February 14, Valentine’s Day, is fast approaching. Whether you’re single, attached, or your relationship falls in the “it’s complicated” category, if you’re looking for a way to change things up a little, the Business Consumer Alliance (“BCA”) staff offers
some suggestions to make your Valentine’s Day that much sweeter.
Priceless Sentiments
Flowers, dinner, candy, lingerie, jewelry, and other gifts can cost you a pretty penny. Why not show your adoration by doing something straight from the heart, but without the high price tag? A BCA staffer shared a heartfelt experience saying, “One year,
my husband and I went through our photo albums and reminisced about when we met, our first dates, places we visited, and things we have accomplished over the years. We also asked each other what our first impressions were of the other person. It really brought
back some wonderful memories, and some funny ones, too. We then planned to relive our first date the following Valentine’s Day, which we did.”
Perhaps one of these other imaginative ideas may suit you and your partner:
- Create a book listing reasons you’re thankful for your significant other.
- Fill a jar with Valentine candy and notes for your honey. On the notes, write IOUs for a massage, dinner, a night out, a movie, kisses, etc. Individually roll each note and tie with a ribbon.
- On note cards, write why you love your mate. Place the cards in a photo album and present it to him/her.
- Tape a note or Post-it note on your lover’s steering wheel in the evening, expressing why he/she is special to you. Or if they pack their lunch, slip a sweet note inside. What a lovely surprise they’ll have the next day!
- Send a dozen flowers with a note for a future date. For example, tickets to a concert of their favorite band.
- Take a do-it-yourself class together.
- Volunteer together to do something for someone in need.
Turn Your Home into Lovers Lane
Good food and drink plus romantic music go a long way to creating the right atmosphere. Plan a menu with your other half, shop together for the items you need, and prepare the meal with one another. Play your favorite love songs while you cook and set the
tone for a lovely evening. And after dinner, turn the family room into a dance floor. If cooking isn’t your thing, order your favorite takeout and have a picnic in your bedroom, backyard, or living room. Follow-up the meal with a romantic walk, bubble bath,
or a candlelight massage.
For Singles
If you find yourself without a significant other, spend the day with family or friends. One BCA staff member, who is a single mother, chooses to spend the day with her children. She says, “What I have done in the past is given gifts to my kids. One year
I bought my son a CD he wanted and woke him up by playing his favorite song.” What a marvelous idea. Other suggestions include making the kids their favorite meal, taking your parents out, or getting together with other single friends or family for a game
or movie night.
Long Distance Lovers
Just because you may be separated by distance doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a romantic time with your significant other. Send your beloved a care package. Add a few things you know they like, add at least one intimate item, and send it along with a love letter.
Modern technology is amazing and makes spending time together easier when you’re separated by miles. Make plans to have a movie night via phone or online chat. Select movies you both enjoy and watch them at the same time. Or why not have a virtual date complete
with dinner, candlelight, music, and great conversation via video chat. Although you may not be physically in the same space, you and your love will surely feel the romance in the air.
Keep it Traditional—But on Another Night
For couples looking to go the traditional route without the added expense Valentine’s can bring, consider going out to eat on another day instead of Valentine’s Day. As one BCA employee shares, not only are you likely to save money, but it will probably
be less crowded. Another suggestion our staffer offers is to order flowers for delivery prior to February 14. Not only will you probably save a few bucks, but you’re apt to have a better selection of flowers.
Valentine’s Day is a day when we show our appreciation to those we love. With a little imagination and creativity, you can create your own traditions and celebrate the special love you share.
About the Author:
Nicole Pitts is a Senior Business Analyst and Editor for Business Consumer Alliance. She has been with the organization for 12 years and specializes in report writing, business evaluation, and investigations. Nicole corresponds with businesses regarding
complaint trends and provides suggestions to help them alleviate problem areas that may cause concern. She also conducts advertisement reviews, reports on government enforcement actions, and assists government agencies and the media in obtaining information.
She enjoys reading, movies, and spending time with her family. Nicole can be reached by email at npitts@businessconsumeralliance.org.