Valentine’s Day is a funny time of the year. Whether in a relationship or not, you’re always presented with somewhat of a dilemma. For the perpetually single, this essentially boils down to whether to spend the day hidden under your bedsheets with a pot of ice-cream or to hang out with other moping single friends, clinging together as if all the happiness in your life depended on it.
For those of you in relationships, however, the dilemma is a little more nuanced. First of all, you have to decide if you’re going to buy your significant other a valentine’s gift at all – though, from experience, I wouldn’t recommend not doing so! Once you’ve decided to buy a gift for your significant other, the next question is one of scale.
Do you go for a grand romantic gesture? Perhaps an experience day for couples? Or perhaps making them a romantic meal ,with these charming Seletti neon ‘love’ lights hanging dutifully in the background?
The other option, of course, is to go for something small, something personal, something funny or quirky. At the end of the day, though, everything depends on the nature of the relationship and your partner. Valentine’s day, in this way, can seem like a bit of a test: how well do you know your partner, and what will they like?
Whilst this is something only you can answer, we do have a great selection of Valentine’s Day gifts for her and Valentine’s gifts for him to help you out best we can.
Alternative Valentine’s Day Ideas
Friends Day – Image Source: iStock
Another thing that needs to be remembered about Valentine’s Day is how culturally relative it is. Just because here in the UK it is standard to send some roses, chocolates and go for a meal, doesn’t mean you have to stick to this heritage.
A great way for couples and single friends alike to enjoy an alternate valentines day is to take inspiration from other countries and cultures around the world. In Finland, for example, the public celebrates, instead of Valentine’s Day, Ystävänpäivä – or ‘Friends Day’.
Instead of marginalising those who are single, a ‘Friends Day’ is a great way to celebrate everyone in your life that you love: friends, partners, and family alike. Indeed, weather permitting, having a ‘Friends Day’ BBQ or Party could be a great way to spend valentines day this year.
To aid your cause, we’ve got all kinds of great home and garden accessories. From Mixology Mason Jar Shot Glasses, folklore styled serving plates, fancy napkins and balcony BBQs, we’re sure to have something to make your party even better.
