Giving someone something special on Valentine's day is only as hard as you make it. The fact is, you certainly know your loved one better than most, and spending a few minutes considering their wants or needs is the best way to determine what can be a truly special gift or date on Valentine's Day.
However, we humbly offer these four simple-yet-effective ideas for a sweet Valentine's Day that's easy on the budget yet full of heart.
[1] Start the day off right. If you are fortunate enough to be married or live with your special someone, help them get off to a great start. Valentine's Day is a workday this year. Does your loved one start the day with coffee or juice? Kick their morning up a notch with freshly made coffee or freshly squeezed juice to greet them straight out of the shower. Or for even bigger bonus points, you can try the classic "breakfast in bed" ploy. Either way, you'll be waking up much earlier than usual to make your special someone's Valentine's Day a little better: and he or she will appreciate it.
If you're looking to show your appreciation for someone not in the same household, and you know their morning beverage preference (which you should!), show up to deliver hot coffee, fresh orange juice, a smoothie, or whatever they like best. It shows that you've been paying attention.
[2] Pick up the phone. It's the simplest way to show love on Valentine's Day: a phone call to give you best wishes and let your Valentine know you are thinking of him or her. Cue Stevie Wonder.
[3] A little elbow grease goes a long way. Does her car need a wash? Does he perpetually forget to water his houseplants? Taking care of a loved one's chore is a great way to show your fondness for them, especially in the context of something you enjoy together: like walking a dog, or washing a lingering sink-full of dishes. Effort counts.
[4] A nightcap. Similar to how starting the morning off right can make the whole day special, finishing the day off right can make it a lasting memory. A nice cocktail to say farewell to the day, or even a hot cup of tea with honey, is a relaxing way to spend time together before Valentine's Day is over. Two easy cocktail ideas for Valentine's Day follow:
Valentine's Heart--Red and sweet, a perfect Valentine's treat:
4 oz. chilled champagne or sparkling wine (prosecco, cava, etc.)
1/2 oz. of Chambord (raspberry liqueur)
Pour the sparkling wine into a champagne flute, and add Chambord to taste.
Sainted Love--Spicy Herbsaint leads the way to his or her heart.
2 oz. of Herbsaint (or substitute any absinthe)
1/2 oz. rye or bourbon whiskey
4 dashes of Peychaud's Bitters
1 teaspoon simple syrup
Serve shaken in a martini glass.
