If you're anything like me this new year and completely lost the ability to keep track of time since March 2020, then you may not realize that Valentine's Day is NEXT WEEK! But don't you fret, I have compiled a list of the best 10 last-minute and affordable gifts that you can give or activities you can do with your loved ones - lockdown safe. Perfect for a Valentine or Galentine!
*All pictures are taken from Pinterest!
PHYSICAL GIFTS
Flowers
I know what you're thinking - this is the most basic gift a person can give, and yet, it is the simplest way to make someone smile! Don't skip over the classics!
Edible Arrangements or Valentine's Day Inspired Desserts
What's that saying? "The best way to someone's heart is through their stomach" and personally, I 100% agree. There are tons of edible arrangements out there nowadays - charcuterie boards, salty foods, desserts, fruits, and more! If you want to stray away from traditional flower bouquet, why not gift a dessert bouquet - From Scratch MTL is currently selling some in Montreal *wink wink*.
Handwritten Letters
This is suuuuper cheesy, but hey, if your significant other is a romantic, they'll definitely love to hear these words of affirmation!
Self Care Basket
Let's face it, 2020 was a difficult year and the start of 2021 isn't any better. A perfect way to show how much you care and appreciate someone is to create a custom self-care basket. You can include their favorite things, such as candles, bath bombs, blankets, slippers, books, perfume, face masks, oil diffusers, tea, a journal, and snacks.
Jewelry
I saved this for last because it might have shocked some of you, but there are tons of local jewelry online stores or even retailers from Etsy that you can find some affordable, yet luxurious jewelry! I recently ordered from Evry Jewels (view 2nd picture) and I am so impressed with the quality of their jewelry for such an affordable price - they have pieces for men and women!
ACTIVITIES
Spend the Day Outside
So many of us are stuck inside all day, so why not take the day to get some fresh air and just be in the moment with your loved one. Explore your city together and support local businesses along the way! Or maybe, you like to be active - you can go snowboarding, skiing, or skating if you're in colder climates and for a hike, bike ride, or have a picnic if you're in warmer climates.
TikTok 4 Course Meal Challenge
Watch a video example here x
If you aren't TikTok obsessed like I am, then you must not know about this newest 4-course meal challenge going around. The "rules" are simple - play rock, paper, scissors with your s/o or friend, whoever wins the first round gets to decide where you'll get a drink, the second round winner decides on appetizers, third decides on the entree, and fourth decides on dessert. This is also a great way to explore and support local restaurants and it's a fun game to play to keep the day interesting and spontaneous!
Cook a Meal
Cooking a meal with someone you love actually increases the feeling of happiness and bonding with each other, thus making your relationship even better. And let's face it, it's fun to do an activity together and reap the reward right after - especially if it's food. Pour yourselves a nice glass of wine and enjoy the beautiful meal you poured your heart and soul into!
Board Game Night
For all you ~gamers~ out there. No, but seriously, if you want an evening full of entertainment, but don't want to do the usual Netflix movie night, then opting for a board game and wine night is the way to go! For all you celebrating Galentine's Day, there are endless board games you can play - might I suggest, For the Girls? If you're celebrating with a significant other and don't want to play card games, here are some suggestions: Fog of Love, Ticket to Ride, Scattegories, Codenames Duet, and Sequence.
DIY Wine & Paint Night
I've done this a couple of times with my boyfriend and honestly, this is one of the most relaxing and unwinding date activities. What's great about this activity is that it's super cheap - you can find all your materials at the dollar store (minus the wine)! Choose to either paint the same picture and make it into a little competition or just paint whatever you'd like to really unwind and just enjoy each other's company. Don't forget to play ~vibey~ music and pour those hefty glasses of wine!
Share your ideas down below!