Valentine’s Day can bring stressful feelings to even the most laid-back couples. We’re here to tell you that the holiday doesn’t have to be a pressure-filled one! Keeping things simple and sweet at home is a great way to celebrate.
Whether you queue up a few favorites or the latest blockbusters, a romantic movie night is a fun way to celebrate Valentine’s Day with your partner.
Step One: Pick your movies. We love a themed night. Pick a selection featuring the same actor, the same director, or from a similar genre. If there’s any time to whip out a rom-com, this is clearly it!
Step Two: Plan your snacks. You can’t go wrong with popcorn! But if you’re feeling fancy, put together a charcuterie board with different cheeses, salami, nuts, and crackers.
Step Three: Prep your jammies. A movie marathon is no time for tight denim! Slip into comfy pajamas to start your relaxing night in.
Yup, you read that correctly. Add a bit of nostalgia to your Valentine’s Day by transforming the living room into a cozy blanket fort for two. Whip out your collection of bed sheets, comforters, and quilts to use as building materials. Line the inside of your fort with fleece blankets and throw pillows for comfortable lounging. Leave your phones behind and listen to records or play board games instead of zoning out electronically.
No need to travel to a trendy, crowded bar. Set up your own wine flight for tasting at home. Pick up a few bottles you’ve never tried before. For fun, don’t look too closely at the labels and take turns guessing as you sip! It really doesn’t matter if you’re nowhere near an expert oenophile — just have fun.
Cooking a nice meal together is always a great way to acknowledge the holiday of romance. Pro tip: Choose a dish associated with a special memory, like the food you ordered on your first date or your favorite meal from your honeymoon or other travels. Or pick something that’s new to the both of you and enjoy the challenge. Keep a set of monogrammed towels handy for any accidents, but don’t let a little spilled sauce spoil the mood.
You can’t let Valentine’s Day pass without some sugar! Like cooking dinner, baking is a fantastic activity to do together. Mix up a batch of sugar cookie dough, dig out those heart-shaped cutters, and get to work. After the cookies are cooled, frost with red and pink frosting, then reap the rewards of your tasty work. If you feel like sharing, consider boxing up some extra cookies to deliver to neighbors, friends, and family. Of course, the dishes will be waiting for you when you return!
Even if it’s cold out, taking a nice walk around the neighborhood is a chance for relaxing one-on-one time. With the right gear, like down coats, fleece sweaters, and winter accessories, you’ll be able to stroll for hours. Pro tip: A nighttime walk can feel extra romantic when there’s no one else around. Bonus points if it’s lightly snowing and sparkling in the streetlights!
Love the spa but don’t want to pay those premium prices? Bring the spa services to you with simple self-care activities at home. DIY face masks are easy and super soothing. For dry skin, mix up half an avocado and one teaspoon each of olive oil and honey. Apply it to your face, let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes, then lightly wipe it clean with some monogrammed washcloths for a dewy glow.
Miss getting a mani? Give yourself and your significant other a professional manicure for a fraction of the cost. And of course, a rejuvenating massage or back rub is a go-to spa service for any DIY salon.
There’s nothing like sliding into a fresh set of flannel sheets after a day of Valentine’s Day activities. Prep your master suite with all things cozy and comfy, and throw in a few candles for good measure.
No matter how you celebrate, making the day personal is what will make it special. This is the day for reminiscing, inside jokes, and plenty of fun. Don’t worry about anyone else’s expectations but your own, and the two of you will surely have a romantic, stress-free Valentine’s Day.