Well, it’s that time of year to choose a Valentine’s Day gift for yourself, a significant other, and/or another loved one. We’ve created a guide for all of your gift-giving needs—one that goes beyond a laundry list of random items from Amazon that no one needs.
1. Experiential gifts
Think of an experience you can give—not an object. These kinds of gifts foster stronger relationships than material gifts. Pay for a class your loved one has wanted to take, take them skydiving, go surfing, or give them concert tickets. Not sure where to find events in your area? Look up local theaters, conference centers, and other venues in your city or region, or search by location on Eventbrite.
2. Acts of service
The idea of “DIY coupons” may seem cheesy, but they actually make great gifts! It can be something simple (“I will do the dishes on your assigned nights this week,”) or something that takes a little more time (like helping them complete a complex project). Taking the time to serve your loved ones shows them that you care enough to lighten their load.
3. Donate to a charity
On a similar note, donating to a charity for a cause that is meaningful to both you and your partner is a thoughtful and meaningful way to give back while also showing your support for the things they care about.
4. Write a letter
Tell your loved ones what you appreciate and admire about them. Thank them for specific things they have done for you. Doing this in a letter gives you more time to think and choose the right words for the things you want to communicate.
5. Cook a favorite meal or bake a special treat
You can check out our Valentine’s day recipe roundup for some ideas, but whatever you choose, you are taking the time to make something nice for them (or for yourself)!
6. A Subscription or other service
Make life a little easier with services that save time! It could be a laundry service, a subscription to an app that makes certain tasks faster or easier, meal delivery or meal replacement delivery—whatever will free up some of their time that they can put towards more meaningful things on their endless to-do list.
7. Show Support
Think about the person you are buying for. Are they working on building an exercise habit? Buy them some fun workout gear. Did they set a goal to learn how to knit? Buy them some fancy yarn they probably wouldn’t buy for themselves.
Are they keto, or are they looking for ways to eat healthier? Ahem. We know a place with some fabulous options. (It’s us.)
Show your support of their goals however you can!
8. Do arts & crafts together
Look at what you already have around the house that you could use. What can you do with those extra pipe cleaners, or a blank mug? Make a message in a bottle, a bouquet of something they love, or a picture collage of the two of you together. Crack out the paint and hot glue gun and get crafting!
9. Create a memory box
A little cheesy? Maybe. But definitely adorable. Gather together mementos and keepsakes, such as photos, ticket stubs, and other memorabilia, and create a memory box that you can both treasure when you fancy a walk down memory lane.
10. Relax together
Treat your loved one to a spa day, a massage or a yoga class. Help them (and yourself!) unwind and relax after a long day and spend some quality time together away from the constant demands of everyday life.
In conclusion
Whatever your Valentine’s Day looks like this year, remember: celebrate the people you are grateful for, and take care of yourself. You are loved, and you are enough.
