Friends I have great news, January is almost over and Valentine’s Day is just around the corner! If you haven’t thought of what you’re going to get your significant other (or significant self) yet, I’ve got you covered. Valentine’s day is traditionally about couples but I like to think it’s a great time practice self-love too by treating yourself to something nice!
If you find that the typical gifts are not quite right for your special someone, I have some creative solutions for the artist or creative person in your life.
FLOWERS THAT NEVER DIE
One of the biggest complaints I hear from people about why they don’t want to buy flowers for their significant other is that “they’re just going to die anyway” so it’s “a waste of money.”
Okay, fair enough. Another possibility is one or both of you might have an allergy to certain flowers which definitely puts a damper on things. That said, if you still want to get your loved one this beautiful display of affection, why not do it in the form of an art print or product? First find an artist that they love, or that means something to you, who sells flower prints or even originals if you want to make a grander gesture. Not only does this type of gift not have an expiration date, but it also makes it a more meaningful gift that they can enjoy for long afterward.
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GET DOWN AND PAINTY!
A popular trend over the last little while has been drinking and paint nights. The really great thing about these events is that A: You get to drink an alcoholic beverage if you’d like, and B: You really don’t have to be an artist to participate in one. This can be great for couples where one person is creative and the other isn’t. If you’re not the creative one and are willing to be adventurous, it can actually be a fun bonding experience. You also get to take home your creation at the end of the night to proudly display on your wall as a keepsake of the evening.
You don’t have to sign up for one on the actual day but even purchasing tickets for a future event is a thoughtful gesture that shows you care about their interests and want to participate in it together. Alternatively, if you are the creative one, it’s a less intimidating and fun way for them to share in something that you enjoy.
I ONLY HAVE SUPPL-EYES FOR YOU
The sure way to my heart and I’m sure many other artists, is definitely through art supplies. Admittedly, I have a bit of an obsession but receiving art supplies you love from someone you also love is definitely a joyous thing. This might require a little low-key research on your part to find out exactly what they want but it’s a definite 10/10 on the thoughtfulness scale.
BONUS TIP: Go the extra mile by wrapping paintbrushes or pens and pencils up in a bow the way you would on flowers or display them in a cool mug or small vase.
If your intel attempts fail or the pressure is too great to make the decision. You could sign them up for an art supply subscription box service like Artsnacks. Each month your lucky other will get a box full of art supplies to try out to their heart’s content. Artsnacks even gives you a candy in the box each month which also satisfies those with a sweet tooth.
Get 10% off your first month of ArtSnacks by clicking on this affiliate link: http://artsnacks.refr.cc/barbsotiart
SOMETHING FROM THE HEART
With holidays becoming more and more materialized, simply buying a gift you could find on any store shelf tends to have less meaning. If all else fails writing a thoughtful card that tells the other person what you appreciate about them is a wonderful gesture. If you’re creatively inclined, you could even make the card yourself. Another fun idea is to create a coupon book for your loved one, tailored to them. If you’re treating yourself, take this time to write down some positive things about you and really acknowledge it. You could also make the coupon book things you’re going to treat yourself to throughout the next year – facial, massage, etc. It may seem silly but the truth of the matter is whether you’re in a relationship or not it’s important to treat yourself with care and respect too.
Valentine’s Day can be polarizing for some but that doesn’t mean it has to be cliché or not fun. Finding creative ways to keep the day interesting and meaningful could help bring the spark back into a long-term relationship or fuel forward a new one. If you’re flying solo, don’t fret about the love birds around you. This day is for you too. Take that class you’ve been meaning to take or treat yourself to those pretty new colored pencils you’ve been eyeing up. Love comes in many forms so don’t be afraid to express yours in a way that is meaningful to you.
Do you have some creative Valentine’s Day gift ideas? Share with me in the comments!