Be Creative this Valentine’s Day!

Valentine’s Day can be a very stressful time, especially when you’re tight on money or trying to figure out what to do year after year. Like many other holidays, the pressure can be tough trying to figure out what to do or buy. When in reality, Valentine’s Day should be focused on who you love and showing them appreciation. Below are tips for saving money, creating new traditions, or finding new ways to express yourself this Valentine’s Day. 

1. Cook dinner at home: Food is often the way to anyone’s heart. There is nothing more romantic or thoughtful than putting in the effort to cook for someone else. Think of your partner’s favorite meal or something they have been wanting to try. So many of us watch online recipes and never make them. This Valentine’s Day challenge yourself and create something delicious for your partner. Cooking can definitely be a challenge, especially if you don’t usually cook. However, doing something unexpected and challenging will seem even more special for your loved ones. Above is the average cost of Valentine’s Day dinner in 4 major cities. Cooking at home and buying the ingredients yourself can also be a way to save some money on that dinner and instead enjoy a nice dinner at home. Plus, that extra money being saved can still go into a beautiful gift for your partner. Another great tip would be for both of you to cook dinner together at home and make an afternoon of it. Cooking can be very relaxing and fun when you have someone else to help you. Open up a bottle of wine and get cooking!
2. Make your own Valentine’s Day card: Valentine’s Day cards are usually pretty standard year after year. A great way to get creative this year would be to make your own cards. There are many fantastic examples and instructions on different websites, such as Pinterest and Buzzfeed. This is a charming idea if you have children who can also help out. Handmade items are always going to be more cherished and can even be put on display. Another reason why this is a great idea is that it’ll have more space for you to write a heartwarming message, rather than letting the cards do the talking. Valentine’s Day is all about expressing yourself, and what better way to do that than to really let your partner know how you feel.
3. Make it a family/friends affair: Whether you have kids, a partner, friends, etc. Valentine’s Day shouldn’t just be for couples. Celebrating as a family would be a great way to spend some time together- without the worry of finding a babysitter or restaurant that isn’t already booked. Celebrating Valentine’s Day together can also give you an opportunity to express your love for your parents, children, friends, and other relatives. The same goes or friends. Being single shouldn’t mean you can’t celebrate Valentine’s Day too. Due to the popularity of the show, Parks and Rec, many women are now celebrating Galentine’s Day- the day before Valentine’s Day. A day for women to get together and celebrate with each other. Overall, Valentine’s Day does not have to be just a romantic day. Life evolves, and so do traditions. Celebrating with family or a group of friends can be just as fun and a great tradition. 
4. Host a Spa night: If both of you are tired from working and need a day to rest, perhaps this is an idea for you. Buy your partner a comfy robe, put on some candles, and throw on a face mask. This would be a fun, silly way for both of you to relax and enjoy a vacation like feel at home. Have some relaxing music and pretend you’re at the spa that night. This can help with stress and overall fatigue. This night would also save you the hassle of making reservations or grand plans that you may be too tired for anyways. If you need a rest, crack open a bottle of wine and put on that comfy robe and relax. This date idea is very creative and can be a nice change from the usual Valentine’s Day traditions. 

Don’t stress this February! If you haven’t made plans, or are looking for something new and fresh to do, hopefully, these tips helped. Remember, Valentine’s Day doesn’t just have to be for couples. It can include the whole family, friends, or even just you. Don’t be afraid to cook, try new foods or traditions.