10 ideas for a pandemic Valentine’s Day

To be honest, I hate that I’m writing this post. Like many of you, I have hit the so-called pandemic wall and just want it to all be over. I’m feeling burnt out but trying to stay positive by holding on to all the good news about the vaccine. It’s hard though, especially since we have been living in this pandemic world for almost a year.

Now more than ever it’s important to celebrate everything, big or small. I have always loved valentine’s day, even if I’ve never had a valentine (lol). It’s a holiday all about love, and I’ve embraced it. Usually I throw a party for my friends, but this year it will be different because a party would not be safe. I decided to do a flower arrangement sale in lieu of my party, and am donating half of the proceeds to Second Harvest Heartland, my local food shelf.

Over the past year I have created floral arrangements for rehearsal dinners, summer parties, holidays, and birthdays. It is one of my favorite things to do, and I love the creative outlet the flowers always provide. I bought flowers at the farmer’s market almost every weekend this summer. Flowers are such a simple thing that brings beauty to everyday life. So when I knew I couldn’t throw a party, this seemed like the next best thing…to share the love with flowers!

Aside from sending someone you love flowers, or buying them for yourself, I thought I’d share a few more ideas to make this valentine’s day special while staying safe. Without further ado, 10 ideas that I hope will inspire you to celebrate the love in your life…

1. a sporty valentine’s day

I have spent more time outside over the past year than ever before, thanks to the pandemic. Take your partner or a friend skiing or skating for a safe valentine’s date idea. I have skied three times already this season, and each time I go I forget about the pandemic because everyone is already bundled up against the cold anyways! My new favorite spot is Welch Village. It’s the perfect size, with windy trails through the woods.

2. cook dinner

Show off your cooking skills at home. Best part about doing dinner at home? You don’t have to worry about transportation, and can drink unlimited wine with dinner. Make it cozy and special by adding candles and a fitting playlist. I have a few good ones to choose from: valentines, hearts, and old soul.

3. rent out a movie theater

Did you know this is a thing? Check it out to see if it’s available in your area. You and your significant other can rent out the movie theater (for a new or an old movie) and literally have the whole theater to yourself!

4. take a stroll and picnic

If the weather’s nice enough where you live, I love the idea of taking a stroll and having a picnic. I wrote a whole post about the art of the picnic, if you need reference points. Being outside and enjoying the fresh air is always romantic. Bonus points if you find a rose garden or a beautiful river walk for your picnic.

5. soak in the bathtub

Taking a long bath has been one of my favorite quarantine activities. There’s nothing quite as relaxing or comforting, especially if you have the right bath salts (my favorite are from Aveda). Set yourself up with a glass of wine, maybe some chocolates, candles, and a good book.

6. go for a drink

Depending on where you live, you might feel comfortable going out for a drink. Best if you can sit outside. I desperately wish I could go listen to jazz and have a drink somewhere. That sounds like an ideal valentine’s date to me.

7. order in

Nothing better than not having to cook, but being able to enjoy your favorite restaurant from the comfort of your home. If you want to elevate ordering in, set the table nice with flowers, candles, and the best dishware you have (china, perhaps?).

8. visit the art museum

There’s nothing more romantic than viewing the Impressionist paintings and debating which painting is best. Or visiting the ancients, maybe even taking inspirations from jewelry created hundreds of years ago. Art museums are one of my favorite places for a date.

9. movie night with dessert

I know most of you might think the valentine’s day movie is cheesy, but it’s actually one of my favorites and I watch it every year. All of the intertwined love stories really get me. Have a movie night in with all the works: popcorn, wine, brownies, ice cream, macarons…you name it! Snuggle up and turn on your favorite romantic movie, escaping reality for the night.

10. staycation

The tourism industry is taking such a hit during the pandemic, why not go spend a night in a hotel to celebrate? I could definitely use the break from my house. I think having a small staycation, if you aren’t traveling far or meeting a large group, is a safe way to have the illusion of travel right now.