While 2021 is feeling distinctly optimistic, there are still stay-at-home orders across the country (and world) that will surely be causing this year's Valentines Day to look different than past years. But have no fear, there are still tons of ways to have a sweet and romantic Valentine's Day from the comfort of your own home. Here are some of our favorite stay-at-home V-Day ideas!
1. Candlelit Dinner
Source: Bachelor Nation on ABC Youtube
There have been 25 seasons of the Bachelor and in every single one there are candlelit dinners. Why? Because they're romantic as heck and they never get old! You probably have candles around your house already, but if not they are cheap and easy to find. I recommend unscented so the smells don't mess with your tastebuds. You can pair with takeout or make a special dinner with your honey.
2. Play "We're Not Really Strangers"
Source: We're Not Really Strangers
This board game is meant to "create and deepen relationships." I haven't played, but the questions posed on their social media pages certainly invite introspection and connection. This is also a good option if you are having a date over Zoom; it will keep the conversation going and you'll learn a lot about each other! They even have an "Honest Dating Expansion Pack," which, who doesn't want that?
3. Thoughtful Movie Night
Netflix and Chill has pretty much been the activity of the last 10 months, but hear me out. A movie night can be special if you prepare correctly. Get snacks and your cutest loungewear and choose a movie that has a special place in your relationship. Maybe if your first date was at a movie theater, watch that same movie (even if it was terrible)! Or if there is another movie that holds a special place in both of your hearts, you could even take turns shadow acting it.
4. Star Gazing
Hope for a clear night, because star gazing is one of the most special activities you can partake in with another person. Bundle up and get some hot cocoa, and go sit under the sky. If you live in an area with a lot of light pollution, try to get to as dark a place as possible and give it some time. As your eyes adjust you will be able to see more stars.
6. Learn a Dance Together
Whether its a Tik Tok dance, waltz, or bachata, all you need to learn is available online. You don't have to be any good, but dancing releases endorphins and learning something new together will bring you closer.
7. Map out a Trip
Traveling with a significant other is a magical thing, and while we are all missing vacations to faraway lands, you can have fun right now planning a future vacation with your partner. Print off a map and draw all over it, where you are now, where you'll go. You can look up hotels in the areas and activities. Get creative and use stickers for landmarks you want to visit, foods you want to try, etc.
8. Exchange Gifts
Maybe you've been eyeing some hypoallergenic earrings, or maybe your partner wants to give a gold chain a try. No matter what you get each other, it's always the thought that counts, and exchanging thoughtful gifts is a sweet gesture for any holiday.
