5 Ways to Have the Best Valentine's Day Ever

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Valentine's day is one of those holidays that can either be super corny and overrated or a fun way to celebrate those you love. I am in the "celebrating ones you love" camp. I think it can be totally fun, if you set yourself up for a great day. Here are my 5 tips for making this the best Valentine's Day ever.

1. Set Expectations.

Whether you are married or in a new relationship our spouses are not mind-readers. I know I am guilty of thinking Mark knows what I want or what I am expecting. In the past, we've had some miscommunications where I ended up being upset because things didn't turn out how I wanted. I am learning that if I want something to go a specific way, I need to clearly communicate those facts.
For example: If I want to do something on Valentine's day I need to say, "I really want to do (blank) on Valentine's day and I would like you to plan it." Also, saying something like "I got your Valentine gift already is a great way to a. remind them Valentine's day is coming and b. let them know that exchanging gifts is something you want to do. The days of thinking he will read my mind are long gone lol. :)

2. Plan an activity.

I'm a huge fan of doing activities instead of just giving gifts. If you've read my gift guide: for him  you will see that I suggested tickets to a concert or sporting event. I think these are the best gifts because you are doing something together. Valentine's day is no different for me. I'm not saying I wouldn't be happy with the Kate Spade wallet from my Valentine's day gift guide (because I would totally love it) but making an incredible memory will last a lot longer. Plus most men seem to have a bad taste in their mouth when it comes to this sappy holiday. Change their opinion of the day by planning something totally awesome!

3. Skip the dinner craziness.

Going out to eat on Valentine's day is always risky. You have to make reservations way in advance or risk waiting a lifetime to get a table. Also, most restaurants have prix fixe menus... those are annoying. Skip the dinner craziness and stay home. Make dinner together using the Newlywed cookbook (even if you've been married for years) or try a new recipe. Being in the kitchen together with a glass of wine can be super romantic. Mark and I made fondue one year with our friends Sara and Dave. It was low-key and fun... my perfect kind of night.

4. Have a day date.

Pick something you know your significant other loves to do and plan a day date around it. Mark loves to golf and I sorta like it. I'm good for about the first 11-13 holes and then I'm over it. It just takes so long and my back starts killing me. I know, I know... I'm a whiner. Anyways, since I know he loves golf so much I planned a whole day around it for some Valentine's fun. I won't put all the details on here just in case Mark is reading :) If a whole round of golf isn't your thing maybe just go hit balls or go to a shooting range with your guy... whatever he is into! Also, this doesn't have to take place on Valentine's day. Pick another day and start with breakfast at their favorite place and let the day unfold from there.

5. Stay in.

Going along with skipping the dinner craziness, just skip the craziness of the day altogether and stay in. Mark and I had a lazy day last Sunday and it was SO NICE to be in comfy clothes, watching movies, and eating comfort food. Every so often we make a "floor fort" which is basically tons of comfy blankets and pillows on the floor. We watch movies all day and just relax together. You could take this up a notch by buying various cheeses, salami, crackers, and fresh fruit. Eat them on a blanket by the fireplace and watch your favorite movie. After all, the day is just about being together... it doesn't matter if that's in your pjs or in fancy clothes :)