Valentine’s Day - from the high street to the perfect personalised gif
It feels like it sneaks up on us quicker every year! No sooner has Christmas been and gone, then Easter Eggs are in the shops and Valentine’s Day is all over the TV ads. Pink and red hearts and flowers cover cards on the shelves. And chocolates and flowers shoot up in price – that’s if you are quick enough to get any!
Yes, 14th February is the most romantic day of the year. But, as with everything else, this Valentine’s Day will probably be different.
Some haven’t been able to see loved ones since the beginning of 2020, when going out for a romantic meal for two suddenly became a distant memory, or something we promised never to take for granted again.
On the other hand, some of us have done nothing other than spend time with loved ones!
Everyone has their own story.
If you’re still here and reading this unscathed, then let’s look forward to this Valentine's Day.
Valentine’s Day in 2021
So, what do you have planned?
A quiet night in with a takeaway or home cooked meal, a bottle of your favourite wine, and a movie? A ‘single friends’ or family quiz night on Zoom? Or you might be looking for other, not so traditional, things to do this year.
And just because we can’t go out and celebrate our love, doesn’t mean we have to miss out altogether. There’s plenty of other options, which you can ‘Valentine’ theme up, or down, as much as you like:
- Put your phones and gadgets down and spend quality time in each other’s company. With just about every social media channel going crazy, it’s very tempting to watch what everyone else is doing. But make this time for you!
- A cake-bake or cooking dinner together. Decide on your favourite menu ideas and make it a special time when you create the dishes together. You can even include the children if you want – afterall, Valentine’s Day isn’t just about partners, it’s about showing your love all round.
- If you can’t decide on the menu, or need a little help in the kitchen, sign up for a virtual cooking class. Or cocktail making class. There are so many virtual possibilities now which we probably wouldn’t have entertained before the Pandemic. And you can do these whether you are together, single, or as a group.
- If you’ve not had enough of binge watching already, then do it on Valentine’s Day! Movie night, box set, whatever your choice. No interruptions, phones off, pure undisturbed enjoyment. Set up camp in your favourite space, home cinema, popcorn – make it real!
- Indulge in a home spa experience. Relax in the comfort of your own home, and let the stresses and strains just drift away.
- A games night – traditional board games like Monopoly are keeping plenty of us entertained. Or online quizzes between your friends and family.
Not just for couples
It’s not all about couples though. Why not celebrate being single? Enjoy Valentine's Day or wait until 15th February to celebrate Single Awareness Day!
Nothing makes the world a brighter place than to give and receive a little bit of love. And showing your love and appreciation for yourself, friends, or family is just as important, even if you are on your own.
Take some time out for yourself - we all need it right now.
Businesses, too, can use Valentine’s Day as a way of showing appreciation to staff, colleagues and customers with personalised cards and gifts. They don’t have to be ‘lovey dovey’ and with a bit of inspiration, this could be the ideal opportunity for your business to stand out from the rest.
Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas
Depending on your budget, the world is your oyster. And with so many gift ideas being made ‘letterbox-friendly’ there’s really no excuse for letting your loved one miss out this year!
Whether you’re shopping for male or female targeted gifts, of course chocolates and flowers always go down well. Their favourite perfume or aftershave, or clothes will always be a winner.
For something different, how about naming a planet after them?
Oh, and Gonks, they seem to be a favourite this year. Although personally, I’d rather be able to see their eyes, not just their big nose and huge beard! They are kind of cute though.
Why personalised gifts mean so much more.
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The standard ‘high street’ type gifts are great. But how about being a bit more creative? You could really outshine yourself this year by showing your love or appreciation with a bespoke gift.
To receive something that is personalised and unique to your loved one, or both of you as a couple, shows just how much you know that person. How much you cherish yourrelationship. And that you feel they are worth the extra thought.
It doesn't have to break the bank but might mean the world to the recipient. Anything from a framed photo in an engraved frame, a piece of clothing with personalised printing, a special name, phrase, or image on an item they can use, or display, which reflects your relationship.
We’ve had requests for special messages to be printed on t-shirts and hoodies. Heartfelt pictures on mugs and mouse mats – something that will be used every day.
And of course, serving up a surprise message on a heart shaped cake will bring your Valentine’s Day meal to a perfect end!
There really is something for everyone – yourself included. We can come to the rescue, even if you’ve left it to the last minute!
And finally, enjoy your Valentine’s Day ….
Whatever you have planned, whoever you are lucky enough to spend time with, or if you are on your own, make sure you enjoy it. If there’s one thing this Pandemic has taught us, it is to love and appreciate everything we have. Even if you’re not one for saying it with words, a Valentine’s Day bespoke gift with a special thought behind it, might just do it for you.
Stay safe, enjoy yourselves,
Ryan, and all at Sweet Tops