Valentine’s Day this year is going to be a very different experience for many of us.
I don’t know what you were all doing on cupid’s day of love last year, but I was sitting on the shores of Lake Garda sipping Laguna wine before enjoying a wonderful meal. Little did we know at the time that we would need to savour the memory. No-one could have predicted that we would still be in lockdown nearly a year on, battling a pandemic and being unable to celebrate in our normal fashion.
Lake Garda and the Festival of Love
That doesn’t mean however, that we should forget about Valentine’s Day altogether. We should still be celebrating our love for each other, but from the comfort of our own homes.
Enjoying pre-dinner drinks on the shore of Lake Garda
How to Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Home
Just because we cannot go out and overindulge in a mouth-watering meal cooked by someone else that doesn’t mean to say we should close the doors on the most amorous day of the year. There are still plenty of ways to make the day memorable and to show someone how much they mean to you.
Image provided by Marco Verch Professional
#1 Find the Ideal Valentine’s Day Gift
This doesn’t have to be expensive, remember it’s the thought that counts.
Book lovers love romantic gestures just as much, if not more than, a gift. They want to be swept up in the moment and feel like they themselves are in their very own Pride and Prejudice movie being courted by Mr Darcy.
If however, you wish to give your loved one a gift they will remember this year, there are plenty of romance novels out there that I am sure they would love, whether they would prefer to read a classic love story or a contemporary tale of affection and lust.
Should you wish to continue giving throughout the year there are also many book subscription boxes to choose from, including several with a romance theme and contain not only novels but also other gifts that will no doubt impress the bookworm in your life.
Alternatively, if you are looking for the perfect gift for the man in your life and want something completely different this year, you could always opt for an alterative Jerky Flower Bouquet or perhaps he would prefer a Bloody Mary Mixing Kit along with some single malt flavoured Caramel. The beauty of the internet is that you can visit many different websites in order to create a truly unique experience for your other half. Why not make this year one to remember.
Image provided by Shari’s Berries
#2 Breakfast in Bed
For me, it’s the little things that count. I am always awake before my husband and therefore it falls to me to brew the first cuppa of the day.
On Valentine’s Day however, you could treat your other half with one of the simplest pleasures in life – breakfast in bed.
This doesn’t need to be a big show either. A simple mug of coffee in bed with a couple of slices of toast will go an awful long way, trust me. Of course, if you want to go all out with pancakes and treats I love the idea of a breakfast sharing board.
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As the saying goes, it’s the thought that counts, and nothing says ‘I love you’ more than someone who goes out of their way to start your day in the right way.
Handmade gift ideas
#3 Handmade Goodies
I know that not everyone is creative, but I also believe that there is nothing more romantic then your other half spending a bit of their own time designing and making something with their own hands.
This could be anything from a homemade card to a selection of baked cookies. To me, it says that they care enough to spend time doing something for you.
I get it. There are going to be people screaming at the computer screen right now, asking me why on earth I have put the idea out there, but seriously, we have the time right now, why not tap into your inner artist and make something completely unique.
For those that have gone into panic mode, remember you don’t have to do it completely on your own. I know finding ideas alone can be stressful so I would start by suggesting that you have a look on social media, especially Pinterest. There are people out there that create beautiful works of art, and whilst yours may not be quite so finished, remember, it’s the thought that counts!
There are also many websites out there that offer suggestions should you wish to create your very own Valentine’s Day card. These don’t need to be boring. Why not try to design something completely unusual using one of the many paper cutting templates, stickers and crafty bits you can attach to a card to make it stand out.
Amazing food at the Agriturismo Mormoraia in Tuscany
#4 Cook a Meal
They do say that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and Valentine’s Day isn’t just about making the female in your life feel special.
You may not be able to go out for a slap up meal, but that doesn’t mean you cannot recreate it at home for yourself. Why not cook up a storm in the kitchen together, that way not only do you get to enjoy a romantic meal together, but you get to spend some quality time with each other as well.
#5 Settle in for a Night at the Movies
It may seem a strange suggestion considering we are spending more time in front of the television than ever before, but why not consciously sit down and watch a film together. You could go all out and make popcorn, get some treats in and set the mood for a loving date night in.
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As a side note, for those that want to do something other than watch TV there are many other events being run over this affectionate festival that you may want to get involved in – from wine tasting and cocktail making classes to theatre productions there is bound to be an activity you can do together that will make the day both memorable and special.
It would be so easy to let this day of love pass us by without showing those we love just how much they mean to us. Please, I urge you, not use lockdown as an excuse. Let’s make this Valentine’s Day something special.
Are you planning to surprise your loved one this Valentine’s Day? What plans do you have to make this a memorable, special day?
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A Note from our Sponsor
2020 and the beginning of 2021 have been difficult for many and while Valentine’s Day has always been a festival to celebrate the love couples have for one another, let this Valentine’s Day also be a time when we look out for all of those around us.
Throughout the pandemic, loneliness is an increasing concern for so many people. More than ever, we’re looking for different ways to spread the love – whether that’s to loved ones or smiles to strangers. If you’re dressing up your doorway, writing cards or celebrating Valentines with a loved one, Design Bundles has tons of tools and inspirations to help action this. They have pledged to be a part of this cause and to help spread positivity through creativity and crafting.
The meaning behind Design Bundles’ share the love campaign is to try and help shine a light in dark times. Spreading positivity and joy is food for the soul, and can be so much fun to dive into. As well as being craft and creation addicts and advocates, they are helping to share resources and helplines to help battle loneliness for anyone in need.
We don’t want anyone to feel they are completely alone this Valentine’s Day. If you feel you need to reach out and speak to someone please remember there are many people out there willing and waiting for your call.
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From both of us, we encourage you to reach out.
Talk to family and friends about how you are feeling, or if you would prefer, pick up the phone. People are waiting and wanting to talk to you.
Helpline Websites and Numbers (UK based):
Ageuk.org.uk – 0800 678 1602 (8am-7pm, 365 days)
Samaritans.org – 116 123 (24 hours, 365 days)
Letstalkloneliness.co.uk is an online resource, offering advice and support suggestions.
Campaigntoendloneliness.org are running a campaign to get people talking. See how you can get involved here.
Thank you to Design Bundles for sponsoring this article. I have been paid for my time but all views and opinions mentioned in this piece are my own.
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Perfect ideas for Valentine’s Day. Even though we are at home, we can still make our special someone happy and feel loved.