Things You'll Need:
- creativity
- imagination
- sense of fun
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Step 1
Get creative!Don't Buy a Card: Store-bought cards are quick and easy, but not very personal. Show your loved one that you were thinking of them by making a card yourself. If you are not an artist, consider gluing a photo to a blank card or cut out a heart-shaped valentine. Put a personalized message on the inside.
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Step 2
Make memories!Get Out of Town: Plan a short trip out of town. Stay at a bed and breakfast, escape to the coast or rent a cabin in the mountains. Or get tickets to an event, such as a show, a sporting event or even a movie. Events and trips create lasting memories, especially when you bring a camera along!
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Step 3
Play dress up!Stay In: Dinner out is lovely, but staying in can be even more fun! Get dressed up in your best dress and suit, but make a delicious candlelight dinner in your own home. Don't forget dessert and dancing. Move all the living room furniture aside and have a romantic picnic on the floor. Organize a Valentine's Day theme treasure hunt. Leave a trail of clues through the house accompanied by small gifts, flowers or candy. Have the trail lead to the main gift, a bottle of champagne or a freshly drawn bubble bath for two.
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Step 4
Play it!Make It Yourself: Homemade gifts are always best because of the time and thought that is put into them. In addition to a handmade card, make your own gift as well. Perhaps a picture frame (with a picture of you included!). Make a calendar with photos of you two for each month and anniversaries or special dates filled in. Create a memory board with notes or ticket stubs and write down moments from your past. Consider writing a poem or a story to express your love. Burn a CD of "your songs" and write out the significance of each in a card.
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Step 5
Surprise!: Place an ad in the "I Saw You" or "Missed Connections" section of your local newspaper that is a love note and leave where your partner will see it. Dedicate a song over the radio when you know they will be listening.
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Step 6
Not just roses...Make It Personal: The most important part of your Valentine's Day experience should be making your loved one feel special. Even cliche gifts can be great if you personalize them. Does she love coffee? Give her espresso-flavored chocolates. Does he love sports? Give him football or soccer shaped candies. This applies to jewelry and flowers as well. Consider a one-of-a-kind antique piece of jewelry instead of diamonds, or a bouquet of her favorite flower, not just run-of-the-mill roses.
