When it comes to Valentine’s Day, most people either hate it or love it. I can’t say I have that strong of an opinion the holiday, I could take it or leave it. I really do love Valentine’s themed products at Target and all of the discounts on chocolate, but I can’t say I’ve ever really cared much for V Day as a whole. I hate how crowded most places get and all of the braggy Snapchat stories about promise rings and purses. Really, Valentine’s Day is usually an excuse for my friends and me to order heart-shaped pizza and get dolled up, or for my boyfriend and I to go on a fun date.
1. Make a Reservation
No matter how empty you anticipate a place being, try to make a reservation or do call ahead, if possible. The earlier you do this, the better.
2. Ordering in Is a Valid Alternative
So is taking your food to go. I prefer this over going out to a crowded restaurant on most days, but especially on V Day. You control the music, the movie, how dressed up or dressed down you want to be and, best of all, you don’t need to face the crowds.
3. Make Your Own Valentine’s Day
The 14th seems fairly arbitrary in the grand scheme of things, isn’t it? If you want to avoid crowds and booked restaurants, you and your S.O. or you and your friends can simply celebrate on a different day in February. This is the perfect way to celebrate without being caught in the crowds and excess. Plus, if you move it to after V Day, you can load up on discounted chocolate and candy.
4. Write Valentine’s Day Cards
I love writing heartfelt cards to my close friends, housemates and long-distance friends. Who doesn’t love receiving mail or having a kind card taped to their door in the morning? I usually write genuine, long cards and attach some candy. It’s such a simple act that can make a huge difference.
Remember, unlike elementary school, you don’t have to give a Valentine to everyone. Give them to someone who you’ve got something kind to say about! You can buy a pack of 8 cards for $1 at Target, or you can even write a sweet note on a sticky note. It’s all about the content…but a little bit of chocolate never hurts. I’m obsessed with the cards I found at Target…they have my signature heart-shaped sunglasses! Living for it.
5. Plan a Date with Someone Else
You don’t need an S.O. or a lover to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Take some of my Best Friend Date Ideas and schedule something nice with your favorite friend.
My Valentine’s Day Look
Some years I like to go all out with a red and pink look, complete with a heart on my cheek. This year, I opted for a more subtle (but still festive!) eyeshadow look, using some blush colors from The Nubian by Juvia’s, Tarte’s “Don’t Quit Your Daydream” palette and my Naked 3 Palette. It’s casual enough to wear all day, but it’s glam enough to rock during a date.
Plus, you can always add false lashes. I added them to this look to add some pizazz! My hairstyle is from this post: Lazy Girl Hair Hacks for Special Occasions. The world doesn’t stop for Valentine’s Day, especially not this year. Since it’s on a weekday, it’s highly likely you’ll have work or classes before your date or night out, so these hairstyles are all perfect for putting together in a pinch.
Above, I dressed the look down with a floral dress and boots, but I’ve also dressed it up with a sparkly dress in heels. The makeup and hair are both incredibly versatile. To be honest, I might end up wearing something even more casual on Valentine’s Day, depending on exactly how cold it gets. There’s no shame in that, either. I always prefer to glam up my face and hair and skimp on the outfit a little, you feel me?
What is your favorite thing about Valentine’s Day?
