Aah February, the month of love. Some may argue that it’s the most stressful time of the year (other than Christmas). The overconsumption of chocolates, wine and extravagant gifts will flood your social media pages. Over the top celebrations and engagements seen online can set an unrealistic expectation sometimes. It’s hard to think that something intimate and budget friendly can compete with what we view on our phone screens. But that’s not true. Comparison is the thief of joy and most of what we see online is content created & curated for views and nothing more. There are plenty of ways to enjoy this holiday stress free while actually having meaning behind the efforts we give to the ones we love. Sometimes, the most special and meaningful moments aren’t shared online, sometimes they’re private and sacredly shared between each other. And they don’t have to cost more than your monthly mortgage to mean something. Valentine’s day is a loving holiday for showing how much someone means to you; not how much you can spend on a person. Somewhere along the line though, the message seems to have gotten lost in the representation of movies and social media. Personally, I find joy in the more private and meaningful gestures from a loved one. So, if you’re looking for a different approach to Valentine’s Day, without the stress and without unnecessary debt, keep reading for a list of 10 activities you can do with your loved one. And if you still want to share on social media, do you babe! I won’t judge 😉
1. Board Games
Board games are an activity that require both parties to actively participate in order to be fun. You can play a familiar favorite or try a new game together. There are a variety of inexpensive couple themed games that you can find in stores. Some examples include: SERVD Couples, The Couples Game: Late Night, and We’re Not Really Strangers: Couples Edition. There are plenty more that you can find with many variations, some more risqué than others. Pick the game that you think fits your relationship. Some games can open conversations or questions that you may have not thought to ask otherwise. Others can spice things up or have you laughing all night. If you’re a couple that is more into online or electronic games, make it a friendly challenge. Winner gets a massage, foot rub, etc. Healthy and fun competition is a great way to spend Valentine’s Day with your significant other. Playing games together can create a deeper bond with your loved one. There really is something for everyone.
2. Exchange Love Letters
Writing your partner a love letter doesn’t have to be difficult or boring. And no, you shouldn’t use AI to create a love letter for you. A love letter should be written with intention and uniquely written by you. You want it to be genuine and from the heart. It doesn’t need to be long form; another option is writing a list of your favorite things about that person. It can be a silly or romantic poem about your loved one. You can write about the ways this person has made an impact on your life and how much you appreciate them. Decide what types of letters you’ll want to exchange (poem or list) and exchange them on the 14th. You can decide to read them aloud to each other or read silently next to each other. Either way, it’s a meaningful gift that you can save each year and it’s much more personal than those store-bought cards.
3. 14 Days of Love Notes
This February, buy yourself a pack of sticky notes. Any color will work. Starting on the 1st write one thing you love about your significant other. It can be something funny, sweet, a kind message or a positive quote. Leave that note where your partner will see it, like on a bathroom mirror or packed in their lunch bag. Every day, until Valentine’s Day (or the whole month), you’ll leave one sticky note for them. And every day, they’ll be surprised with a sweet note from their loved one. It’s a great way to start the day or a nice midday pick me up. Never underestimate the power of positive loving words.
4. Romantic Movie Night
Your living room is the perfect place to set up some blankets and cozy pillows for a romantic movie night. Pick a classic favorite or go for a new movie. It doesn’t necessarily have to be a romantic film either. You can cuddle up to a scary movie, laugh at a comedy or enjoy a thrill-seeking movie. Pick something you both have been wanting to watch and enjoy a night in with your babe. Add in some chocolates, wine or appetizers and you have a set up better than the theaters within the comfort of your home.
5. Romantic Spa Night
There’s nothing better than a romantic night, relaxing with your other half. Dim the lights, light a candle and play some music to set the mood. Couple massages are the way to go for a stress-free Valentine night. You can give each other massages in the comfort of your own home or you can book a couples massage at a local spa. It’s the perfect way to unwind and enjoy each other’s company. You will both feel rejuvenated and relaxed after a day of being pampered.
6. Romantic Picnic
A sweet picnic date at the park is a great way to spend some time together on Valentine’s Day. Pack yourself some lunch and a blanket and find that perfect spot to relax with your loved one. You can pick up your favorite takeout or pre make something at home. Enjoy nature, the fresh air and one on one time with your partner.
7. Couples Breakfast or Dinner
Bring the heat to the kitchen❤️🔥 If you don’t normally cook together, Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to spend some quality time in the kitchen. You can pre plan and purchase your ingredients the day before to save time. This is your day to get creative and make something delicious together. This can be a breakfast meal or dinner depending on your schedules. And if you didn’t already know, the kitchen makes a great dancefloor. Feel free to set the table, light some candles and play some music to set the mood.
8. Memory Jar
A beautiful keepsake that you can make for Valentine’s Day is a memory jar. All you need is a jar, some paper and something to write with. Starting on the first of February, each of you will write down one memory on a piece of paper and place it in the jar. On the 14th, together you’ll take turns taking out and reading a memory. You may even be surprised to see that you might share the same favorite memories. It’s a sweet and simple way to look back at beautiful moments together. Each year you can continue the tradition and add new memories to the jar.
9. Couples Art
Even if you are not artistically gifted, this activity is a fun one to try for Valentine’s Day. Sitting across from each other, you’re going to do your best to draw your partner. At the end you will both show your portraits at the same time. You’ll either end up shedding tears of sweet happiness or crying of laughter. Another option you can try as a couple, is a wine and paint class. This is usually a guided class where you’re meant to paint a specific picture while enjoying a glass of wine. A quick search online will help you find a wine and paint class near you.
10. Couples Bucket List
A couple’s bucket list is a great way to set your goals together for the year. Maybe there are places you’ve wanted to visit, food you’ve wanted to try or activities you want to experience. Write down what you both want to accomplish for the year and post it somewhere in your home where you both will easily see. Cross off or date when you’ve accomplished each one. You can go a step further and make it into a photo album to make it more of a sweet keepsake (like the adventure book from the Disney movie UP). This activity can be started on February 14th but will last the entire year.
Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be a stressful holiday. Someone who truly cares about you will appreciate genuine efforts no matter how much they cost. True love and kindness are not measured by monetary value. Connection, friendship and appreciation are much more valuable qualities in a relationship. Hopefully, these ideas help create or reignite that bond with your special person. You’re sure to enjoy the day with your loved one trying simple but meaningful activities like these. Happy Valentine’s Day! ❤️