I know, I know. You hate Valentine’s Day. I feel like I see more negative, anti-Valentine’s Day posts in my Facebook newsfeed every year, and read more articles written about how awful V-day is than I ever see about people even moderately liking the holiday. And while I can certainly understand the anti-V-day sentiment (of course you should show your love every day, not just one day a year—no argument there!), since it is also my day of birth, I really try hard to embrace this oft-hated-on Hallmark holiday.
Before you roll your eyes and stop reading, just hear me out—you don’t have to be in a relationship to enjoy February 14. At the very least, it’s a fun excuse to get friends together for drinks and put on a pretty dress, or maybe order your favorite take-out and cuddle up on the couch with your pooch. Here are four Valentine’s Day dates—and some ideas for how to do them stylishly—for even the Scroogiest of Cupid-haters.
Go Ice Skating
Since it’s not really a traditional Valentine’s Day activity, chances are you’ll probably have most of the rink to yourself. Grab your SO or a group of friends, bundle up in sweaters and jeans, and grab some hot cocoa at the rink for a fun and casual V-day. Go for a drink at your favorite dive bar on the way home from the rink, and say “Cheers!” to avoiding the mad dinner reservation rush.
Make Dinner With Your SO
Get creative and plan a fun meal (maybe something that neither of you has made before) and get in the kitchen together to cook! I mean, why battle the crowds if you can make a romantic meal together in your own place? Take time to actually set the table (maybe with some fun new place settings), get flowers, and light some candles. Dressing your table can be just as fun as dressing yourself!
Have Your Girlfriends Over for Homemade Cocktails
Who better to celebrate February 14 with than your dearest friends? Dress up in something fun that you haven’t had the occasion to wear in a while, and have the ladies over for some homemade cocktails (how often do you really take the time to pull out those vintage tumblers?). Have everyone bring an appetizer to contribute, and, if you’re feeling ambitious, make a glitzy homemade backdrop and set up a camera and props for fun shots with your favorite ladies. Try making this backdrop in pinks, reds, and golds, then check out our Pinterest board for some yummy and swanky cocktail ideas.
Cuddle Up for the Evening
Cozy up at home with your SO, your pup, or even just yourself—no shame in some good old alone time! Order your favorite Thai food, watch a couple of movies, and enjoy a nice glass of wine. OK, so for some of us that sounds like a Tuesday night, so indulge a little bit by buying some extra-luxurious loungewear for yourself beforehand. Hey, you’re saving money on dinner, so you deserve to reward yourself with something special (and cozy) to wear while you’re hanging out on the couch.
