Not Your Standard Valentine's Day Date Ideas

Valentin'es Day is just around the corner.  I wanted to share a couple of ideas for things to do with your special someone.  This is a holiday that is largely commercialized and some don't see the point in spending hundreds of dollars just to say I love you.  With my birthday being two days after Valentine's I've never been one to make a huge fuss over it.  I tend to be more of a homebody and would rather stay in than fight the masses when it comes to Valentine's Day.  With that being said, I am sharing some ideas of how to make the day special and let your loved ones know how loved they are without breaking the bank and going to extravagant measures.

Date Night In

Instead of fighting for a table on Valentine's Day, why not make dinner together and recreate your favorite foods from your go-to date night restaurants?  You can search for recipes, grocery shop together, and cook together.  Or you can put one of you in charge or the main course and one in charge of sides or desserts.  We've enjoyed cooking for and with each other in the past for Valentine's Day.  

Another take on date night in can be cocktails and dancing in your living room.  Be sure to make a playlist and stock up on your favorite drinks. Here's a strawberry Moscow mule recipe that would be perfect.

You can always rent a movie or cue up the Netflix after dinner and snuggle up with some popcorn and candy to round out your night in with your loved one.

Activity Date

Instead of going out to some fancy dinner and gifting each other with expensive gifts, why not change it up a little bit and go to a wine and canvas class or a cooking class.  Just get out there and do something together.  You could be bowling or making pottery.  Each of you could pick out one activity you enjoy doing or have always wanted to try and you can sign up for a class of each.

Get Creative

Instead of stressing about what the perfect gift is for your loved one, why not agree to exchange handmade gifts.  These gifts can be anything from letters to cookies to artwork to furniture if you're so inclined.  The bottom line is to use your creativity to express your love for someone.  Think outside of the box.  The time and effort put into making something already conveys your love, but creating something that is meaningful to your loved one shows your thoughtfulness.  

And in the end maybe you'd prefer the traditional flowers, candy, and a nice date out.  That is always fun too.  Just remember to celebrate your love for one another and plan ahead!