We’re not just about great weddings, we want to see long, happy, loving marriages too. While it’s easy to go overboard showing your love with something expensive, we wanted to find creative ways that people say “I love you” without breaking the bank. My personal favorite is number two, which I do often. For our first Valentine’s dinner I had made a multi-course dinner but my then girlfriend, now wife, had to work late so her cat and I ended up sharing the first course shrimp cocktail together. He approved and let me keep dating her and then marrying her. Here are the other ideas we came across.
- A Treasure Hunt!
This one seemed a little silly at first, but when we read more about it, we thought the idea was fantastic! If you are planning to get a gift or want to do something special for your loved one, surprise them with clues throughout the day. Hide all but the first clue and give them that one. As they uncover each clue, it leads them one step closer to a romantic surprise.
- Cook them an unexpected meal
A number of the articles we visited suggested cooking a favorite meal for that special someone in your life, but we like the idea of unexpected meal surprise (within reason, of course!) Take your loved one on a tasty safari featuring new and exciting foods. This doesn’t have to be an expensive meal, but can feature items that you’ve been both eager to try.
- Love Notes
This tried and true way is one that requires no purchase but can pack a truly romantic punch! From a post-it note in a coat pocket to flirty midday texts, a few words can go a long way in making your loved one feel cherished. You can take this idea one step further by crafting a handwritten letter that tells your loved one what you enjoy most about him.
- Take an evening to learn your lover’s favorite game or hobby
Does your partner love tennis or a good game of Settlers of Caton? Surprise them by taking an evening (or a day!) to learn the rules and basics of their favorite game or hobby and then inviting them to take part in it with you. Even if you aren’t a master of the trade when you play together, the gesture of you taking the time to learn their favorite activity will be felt and appreciated.
- Be with them.
This one seems SO obvious, but this is often the hardest to accomplish. When we’re together, it’s so easy to be perusing social media on our phones or playing Wordle to distract ourselves. Instead, take time in the evening to put the devices down and spend time together without the distractions. You’ll be amazed to find how much more that you will get out of your time together when you do that.
Valentine’s Day can be a great time to really show your loved one affection, but none of these tips are specific to a holidays. These are suggestions of inexpensive ways you can share with your partner how much you love them each and every day.