For some, the idea of Valentine’s Day can be met with dread. There are so many expectations. Not only do you have to find the perfect gift, but also the perfect way to celebrate. Even those who prefer not to celebrate aren’t safe. Inevitably, questions will arise over the stability of a relationship when a couple does not celebrate a day meant to be shared with the one you love.
Valentine’s Day is even tricky for relationship counsellors. Some think it should be celebrated while others are dead against it. However, the true meaning behind Valentine’s Day could be getting lost in all the noise. There’s always something unique about the love shared between two people and celebrating this doesn’t have to be extravagant, in fact, it’s often the simplest acts that are the most sentimental.
Common mistakes people make on Valentine’s Day
While some believe that you can’t go wrong with love, you can, in fact, go wrong on Valentine’s Day. Whether you’ve been in a relationship for 2 months or 20 years, there are some common Valentine’s Day mistakes that should be avoided at all costs.
Treating this day just like any other
Walking into Valentine’s Day like its just another day could set things off on the wrong foot. Glossing over the day leaves no opportunity to express feelings of love or admiration for your significant other.
Settling for the ordinary
While some may think that a romantic dinner is a perfect way to celebrate the day of love, it’s might not be the best place to share a special moment with your partner. The restaurant could be crowded and longer than usual wait times could cause unnecessary stress.
Tips for planning a special Valentine’s Day gesture
Planning a sentimental Valentine’s Day isn’t as hard as it may seem. All that anyone wants is to be shown how much their significant other cares about them and the life they have created together. Ideas, like writing love notes or sharing a fun experience, are a great place to start.
Sharing the load
Valentine’s Day isn’t about one person showering another with love. In fact, it’s about the two people who are in a relationship expressing their love in their own way. This day could be a perfect time to collaborate and get input from both parties. For example, one person could choose what meal they’ll have while the other person could choose the activity they’ll do afterwards. You’ll likely find that you have similar ideas and anything you don’t end up doing can go into the bank of future date nights!
Being flexible
Sometimes work schedules can get in the way of planning Valentine’s Day celebrations. However, this shouldn’t be a reason to cancel plans altogether. There are 24 hours in a day and also different days of the week that can be utilised in order to celebrate properly. Busy parents could go out for lunch while the kids are at school. While shift workers could delight in a Valentine’s breakfast before work. In fact, if you can’t celebrate the 14th, make V’Day a different day of the week altogether.
Celebrating with hobbies
Instead of fancy dinners and expensive activities, why not try participating in each other’s hobbies? The fact you will be together & doing something you love is a good recipe of fun. It’s also a good opportunity to show your support of your partner’s skills and potentially develop a habit of more spent on hobbies.
Share an experience
There is no better way to bond than by sharing experiences. The experience can be something like taking part in a cooking class or delighting in a hot air balloon ride. As long as it’s something to remember forever, the idea will be a winner. Planning a special experience shows more thought and care than buying a card and a box of chocolates.
Revisit a cherished memory
There is nothing more sentimental than reliving a special moment in your relationship. If you still think back to a moment in your relationship, be it your first kiss, date or where you proposed, find a way to recreate the day. You could visit the local restaurant where it all happened or see a live band who plays your special song to recreate the moment.
Make it a family affair
Love & family usually go hand-in-hand and Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be the exception.
Making it a family affair is a chance to spend more quality time with your kids, parents, parents-in-law or other members of your extended families. Celebrating with the family could include sharing a home-cooked meal or writing each other meaningful letters.
Write a special love letter
A heartfelt letter can be the gift that keeps on giving. You could steer from the traditional and try a collection of shorter ones which you can scatter them throughout your home as little surprises. Your significant other can read about just how much you love them, making it a simple idea yet treasured gift.
Valentine’s Day at the Cooly
Celebrations are a speciality of the Coolangatta Hotel and Valentines’ Day is no exception. Share a cosy dinner with that special someone, topped by an evening of 70s disco with tribute band, Disco Disciples.
