The older I get the more I realize how insignificant Valentine’s day is. While I would still like to get a special valentine’s acknowledgment from my partner on that day, It doesn’t have to be some fancy gift. A simple gesture, an experience, or a handmade gift can go a long way.
Gifts

If gift giving is just what you like to do, then here are some ideas that you could give your significant other, friends, parents, etc. that have meaning and character.
Craft something from scratch like a card or a coupon book. If you’re like me, you’ve got a stock of craft supplies. Paper, stickers, pens, scissors etc. It really doesn’t take much! Whether it turns out looking fabulous or not, if you’re with the right person they will love it no matter what it looks like.
Coupon Book:This gift is so adaptable to different ages and types of people. Create coupons on paper that they can turn in to you and redeem for whatever the coupon is for. For example you could write, “this coupon is good for one free foot rub”.
Create a card or Write a Letter: Again, this doesn’t have to be perfect, but it has to look like you’ve put some effort into it. Take time to write something thoughtful and decorate it!
Events
Would you rather be in a lively atmosphere?

Look for free or low entry cost events. To my surprise I found quite a few music performances and dances in my area. Living in a small town I was worried I wouldn’t be able to find many Valentine events but we have no shortage of dive bars and winery performance opportunities.
Indoor activities
Don’t want to go anywhere? Spending the night in and making it fun with a special twist is also a great way to spend valentines day.

Bake or cook a meal together. If there’s no opportunity to buy new ingredients required for a specific recipe then make this activity a game. Gather ingredients already owned and see what kind of creative meal you can make with it. Whether you want to battle each other and see who can make something better or make something as a team together.
Movie night at home. Whether you each get to pick a movie and watch two or you agree on one together. Make it special by creating a special set up. Bring the mattress from the bedroom to make a cozy set up in the living room or create some sort of fun fort idea. Get creative and figure it out together! Pop some popcorn, eat some snacks and voila!
Spa Night. Gather spa related items like face masks, lotions, warm towels etc. This spa night can really entail anything you desire. Face and hair masks, grooming, nails, a massage. It’s really up to you, your needs and what type of supplies you have.
Paint or draw a portrait of each other. I’ve seen the reveal videos all over tik tok and instagram, people and their partners, friends, or whoever, paint or draw a portrait of each other. Then they reveal it to each other at the same time once they’re done. This activity is for everyone! Whether you can draw or not, I recommend putting thought and effort into your masterpiece. The results are sure to give you a good laugh or an amazing result!
Outdoor Activities

Who says valentines day has to be covered in traditional valentines decor? Go outside. Get some fresh air!
Pack a picnic and go for a hike. Who says valentines day has to be covered in traditional valentines decor? Go outside. Take a hike, pack some lunch and desert. Make a sweet memory. Easy, simple, refreshing.
Pack a picnic and visit the snow. Bring lots of warm clothes, and a portable propane stove, blankets etc. Make sure to wear the appropriate clothing so you’re not miserably wet. Drink some hot cocoa, make snowmen and snow angels, and dodge a few snowballs!
I hope this list helps you have a creative holiday without breaking the bank!!
-OPAL BRI






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