Explore inexpensive ways of making this Valentine’s Day special. PHOTO | NET
The getaway to beautiful places, the cinema, exotic dining experiences, the expensive gifts, the surprises, the flowers, the wine are what people are planning to celebrate their loved ones this Valentine’s Day. But Covid-19 has hit harder in our financial lives that many may not afford to give special treats to their loved ones.
This is why an indoor Valentines’ Day is a great way to say “I love you”. You know the saying, home is where the heart is. So why go anywhere else for Valentine’s Day? While others scramble for dinner reservations and book expensive getaways, relax and enjoy a romantic night in the comfort of your own home. Here are creative ways you can turn your home into a romantic sanctuary and celebrate your love:
Prepare a romantic dinner
Most of us have a favourite dish from our favourite restaurant — the one we crave time and time again. Have you ever tried to recreate that dish at home? With a little internet research, you can actually replicate fancy restaurant meals at home. Start your day with a romantic breakfast in bed and crown it with baking cake and enjoy the wine with your loved one. All this is possible if you plan the day’s menus and get all the items you will need to use from the market from a day earlier.
Take a nature walk
Your plans to travel or to go for that getaway can come alive if you and your spouse decided to go for a nature walk. This is the best time to reignite the little things you enjoyed when both of you were still dating. A walk around the small hills around your area, occasional holding of hands, the trees and beautiful gardens, the conversation are all perfect opportunities for both of you to reconnect.
Taking a few minutes to get some fresh air outside with your sweetheart will help both of you clear your heads, focusing on nothing but each other without any distractions. Imagine cuddling up with your partner as you witness a glorious sunset. It’s not only free, but it’s also a memory that will last a lifetime.
Indoor ballroom
When was the last time you and your sweetheart went dancing? As we grow older, life becomes too busy. There is just too much to focus on our pursuit for success, wealth, and responsibilities associated with raising children.
Moving aside the living room furniture to create some space, cuing up some good music and dancing the night away, are all you need to make this indoor Valentine’s Day memorable. Experiment with some traditional ballroom dance moves such as Tango or Salsa with youtube tutorials or just freestyle it with your favourite music.
Binge on movies
There is no better excuse than Valentine’s Day to cuddle under a blanket and watch romantic movies. There are just way too many choices of the most romantic flicks to binge on. Or, for something more personal, you could snuggle and watch home movies or look through old photo albums.
Another idea is to watch the movie you went to see on your first date at the cinema. You can also catch up on the latest series and watch 10 episodes in a row as you sip on wine. This is a romantic way to look back at the early days of your relationship, and celebrate your future together.
Turn off your phone
Many people have become too addicted to their smartphones that 30 minutes without a phone feels like an entire year. In fact research shows that people have become too attached to their phones and are detached from their spouses in real life. People habitually interrupt meals or conversations by checking their texts.
Even at midnight, men and women are scrolling through Facebook or Whatsapp posts to catch up on the latest jazz or are deeply engraved in a group discussion about a man caught with another man’s wife. The simple act of unplugging our devices can go a long way in making this day feel a little more special. Unplugging on Valentine’s Day will let you and your loved focus on each other, without distractions.
Play games
Some relationships are too stale and boring because they are too formal and serious for life. Perhaps jokes, fun and play are what you need to breathe life into your relationship. Being playful and having fun is not just for children.
Research shows that games are a source of relaxation, and they build problem-solving skills, which can help strengthen your relationship. On Valentine’s Day, dust off your favourite board games, grab a deck of cards or play a round of Truth or Dare with your partner.
Of course, these ideas also work for date nights at home, not just on Valentine’s Day. Keep them handy year-round to celebrate the person you love. Saying I love you to your significant other doesn’t have to be an expensive venture. Do not beat yourself up on how to make this Valentine’s special. Be creative and focus on the little things.
www.opendoor.com
