At-Home Valentine's Day Date Ideas

Let’s be honest and say that 2021 isn’t the polar opposite of 2020 that we declared that it would be. This plays a big role in big moments that we are accustomed to like Christmas, Birthdays, and the revered Valentine's Day.

Contrary to what my love of rom-com and mushy stuff may lead you to believe, I’m not typically one to thrive on a mandated holiday or date. Something about the expectations surrounding these “carefree and beautiful times” stresses me out and I feel anxious or get upset. Am I alone in this?

It sounds like an at-home Valentine’s may be the perfect thing for an extroverted introvert like me!

With that noted, I took a moment to ponder and browse ideas for how to make the best of Valentine's Day.

(something to note: I heavily encourage you to support local whenever possible. I cannot be sure that you are located in the same area that I am, so most of my suggestions are found on general websites. But you could easily take my ideas and find a way to implement them wherever you live!)

1. Movie or Movie Marathon - One of Walter and I’s favorite activities was going to the movies. Typically we would use these romantic holidays as an excuse to go see a movie and splurge on the food we like at a dine-in theater. With COVID running rampant, we haven’t been to a movie in quite some time. A way to maneuver around this is to get creative! You could check to see if your local movie theater is offering the ability to purchase popcorn and snacks and you could grab them for your movie night in! You could also order food in to get a similar experience. Drinking at home is a lot cheaper! If you struggle to pick a movie that you and you’re partner will both enjoy, make a decision to each select a movie and the other has to respect the choice. View Movie Night Necessities
   

2. Video Game Night - This may not apply to all couples, but Walter and I really enjoy video games. I do have my limit for watching him play, but I notice he enjoys when I get into playing a game and will sit out and (try to) be supportive and helpful. This could be a great time to bust out that Wii you haven't played in a decade and gear up for a Mario Kart championship. See What We'd Play
   

3. Board Game Night - This is by no means revolutionary for some, but others may not always make time in their routine to enjoy a good board game night. If you are more of a pro, maybe you should pick up a new game or buy an expansion pack for a gay you already own. View Some of Our Favorite Board Games!
   

4. Self Care Night - 2020 was the year of self-care for most, but maybe you splurge on some fun skincare or masks to try while you enjoy some wine or a Netflix binge. A nice and relaxing bubble bath may also be what's needed to relax and unwind. It may seem simple, but maybe that’s just what you need to relax and enjoy your partner's company. See My Self Care Faves!
   

5. Online Cooking Class - One thing I’ve really wanted to do with Walter, despite his lack of interest in cooking, is taking a couples cooking class. It would be a way for me to enhance my skills and also force Walter to participate in the cooking of a meal. Places like Sur La Table and Masterclass offer online cooking classes, which give you a list of ingredients necessary and have a range of cuisines available. Sur La Table Online Cooking Classes Cooking with the New York Times Masterclass
   

6. Takeout or Delivery Time - If designing a romantic evening is too overwhelming or would go unappreciated, pick a restaurant you’ve wanted to try or your staple fave to pick up appetizers or a nice meal. This way you worry less about cooking or preparing a meal and enjoy time together. Get $10 off your first 3 Orders w/ DoorDash Get $20 off your first order w/ UberEats use code: eats-taylorb19628ui

7. Bonding Games or Quizzes - If you are a bit more sentimental, you may appreciate a nice opportunity to learn more about your partner and yourself. There are quite a few options when it comes to books or quizzes. I keep getting ads for this "Intimacy" card deck that promotes a "deeper connection with your partner" that could be fun if your partner is willing to play along. I've also seen a book of quizzes that you can fill out and find out who REALLY knows their partner. This may lend itself to an evening full of good conversation and even laughs. See My Picks!