We’re officially in the most loved-up month of the year, and Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. This year, though, we think things should be a little different. Rather than V-Day being reserved just for romance… what if we celebrate all kinds of love?
After the year we’ve had, we think spreading a little love among friends, family, neighbours, keyworkers and anyone else you think needs it is a great thing to do. So forget the traditional approach to Valentine’s Day and try something new for 2021. Here are some ideas…
A token of appreciation
For anyone who has gone above and beyond for you recently – we’re thinking people like your local postie, delivering all those late-night lockdown purchases every day, or the cashier at your corner shop, serving customers their essentials. A small gift for those who give that extra effort to help keep life moving will be hugely appreciated – a handwritten card, a gift voucher or a fancy candle are all safe bets.
A long overdue catch-up
For the friend you haven’t seen in a year, the sibling on the other side of the world or work colleague you lost touch with – on Valentine’s Day, make the effort to get in touch with anyone you haven’t spoken to for a little while. It could be as simple as sending a few love heart emojis to let them know you’re thinking of them, or you could arrange heart-to-heart cocktails over Zoom.
Something to make them smile
Times are hard for lots of people right now but if there’s someone in your life who’s struggling, reaching out and making them smile is a great way to spend your Valentine’s Day. It could be your working parent friend trying to homeschool two children, your single pal who lives alone or your elderly neighbour who hasn’t seen their family for a while. Pop a card in the post, send flowers, tell them a joke – anything to brighten their day.
Share the load
As workloads increase, homeschooling rumbles on and support networks are restricted, many people are finding the little things hardest to keep on top of. As an act of love on Valentine’s Day, why not offer to do an online shop for your colleague as they race to meet a work deadline? Or you could post some activity packs to a working parent to lighten their homeschooling load.
Keep the love going
It’s great to spread a little love on Valentine’s Day and make the people in your life feel appreciated… but it’s even better to do it all year round! If you can, keep your small acts of kindness and support going once the day is over and be there for your loved ones in ways they may not expect. Not only will it make them smile, but it’ll bring you joy, too. Happy Valentine’s Day!