February can be a challenging time or a wonderful time. If you are in a romantic relationship, Valentine’s Day arrives with a lot of expectations. This can often make or break a relationship. However, remember Valentine’s Day is just one day out of the year. There are still 364 other days that everyone needs to show their partner that they care. As we move into this season of romantic feelings, discuss with your partner a plan regarding greeting cards, expensive gifts, and fancy dinners. Consider doing something a little different this year.
Valentine’s Date Ideas
Most of these suggestions will be things that you can continue to do together throughout the year. First, step away from the standard greeting card, flowers, gifts, and fancy dinner. It can be fun and exciting to shake things up. Get creative, express your feelings towards each other in a meaningful way to spice things up. For example, instead of buying cards, make them together. Instead of buying expensive gifts, participate in a couples painting or pottery class or do a paint-and-sip date at home using a YouTube video. My wife and I have done many of these and they are easy to get set up. Plus, after you have all the supplies you can do different ones in the future. Another idea is to avoid the busy and expensive restaurants and have a breakfast or lunch date together. Or opt for celebrating on the weekend and take a short day trip to some town you’ve never been to. There are so many fun and creative ways to change things and make wonderful memories together.
Date Idea Activity
It is common that when we are in a relationship, we will get comfortable and get into ruts. We often repeat the same dating activities or do nothing at all. This activity is a fun way to help couples bring creativity to planning.
- Find an empty jar, decorate it.
- Get some large wooden craft sticks or note paper.
- Write down date ideas individually or as a couple on the craft sticks or note paper.
- Place ideas in the jar.
- Draw an idea out of the jar when date night is approaching.
- Ask for help with ideas from friends and family.
During this Valentine’s Day season, couples can work together on being creative and exploring new ways to show love and appreciation. Regardless of what you and your partner decide about Valentine’s Day, valuing each other throughout the year is important. One of the most meaningful things we can do in a relationship is to communicate and show each other kindness, understanding, and respect.
