By Corina Tan
A day dedicated to love is a day like no other. Demonstrating love is easy but the challenge comes when you are trying to find some unique way to celebrate it. There is no right way to celebrate Valentine’s Day, but if you are looking for new ideas on how to show your affection, here are some alternatives to make it an extra-special February 14:
Recreate your first date
Whether you’ve been together for 2 months or 20 years, your first date is always a beautiful memory to go back to. No matter what the circumstances surrounding it, whether accidental, comical or even if nobody liked each other at first, it still signifies a special occasion that ignited what would later become a beautiful bond. Reignite that spark by recreating it and reminding your loved one how significant that day was for both of you.
Create a love journal or photo album
Make or purchase a journal where you can write a fun memory, a story, or just something that you adore about your significant other. You can do it randomly or in chronological order. Add pictures to commemorate each entry and decorate it with cute stickers, drawings, and memorabilia from journeys that you have been on together. From ticket stubs to print out menus, these wonderful memories stored in one place is a heartfelt reminder of how far you’ve both come in your relationship.
Plan a relaxing vacation
Use a getaway as an excuse to fully disconnect from all other distractions, and escape somewhere together. Agree to turn off all mobile devices and isolate yourselves to reconnect and rekindle the love and passion that once was. Choose a location that you both would enjoy that’s in line with a mutual hobby or passion. From outdoor sporting activities to participating in cooking or art classes, the options are plenty as you spend this valuable time together, far from the hustle and bustle of home.
Write an annual Valentine’s love letter
Dig deep and write your sweetheart a love letter, expressing gratitude and all the things you adore about them. Don’t be afraid to make it heartfelt as Valentine’s is the perfect time to really say all the things you’ve wanted to say, but never found the right time to say it. This love letter can become a yearly tradition and keepsake that you both can look back on in years to come.
Plan a romantic bath
As far as ideas go, this one is the sexiest. Go all out with different choices of bath bombs, bath salts, essential oils, candles, music and rose petals to create a romantic bubble bath that you can enjoy together. Let the stress fade away, and spend this tech-free quality time bonding.
Play love song karaoke
Karaoke is always fun, whether or not its sung in or out of tune! Plan a time and a play-list of love songs to serenade each other in karaoke-style. It’s one of those ideas that is so much fun and you’ll be laughing and swooning in no time.
Plan a love-note scavenger hunt
Turn the day into a fun game by creating a scavenger hunt of love notes. Each note can be a reminder of a happy memory shared, and at the end of the hunt, have a romantic reward waiting. The reward can be a coupon for a romantic couple’s massage or have your sweetheart pick out your next holiday destination.
Create a couple’s vision board
Talking and planning about the future can be a great way to bond on a deeper level. Create a vision board listing all of your common goals and things you’d like to accomplish together. If it’s places you want to travel to, put up pictures of iconic symbols and place them on the board as a reminder of things to look forward to. Not only will you connect better but you’ll also improve communication within your relationship.