A Guide to Making Valentine’s Day Special: What NOT to Do
1. Valentine’s Day: Overdoing the clichés
While it’s easy to fall back on the traditional gifts of chocolates and roses, they can sometimes feel impersonal and overdone. Instead, consider a gift that reflects your partner’s interests or hobbies. For example, if they love cooking, a cookbook from their favorite chef could be a thoughtful gift.
2. Ignoring your partner’s preferences
Valentine’s Day is about celebrating your love for each other, so it’s important to keep your partner’s likes and dislikes in mind. If they prefer quiet nights in over grand gestures, plan a cozy movie night at home with their favorite films and snacks.
3. Staying in bed all day
While a lazy day in bed can be tempting, doing something active or adventurous can make the day more memorable. Consider going for a hike, visiting a museum, or trying out a new activity together.
4. Sticking to routine
Valentine’s Day is a great opportunity to break away from routine. Instead of going to your usual restaurant, try a new place that you’ve both been wanting to try, or cook a new recipe together at home.
5. Forgetting to plan
To make the day special, start planning well in advance. This could mean making reservations, buying tickets, or even just setting aside time to spend together.
6. Neglecting to communicate on Valentine’s Day
Communication is key to a successful Valentine’s Day. Discuss your plans and expectations for the day to avoid any misunderstandings. This could be as simple as a conversation over dinner or a thoughtful note.
7. Being too extravagant
Expensive gifts or lavish dinners aren’t necessary to show your love. Instead, consider simple and heartfelt gestures like writing a love letter, preparing a homemade meal, or even just spending quality time together.
8. Ignoring the day completely
Even if you’re not a fan of Valentine’s Day, it’s important to acknowledge it in some way, especially if it’s important to your partner. This could be as simple as a heartfelt note or a small gift.
9. Forgetting to be present on Valentine’s Day
Make sure to spend quality time with your partner and be fully present in the moment. This could mean putting away your phone and other distractions, and really focusing on each other.
10. Setting unrealistic expectations
Keep expectations realistic to avoid disappointment on Valentine’s Day. Remember, the day is about celebrating your love for each other, not about grand gestures or expensive gifts.
Remember, the most important thing is to make the day special for both you and your partner, in a way that reflects your unique relationship. Happy planning!
