Valentine’s Day is fundamentally a celebration of love, an evanescent but powerful emotion. However, in present-day society, the unwritten rule seems to be giving and receiving tangible (and often costly) gifts. Although we’re not vilifying gift-giving or the various festivities around it, we do recommend moderation to truly savor the occasion. Here are some thoughtful and budget-friendly ideas to ensure you and your special someone enjoy an unforgettable Valentine’s Day.
Kick-start the day by taking the morning off. Rent bikes, or use your own, and plan a sunny brunch picnic in the park. Movies have shown us time and again that picnics can be incredibly romantic. With a few basic (and reasonably priced) supplies, you too can recreate your very own romantic movie scene. Grab a vintage picnic basket, a vibrant blanket (you can find an array of these in any thrift store), and pack some homemade organic food for a delightful outing.
Return to the spot where you had your first date or where your paths crossed for the first time. Despite not being overly inventive, it never fails to impress. Try to recall and repeat what you ate or drank on that special day. Complement it with a heartfelt card that reminisce about those initial moments.
Consider hosting a lavish yet intimate dinner at home: dress elegantly, prepare a selection of subtle, exotic dishes that can be served as plated meals. Instead of spending heavily on branded drinks, try whipping up cocktails using affordable booze you already have at home. Enhance the ambiance with jazz tunes and an online roulette game, just for the thrill of it.
Plan a romantic night that starts with a bubble bath and your favorite love song. Light a few candles or spread adorable origami decorations around the room. Discreetly incorporate passion fruits and champagne to enhance the charm of the evening. But, the real charm lies in purchasing matching underwear for both of you and warming up plush fluffy towels before stepping out of the bath.
Lastly, put your heads together and plan your next vacation. While it may sound like a pricey proposition, it could be well within your budget, especially considering you’re likely to go on a holiday anyway. Conduct thorough research on the best places to visit and exciting activities in a destination you both are eager to explore. Keep it realistic in terms of budget (but avoid making any direct purchases for the time being). Use high-res images to create an aesthetically pleasing brochure as an ingenious Valentine’s gift. It offers you a chance to revisit and finalize the plan, while simultaneously leaving a lasting impression.
