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I’m pretty sure all of the hype around Valentine’s Day was created by greeting card companies and the corporate greed of capatlism. However, Valentine’s Day is undoubtedly a day dedicated to love, but why limit the celebration to just one day a year? If you aren’t feeling like feeding the mass market monster, explore alternative ways to cherish your relationship throughout the year, creating lasting memories that go beyond the traditional heart-shaped chocolates and roses.
1. Monthly Mini-Adventures:
It can be so hard to find a moment to plan a date especially with work or children in the mix. Break the routine by planning monthly mini-adventures. It doesn’t have to be overly planned or expensive. Whether it’s a spontaneous road trip, a hiking excursion, or a cooking class, these experiences will strengthen your bond and create a treasure trove of shared memories. Write ideas on popcicle sticks and when you are feeling up for an adventure, pull an idea out and bring your partner along. Make sure to snag a few pictures of your adventures together to remind you how much fun you can have as a couple.
2. Random Acts of Kindness:
In highschool, I had a friend tell me a story about a couple tha would leave sticky notes for each other that simply said “SHMILY”. SHMILY was an accronym for See How Much I Love You. The couple would share these notes back and forth by leaving them in the bathroom, slipping them into a lunch bag or even on the steering wheel as a reminder that the other person was thinking about them. Surprise your partner with unexpected gestures of love. It could be as simple as leaving a heartfelt note or preparing their favorite meal. These small acts of kindness show your love in everyday moments.
3. Themed Date Nights:
Ever wanted to learn Italian over Tiramisu with your significant other? Now is the time to do it. Choose a theme for your date nights and immerse yourselves in a new experience. Rope your best friends or kids into helping set the atmosphere or play key roles like servers or mariachi band members. A themed date doesn’t have to be expensive to be fun. From recreating a favorite movie scene to having a DIY picnic under the stars, themed date nights add a touch of creativity to your relationship.
4. Volunteer Together:
Many volunteer organizations see a trendous lulll after the holidays. Strengthen your connection by giving back to the community. Connecting over your shared cause will bring you and your partne closer. Volunteer together at a local charity or participate in community events. The shared experience of helping others can deepen your bond and create a sense of purpose. Doing a little service for you community can do a great service to your relationship.
5. Tech-Free Weekends:
Most of us know we are on our phones way more than we need or even want to be. Unplugging would probably improve most of the relationships in our lives. It is no surprise that unplugging would also help reconnect you to your partner. Unplug from the digital world and spend quality time together. Engage in face-to-face conversations, play board games, or enjoy outdoor activities. A tech-free weekend allows you to reconnect on a deeper level.
6. Learning Together:
Explore new hobbies or skills together. Whether it’s taking a dance class, learning a new language, or trying out a creative workshop, the process of learning side by side adds a sense of growth and unity to your relationship. Learning a new language together might just give you and your partner a new way to communicate when you are navigating social interactions. A couple that hobbies together always has something in common to discuss. Make a list with your partner of everything you would like to try or learn how to do. You might just discover your partner has more talents than you realized.
7. Memory Lane Movie Night:
Do you remember the first movie you watched together? What about the first one you watched in a theater with them? Did you camp out to watch a midnight release? Create a movie night featuring films that hold sentimental value for both of you. Reminisce about the early days of your relationship and enjoy a cozy night in reliving those cherished moments. Grab some nostalgic snacks to really make the night magical.
Conclusion:
Valentine’s Day is not an accurate reflection of your relationship. By embracing alternative ways to celebrate your relationship, you can create a love story that unfolds throughout the entire year. That isn’t to say not to celebrate. If it is important to your partner, make sure to meet their needs but also have a conversation about why that specific day holds so much imortance. From spontaneous adventures to small acts of kindness, these experiences will not only strengthen your bond but also make every day a celebration of your love.
