Feb. 14 is a day full of mixed emotions – for some, Valentine’s Day is filled with love, gifts, and companionship. For others, it’s a day full of nothing but reminiscing on past or unrequited loves. No matter your circumstances, you should still try to spend your day in good spirits. Here is a gift guide for the lovers, loners, and the in-betweeners.
For The Lovers
In my opinion, interactive gifts are always a great choice. You and your partner get to create a memory and when everything is said and done, you’ll have something physical to commemorate the moment. Surprise your Valentine with a custom puzzle featuring a photo of your choice; maybe it’s a picture of the two of you, maybe it’s their pet, the world is truly your oyster with this gift. Another top pick of mine is flower Lego sets, they are so much fun and allow you and your partner the chance to get back in touch with your inner child.
This next option isn’t interactive, but it certainly is one of a kind. Get your partner the gift of themselves with a personalized Funko Pop. If you aren’t confident about communicating your feelings verbally, here is an adorable way for you to show your partner how much you appreciate them. Why I Love You Jars are one of the best presents you can give a person in my opinion. I gave my first boyfriend one of these and thought it was tedious, but it reminds you just how special that person is to you by the time you finish. I promise, your partner will be so thankful. Besides giving your Valentine a gift, make sure you tell them how much they mean to you because words speak louder than presents.
For The Loners
Now, if you find yourself riding solo on V-Day, there is nothing to be embarrassed about. Sometimes with busy schedules, it’s easy to forget to take care of ourselves. Take this as an opportunity to give yourself the gift of self-care. Self-care is an umbrella term, whatever sparks joy in you, I classify it as self-care. Most people imagine a spa day when they hear the phrase “self-care,” but it is so much more than that.
One of my favorite things to do for self-care is go to a Paint and Pottery shop. If you’ve never heard of it, there are an abundance of other chains just like it, for example, Color Me Mine. If you’ve never been to one, you select a pre-made piece of pottery to paint and design. The choices range from mini figurines, plates, and bowls – I’ve even painted a mushroom house.
What I am basically saying is the possibilities are endless. If this sounds like something you would enjoy, check out the Color Me Mine located at 25 E 3rd St. on the Southside of Bethlehem. A bonus of being on the Southside is that after you finish painting, you can enjoy a nice meal with yourself at one of the many fantastic restaurants on the strip. My personal favorites are Hi-Pot and El Jefe’s Taqueria.
Another gift you could give yourself is the gift of comfort with this pajama set or wearable blanket. Lastly, nobody is taking a bath at college, so as an alternative to bath bombs: give yourself the gift of aromatherapy through shower steamers. I only recently discovered these and they have completely elevated my shower routine. Choose your favorite scent, place it in the shower, and let the water do the rest!
For Your Friends
For some, Valentine’s Day is not just a day spent celebrating significant others, it is a day dedicated to celebrating and appreciating all loved ones. If this sounds like you, here are some of my favorite gift ideas for friends. With the winter weather, it’s important we stay as warm as can be. Fluffy socks have never disappointed anyone, so keep your friends toasty this winter season. Another way to keep warm during these chilly months is with a buddy – a fluffy buddy. Jellycat is a beloved plushie brand that sells an assortment of huggable friends.
Hopefully, this list has given you some clarity on what to get your Valentine or perhaps inspired a new idea you never thought of. No matter how you choose to spend your V-Day, make sure you smile and show the world some love because we need it now more than ever.
