The month of love is upon us and many people are looking to make up for lost time with the pandemic making Valentine’s Day celebrations particularly tricky last year.
This year we’re expecting to see a resurgence of showy displays of love as the world opens up even more. But, given the economic constraints of so many, expensive displays of love are not necessarily an option right now.
The traditional chocolates, teddy bears and flowers are great – although even those are quite pricey – so you might want to change it up a bit with something more unique, and budget-conscious, this year. Here are a few ideas to spark inspiration.
1. Go old-school with playlists
The mixed tape, once the quintessential show of affection for an individual, has sadly gone the way of the beepers, Walkmans and the recorder. But this doesn’t mean we have to right off this really heartfelt gesture of love! If you are signed up to a streaming service, you simply need to put together a playlist for your significant other, including a mix of songs through the ages that are meaningful to you both! Even if you aren’t signed up, many streaming services offer a month’s free trial, or free options with advert interruptions.
2. Hit the bookshop
For those book lovers out there, nothing says true love like receiving a new book to add to the collection. If your budget extends to buying a new book, then try support any local bookstores in your area. Alternatively, there are many charity shops that are always overstocked with a range of books spanning eras and themes. These can be bought for as little as R10, and you’re supporting a good cause at the same time! You can mix it up a bit by choosing a book for each other.
3. Disconnect with some wine
For many couples, the routine is to return from a hard day of work, gobble down some food and sit in front of the television binge-watching the latest show. Otherwise, it’s a case of having to continue working at home, if the job requires it. While relaxing with your favourite show is not a problem, the reality is that many couples actually don’t simply sit, chat and connect with each other anymore. Change things up this Valentine’s Day by disconnecting from televisions, computers and cellphones, open a bottle of wine or champagne, and have a meaningful chat with your partner.
4. Make a bucket list
Dreaming about the future is always a lot of fun, so why not use this Valentine’s Day to start planning your next adventures together. Your bucket list can be as extravagant as you want, but where budgets are limited, you can consider including simple joys like visiting the local museum, hiking through the woods, or learning a new skill. It’s important to have a shared vision and this is a great way to check you’re on the same page.
5. Take a class together
Every one of us have a skill they would like to acquire, but our binge-watching has got in the way of our ‘me time’. This Valentine’s Day, why not embark on a class together with your significant other. There are lots of cost-effective options online, otherwise you can research local professionals who give classes for a small fee. Dancing, woodworking, crafts, painting, cooking, golf… there are lots of options out there.
6. Each choose an activity
If you’re having trouble deciding what to do this Valentine’s Day, why not let each of you choose an activity so that you’re covering all bases? It doesn’t have to be anything too difficult – a walk around the block, watching a film together, or going through old photos. Anything that can be done together!
7. Do a quiz
For those competitive couples out there, quizzes are always a win! You can look online for any number of quiz options, or even take turns making up your own personal questions. ‘What car does cousin Jo drive?’ ‘When did my parents meet?’ ‘What’s our wedding anniversary?’. There can even be a prize for the winner!
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