(Photo by Samantha De La O)

How-To: DIY Valentine’s Day

And we’re back! It may be a little late but Happy New Year. Now that January is over, it’s about that time again. That’s right, we’re only a few weeks away from everyone’s favorite candy filled, heart felt pretty in pink holiday, Valentine’s Day. Yes, you read that right and no, I’m not being sarcastic. Give me a chance to explain where I’m coming from and I promise you’ll agree with me. I know that the biggest date night of the year can be stressful for many reasons, which is why I made this little list of How-To’s to help make the 14^th just a little easier for you. Not only are these pretty affordable for any budget, but they can be fun for friends, couples, and even some well deserved “me time” after a long day. So, if you couldn’t book that reservation on time, wanted to be a little creative, or maybe just need an excuse to do something fun for the night, this is the list for you.

Netflix Drive In

Sure, seeing the latest movies at the local theater is great, but with the stress of finding parking and waiting in line, there has to be a better option. Lucky for you, there is. Because what if you could watch your all time favorite movies or shows with all the sweet & salty movie treats from the comfort of your own home? Now, this is going to take some work but trust me, it will be worth it.

All you need is:

1. Your favorite junk food or movie snacks (popcorn, soda, hot dogs, candy, etc.…).
2. Your “big screen” for the night (a projector would be great, but the TV in the living room works just as well).
3. If you’re feeling a little creative, grab a few sheets, some string light and scroll through Pinterest to find out how to make a good old fashion living room fort.
4. And, of course, the movies!

If your DVDs are lost somewhere in that cabinet you forgot you had like mine are, don’t stress because Netflix and Hulu are always there to save the day.

Hike and a Picnic

For those who are a little more active, then why not go on a morning hike and finish it off with a picnic? I know, this sounds like something straight out of a cheesy Chick Flick but if you’ve got the right weather and the right spot, a picnic is always a good idea. The best part about this is that the only budget you need would be for the picnic food if you don’t already have everything at home. Now, you can obviously make whatever you want to eat, I’ll just use my favorites as a reference.

You’ll need the following:

1. Plenty of water, because regardless of the intensity of the hike water is always a must.
2. Large blanket or sheet, as long as its big enough to sit on.
3. Picnic basket or cooler (just be sure they can be left in the car without the food spoiling or light enough to carry on the hike).
4. Ice for the cooler, napkins, forks and plates.
5. Food, such as BLT sandwiches, chips, macaroni salad, drinks, dessert (cake, fruit, cookies).

Dine in Dinner

We’ve all seen those commercials where the family is gathered around the kitchen counter cooking a gourmet meal delivery recipe. If you’re like me, and want to try this but have never gotten yourself to actually do it, Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse. Prices for this can range quite a bit, but I can almost guarantee it will be less expensive than dining out. And most importantly, when it’s finished, you get the bragging rights and the title of being a Chef for the night.

Here’s your list:

1. A clean kitchen & fancy table setting (because we all know plating and settings are key in getting the perfect Instagram photo).
2. The perfect playlist to keep you moving, because cooking in silence isn’t exactly fun.
3. Ordering your meal kit from whatever company you feel fits your taste best:

• Blue Apron
• Plated
• Home Chef
• Sun Basket

Spa Night

If you’re well overdue for a little stress relief and your body could use a little TLC then a spa night might be just what you need. This one is easy to do. Here’s what you need.

1. A speaker and your favorite playlist
2. Comfy robes and slippers.
3. Face masks (you can buy some pre-made ones or find recipes online and make your own).
4. Refreshers (my personal favorites are mint-lime and strawberry infused water).
5. And last, but not least, SNACKS!

   Make a Day Out of It

Not much of a night owl? Or maybe you have an early schedule the next morning, and need to call it a night a little early? Not a problem. How about making a day out of Valentine’s instead of a night out? Every city has at least a few local hot spots that would make up the perfect date or spending the day out with some friends. Since every city has its own hot spots, this one is going to take a little more researching on your part. Don’t panic just yet, I’m not talking about anything intense. By research I mean look at your explorer page on Instagram or popular spots your friends post about on Facebook near you. To be honest, this is my favorite option on the list so let’s see what you think.

Here’s your list:

1. Make sure to clear your schedule for the day, just to give yourself enough time to really enjoy it.
2. Pick wisely, such as finding your top 5 or 6 stops and including at least one place to grab some food and refuel.
3. Timing is key, so check the hours they’re all open and then set up a plan for the day.
4. Lastly, have fun and take lots of pictures.

It’s not every day you’re out and about like this, so why not spam your social media with pictures and Snapchats….we’re all entitled to it every once in a while, right?

So, there you have it! My list of How-To ideas that will hopefully make your Valentine’s just a little more enjoyable no matter who you spend it with. I hope you have fun doing some of these, and if not maybe you can pass some ideas along or help someone come up with their own twist on Valentine’s Day activities. I know I’ll definitely be getting some friends together to start brainstorming out plans for the 14^th. Thanks for reading and Happy Valentine’s Day.