By Lauren Sellman, Arts & Entertainment Editor
Valentine’s Day card and roses. Photo// Days of The Year
As Valentine’s Day approaches, the pressure to plan the perfect celebration can be overwhelming. Whether you’re in a relationship, spending time with friends, or embracing solo self-care, there are endless ways to make the day special.
Celebrating with Your Partner or Friends:
Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be a financial strain. If you’re looking for thoughtful yet affordable gifts, consider a basket filled with your significant other’s favorite things. In addition to their favorite candy and snacks, consider including practical gifts such as cozy socks, a portable charger, or skincare.
Gift ideas that won’t Break the Bank:
Bake something for your partner, or make it together.
Put together a homemade flower bouquet.
Write a heartfelt note or card.
Cook dinner at home.
Plan a picnic at a scenic location.
Make them a playlist of songs that hold special meaning or remind you of them.
Alternatively, plan an activity to do together, such as building a Lego set, going to a comedy show, painting pottery, or indulging in a spa day. The most sentimental gifts are time well spent, don’t underestimate how much moments spent together can be appreciated.
Embracing Self-Love:
For those flying solo on Valentine’s Day, embrace the opportunity to treat yourself to a day of self-care. In a society that encourages the idea that having the perfect relationship is the key to happiness, surprisingly more and more people are choosing to spend their time being single.
Self-care is a much broader term than it’s made out to be, and can include any activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Whether it’s spending time with friends, indulging in retail therapy, or simply enjoying a day of video games. No one knows you better than yourself and spending Valentine's alone means you get to pick the restaurant, the dessert, and the movie. So take this chance to put yourself first.
According to the Pew Research Center, 57% of single Americans are not currently looking for a relationship and are content with celebrating the holiday on their own. This statistic reflects a growing trend of individuals valuing self-love and independence.
Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love in all its forms. Whether you’re exchanging gifts with a significant other, enjoying time with your Galentines, or treating yourself to a day of self-care, the key is to make the day special in a way that resonates with you. The decorations are cute, the opportunities are endless, so why not embrace the love in the air and celebrate Valentine’s Day in your own way?