Chris and I love to get each other a little gift for Valentine’s Day, but my favorite gift is an experience gift — and I’m always scheming. Read on for 10 ideas for things you can do together to celebrate your romance, and leave your best ideas for unforgettable dates in the comments, honey.
Create a custom scent
Quickly search Google perfumeries in your city. Many fragrance houses will help you create a custom scent and even keep it on file for you. If you’re having a hard time finding a perfumery in your area, there are plenty of finder/sample kits you can play around with at home (Le Labo and Tom Ford have great ones). Just make sure you get your sweetheart a bottle of his/her last fragrance and come up with a romantic name for your concoction.
Pack a picnic
I know what you’re thinking — it’s too cold for a picnic. But I’ve had great success with this, even in the snow. Pack thermoses of hot chocolate or soup. Roast marshmallows on the mini fire pit (easy to transport!) and snuggle up under cozy blankets. The rosy-cheeked selfies you take from this experience will live on for years to come.
Organize a chocolate tasting
If your partner has a sweet tooth, go for it. Instead of buying them a chocolate sampler, why not grab all the fancy chocolates in the international aisle and do the ultimate taste test: Which is the BEST? Grab some nuts, cheese and fruit for a palate cleanser and make little score cards. This makes for a delicious date night.
Arrange a tryout
Has your partner been on the hunt for the perfect pair of jeans? The best moccasins? The most comfortable pajamas? Use your credit card and arrange the ultimate gadget at home. If you want to go BIG, organize a swimsuit trial and — “Surprise! Let’s go to the beach!” (Also, nothing says “I love you” like putting back all the pieces that didn’t work.)
Go on a tasting tour
What is your honey’s favorite food? Organize a small tasting! Who has the best fries in your town? Or, who has the best Brussels sprouts app? Plan your “tour” on sweet Valentine’s Day and go on a date in multiple locations. Pro tip: This works best during the day, when you have a few hours to expand your tasting. ‘Another pro tip: Try this downtown, where you can potentially park once and visit three to five restaurants.
Rent a theater
This is easier than I thought! You can rent a movie theater for a private screening starting at $99. Some theaters charge by the hour, some charge by audience size, and some have a specific list of movies you have to choose from — but almost all theaters offer it. There may also be a minimum snack purchase requirement, so prepare to spoil your Valentine with popcorn, candy and slushies.
Rent a mansion
Are you married to Sporty Spice? Court rentals are very affordable (only $3 per hour in Raleigh/Durham for tennis, pickleball, basketball, volleyball, or indoor soccer). If you want to tackle him/her — lawn lights are only $60/hour locally. Check out your local parks and recreation and surprise your Valentine by reserving a space just for the two of you.
Make a ring together
I’ve seen a few of these courses/workshops offered in our area, and they look so cool! The idea is to choose materials that are meaningful to your relationship (I read about a couple who made a pinball ring because they met playing pinball. Sweet!).
Take a cooking class
Chris and I like to order Thai takeout and he’s pretty good at making curries at home. But I know we would have a blast in cooking class, learning about one of our favorite foods. Many places offer this for couples or dates – so even if it’s not private, it’s fun to experience with other Valentines who are out on the town.
Secretly book an overnight stay
Make a reservation at the hotel’s fancy restaurant — or dress up and enjoy drinks and snacks at the bar. Surprise your partner with a room key when the bill is delivered to you! Go the extra mile and pack an overnight bag for him/her already waiting in the room. Go extra go the extra mile and pre-order room service for breakfast and enjoy the gift of sleep.
