Great Ideas for Valentine's Day

It’s almost that time of year again. The flowers are out and all kinds of chocolate are on sale. Valentine’s Day is on its way.

Whether you’re a firm antagonist or a loving supporter of the holiday, there’s always seems to be some difficulties in preparing for the holiday. This year, my struggle was finding a gift for my boyfriend all the way in New Jersey and now that I’ve figured out my gift, I am willing to help out anybody who may be in need.

If you’re like me, then you’re a struggling college student who cringes to even spend $50 for a Valentine’s Day gift. Therefore, I highly suggest taking the inexpensive, but just as romantic gift route. In my first attempt to look for ideas, I went straight to Pinterest for great ideas for both boyfriends and girlfriends. It was filled with the most ordinary things that look ten times cuter with some incorporation of a heart. Either way, it is sweet and romantic nonetheless.

Some of my personal favorites are:

1. A jar full of popsicle sticks with cute, simple gestures. For example, one popsicle stick may say “Breakfast in Bed.” Just be prepared to stay true to your promises!

2. Homemade paper fortune cookies. In a few short steps, you can make great origami fortune cookies with adorable love messages in them.

3. DIY mugs: This a great way to start the day that has nothing to do with caffeine. These mugs can be customized with just a few Sharpie markers, or even pictures of you and your valentine.

Another tip I have as far as gift ideas are not to listen to old family superstitions! If your girlfriend wants a watch, get her a watch. It is very likely to have nothing to do with “him watching the time until he has to leave you.” If your boyfriend really wants a new pair of sneakers, then you shouldn’t worry much about “him wearing the shoes that you bought him to walk out.” I think it is safe to say that these old stories and superstitions can be ignored for this occasion.

Have a good idea on the gift, but nothing to do for the day? I think it is also safe to say that all dates don’t have to be ice skating in an outside skating rink, or going to a five-star restaurant in the city. I highly advise doing something that you both like to do for Valentine’s Day. Whether that means watching a movie marathon on Netflix, or watching your favorite team play on TV; not all dates have to be filled with hearts and flowers to be special.

Valentine’s Day can be a great excuse to really let that special someone know how you feel. That doesn’t restrict you to a significant others. Sometimes you can send a sweet and appreciative gift just to show your parents some love! Or a best friend. Or even a really special teacher. This day should really be whatever you decide to make it, and someone out there loves you- it never hurts to show them that you care as well!