look.
Valentine's Day can be a wonderful time to uplift those who are the closest to us. How will you make this day a special day for those you love?