As the final days of winter roll around and the sun begins to hover just a little while longer, one can’t help but feel the warmth just beyond the horizon. January turns into February,  marking the month of love, hearts not only feeling warmed but full. Love and admiration can be found around every corner, decorations of hearts pink and red don windows and walls, fun snacks made to share make their yearly debut and appreciation amongst valentines, friends and families can be felt tenfold. What can be better than a season dedicated to love? 

Now that it’s February, there is one common thought lingering in people’s minds – who will be my valentine? While asking a special someone – whether it be platonic or romantic, to spend the day with you may be intimidating, there are many heartfelt ways in which the question can be asked. This season of love being my favorite, I have compiled a list of some of the most creative and genuine ways to spend time together this Feb 14. 

Will You Be Mine? 

Traditional I know, but a simple Valentine’s day card can be created and customized in almost any way to show love and admiration. Breaking out scissors and glue, using construction paper to create fun shapes and include personal photos is an incredible way to make someone’s day! The creativity is endless here, as you can include any sort of drawing or inside jokes alongside a meaningful letter. 

A way to represent love, caring and appreciation for someone, the gift of flowers is a staple for almost any holiday or celebration. For those who find it hard to express their feelings through words, picking out the perfect bouquet of flowers to give someone meaningful on this year’s day of love could be the perfect way to show appreciation. Red and pink hues are more common and can appear in roses and peonies, but for those who want to take a more creative approach, carnations can create a beautiful bloom. For a wow factor, Calla Lily’s and Starburst Lily’s can add elegance to any batch of flowers. Baby’s Breath and snowdrops can be paired with any floral to tie everything together in a lovely way. 

A basket full of love is another creative and personal way to ask someone to be your valentine. A friendly teddy bear, fuzzy socks and snacks of choice can show someone that you truly appreciate them! Chocolates are always a must, and any self care item can be greatly appreciated, especially at the beginning of a new semester! 

It’s a Date! 

Now that you have a valentine, here are some fun and budget friendly ideas on how to spend the day together! 

A classic dinner can always be an amazing way to spend time together, whether it’s over a fancy four course meal or cooking pasta together in the dorm kitchen, there are many ways to customize a valentine’s day meal to fit your preferences! Restaurants like Molto’s or Old Post Tavern are great places to have a dressy sit down meal. Making recipes at home is another great way to spend time together, heart shaped pasta with sauce and protein of choice can be a fun way to add a little extra love to a warm meal! Personally, chicken parm with vodka sauce is a must! 

For those who find it a little harder to settle on one idea, play a game of rock paper scissors! It sounds silly I know, but it’s a fun and creative way to elude the pressure of creating the perfect date. Personally, I love going to Target – or any other grocer, and playing a round of rock paper scissors for each piece of the meal! From appetizers to dessert, it’s a fun way to create a new meal and try new things- whether it works together or not! 

For more sporty pairs, finding ways to get on your feet can be the perfect way to spend an evening together! Couples dance classes, rock climbing, or simply heading to the nearest basketball court and playing a few games can be a great way to have some healthy competition. 

Those who prefer a cozy night in may love a board game night. Playing cards or solving murder mysteries with games like Clue can be an incredible way to spend time together and with friends and away from the internet! If technology is your thing though, Mario Kart, Overcooked and Mario Party are just a few of the co-op games they may or may not leave you in some not-so-friendly competition! 

While these are just some ideas for how to spend this special day, love comes in all shapes and sizes, and Valentine’s day can look like a night in or a night out, it’s all about whatever fills you and those closest to you with the most joy! Love really can be found in each and every place! 

About The Author

-- Sophomore | Vine Editor | Digital Journalism and Marketing/Irish Studies --

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