I understand that Valentine’s Day can be very unpopular. However, I personally am quite big on it. So, I have taken the liberty of curating a few date ideas for all of you (take ‘em or leave ‘em) to spend your valentine’s day. Yes, there can be SO much pressure to have the perfect gift, the perfect date and the perfect reservation (or any reservation in some cases) but it’s just still so sweet to me. I know that for many people, with so much to plan for, everything can feel the opposite of lovely. While gift-giving and receiving are great, especially to me (my love language), there are other ways to celebrate with the one you love.
Valentine’s Day can get such a bad wrap, but it is about love, chocolate and roses. Pretty much everyone could use more of that! So I implore the skeptics, to find someone they love in this world and do something they enjoy with them. Who knows, you too, might become a Hallmark Holiday Evangelical like myself. Think beyond roses and chocolate, they are a good foundation though.
Classic Dinner & Movie
If you’re looking for a dinner reservation BOOK IT NOW – or you will be stuck with Neflix and takeout. That said, you could also do Netflix and takeout as a great spin on this classic Valentine’s Day date. In fact, we have a whole blog about a Netflix watch list for Valentine’s Day if that’s your thing. You can cook also at home (depending on where you live you might have no choice) Reilly has got you covered though, so do not fret! Here is her proposed menu de jour that will have you pulling out all the stops but will be SO worth it. However, I must again stress, if you’re going for the classic dinner and a movie – book early. Other than that my advice is to dress up and be willing to try something new. Don’t go to your usual restaurant but rather try out a recommendation that has been on your list that neither of you has experienced before. Oh, and order champagne, obviously.
When it comes to movies there is a lot more uncertainty and restrictions. If theatres are closed or at lower capacity where you live, opt to rent a movie at home or find one that’s on Netflix or another streaming service. If this is your situation I recommend picking out your movie ahead of time, trying to choose a movie with your partner doesn’t scream romance for most couples.
Spa Date
This one is so low-key, you go somewhere and everything is taken care of for you. Do this if you’re worried about all of the stress of booking reservations, the crowds and getting somewhere on time but still want “plans.” My husband and I recently did this for NYE and it was great. We went to the Scandinavian Spa in Blue Mountain and were lucky enough to have great weather. Time spent on wellness is good for you and the people you love so this one seriously is a win-win. Book a couples massage for a nice cherry on top! Nordik Spa in Chelsea, Quebec should be high up on your list, especially if you’re going to eat too. In addition to being a wellness nirvana, they have a talented exécutif chef, with a menu worth checking out.
Spend the Night Away
If I’m being honest, this is my #1 choice for vday. I love going to Niagara-on-the-Lake’s Pillar and Post Inn & Spa (or any of the Vintage Hotels!!). The Prince of Wales is also gorgeous and romantic. The Millcroft Inn & Spa is another one that you should consider. Be sure to add on a reservation at the hotel’s restaurant, all of the Vintage Hotel’s have excellent dining options! You’ll also definitely want to take advantage of the spas at these hotels. This option might be my favourite because it truly is all of my favourite things in one.
Bake Something Sweet
I made the prettiest heart-shaped cinnamon rolls from Bravetart, they were delicious. A super easy recipe, one bowl and an overnight rise, they turned out amazing. Think Cinnabon, but made with love. Plus nothing says “I Love You” like something you baked. If cinnamon rolls aren’t your thing (then you have something wrong with you????), make it your own by picking a recipe you both love and making it together. Or you can always bake something for your amour and give it as a gift. Bonus points for heart-shaped treats. Giving something homemade is romantic and sweet! Cookies are always good and pretty much foolproof. Again, Reilly has you covered here. She also has a recipe for some gorgeous homemade chocolate bars which can be wrapped up beautify and given to all of the people you love, check it out here.
Hopefully, I have convinced some of you to give Valentine’s Day a second chance if you’re not so big on it. For those of you who are like me and love the day, I wish you the best in celebrating your love! One quick reminder, tell the people you love, that you love them. And while this is it from me, that’s not all there is to do. Check out these 33 unique ideas for Valentine’s Day dates if nothing on my list tickles your fancy. There are some pretty interesting ideas on that list. Let me know how you’re spending valentine’s day in the comments below. Also if you’re cooking at home Rachel has this curated wine list for all of you lovers.
