How to Create a Special Valentine's Day

romantic tips

Tired of spending too much money for one day of romance? Valentine's Day doesn't have to be expensive, and the romantic mood it invokes doesn't have to last for only one day. Many celebrate the 12 days of Christmas, so why not enjoy 14 days of valentines? It can be cheap, fun, and extraordinarily easy. Follow these tips to make your valentine feel extra special.

Things You'll Need

• Cheap candles
• Photographs
• Cookies
• Creativity

Instructions

1. Light it up. Nothing sets the mood for romance more than the enticing aroma and flickering glow of a burning candle, so use them to your full advantage. On February 1, light a candle at dinner. The following evening, add another candle and light them both. Continue to add a candle each evening until Valentine's Day. As you add candles, arrange them into the shape of a heart. On February 14, you and your valentine will enjoy a romantic dinner amid the glow of your heart-shaped creation.

2. Play it. Take a cue from the crooners and express your love for your honey with music. Every day surprise your valentine with a special song. You can play it, sing it, or send it via E-mail to work or a phone. Better yet, burn your songs onto a CD, and your sweetheart will have a collection of special songs to savor the whole year.

3. Write it. This year, instead of buying a card, express your thoughts with your own words. Dig out 14 of your favorite pictures, write down your feelings, and make your own cards. Present your honey with one card a day until Valentine's Day. Or, for a twist, create some special valentine "fortune cookies." Bake or buy heart-shaped cookies. Individually wrap each cookie and include in each package a handwritten "fortune."

4. Be creative. There are no rules on Valentine's Day, so let your imagination run wild!

Tips & Warnings

• If you want to include your children, these activities can easily become family-friendly.

• Be careful with the candles.