What to Do for Your First Valentine’s Day as an Engaged Couple

You and your partner undoubtedly followed the traditional Valentine’s Day plan when you were dating: cards, flowers, chocolates, and a romantic meal for two. Even though we adore those tried-and-true romantic traditions, now that you’re engaged, you might want to take things a step further. After all, most couples are only engaged for a year or less, so this could be your “last” Valentine’s Day with your fiancé(e). As a result, we recommend going off the beaten path!

Though you may always go as big as you want, out-of-the-ordinary doesn’t have to mean spectacular, extravagant, or even costly. Instead, make this Valentine’s Day about non-material methods to demonstrate your love. Spending a couple nights out of the home together, reminiscing about your honeymoon phase, or even simply cooking a meal together are all romantic ways to celebrate your love before the wedding without resorting to clichés or breaking the money.

Here are seven unique ways to celebrate your first Valentine’s Day as an engaged couple, as well as ideas to keep in mind for future romantic holidays with your partner.

Go Back to the Beginning

Take advantage of this Valentine’s Day to reflect on all of the reasons you’re getting married. Take a trip down memory lane (or an actual trip) to the beginning of everything. Make a reservation at the restaurant where you first said “I love you,” or go back to the location where the two of you got engaged. Looking at old images from when you first met could also be entertaining – chances are, it’ll bring back memories that will make you smile or laugh out loud.

Save for the Wedding

Flowers, champagne, and fine chocolate can be costly, and they may not fit into any budgeting plans you may have in place to save money for your destination wedding. Instead of going all out, go for a budget-friendly romance. Make homemade cards instead of buying flowers, drink prosecco instead of champagne, and roast a chicken instead of eating prime rib. Alternatively, if you don’t feel like cooking, grab some cheap takeout and make a night of it.

Wait a week or two if you still want that special date-night sensation. To escape increased rates and crowds, go out for a night on the town when it isn’t actually Valentine’s Day.

Get Away

If you’re getting married this summer, you’re probably already in the middle of the preparation process and might use a break. So why not make Valentine’s Day a pre-honeymoon date? Unplug as much as possible at resorts like Sunscape Cancun or Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall, set up an out-of-office email response so your wedding providers know why you’re not replying, and concentrate on each other. In a few days, you’ll be feeling renewed and focused, and you might even have some new ideas.

Relax With a Spa Treatment

A full-fledged spa day for two will take that couple’s massage to the next level. Massages, cleanses, manicures, and pedicures are all available, and don’t forget to relax in the sauna or whirlpool. Sign up for a yoga or meditation class if you really need to clear your thoughts. If you’re on a budget, find some zen at home: take a warm bath, light some candles, and download a meditation app so you and your partner can relax without leaving the house.

Cook a Meal Together

Use Valentine’s Day as an opportunity to express a little extra love if the best route to your S.O.’s (or your own) heart is through mouthwatering cuisine. Take out your favorite cookbook and choose a recipe that is both tough and new to you. Make it an experience by scouring the neighborhood for those essential elements. Then mix up a batch of your favorite cocktails or crack open a bottle of wine and get to work in the kitchen! You’ll end up with a delectable supper and some new culinary abilities. Sign up for a cooking class that focuses on a new cuisine or skill if you need a bit more help.

Stay In

Planning your Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be challenging. You can always express your love in the privacy of your own house. Don’t feel obligated to make a huge deal out of February 14th – especially when you have so much on your plate arranging a wedding – whether it’s breakfast in bed, a romantic movie marathon, a candle-lit bath, or just your regular routine (with an extra kiss and maybe a lovely note).

Start a New Tradition

You’re undoubtedly wondering about how your lives will look in the future now that you’re on the verge of marriage. Why not use this as an occasion to establish a new Valentine’s Day tradition that you may carry on for years? It’s the perfect time to celebrate your love while developing new traditions, whether it’s crafting a special dinner that you’ll reproduce year after year, making a reservation at a restaurant you’ll want to return to, or organizing a romantic getaway.

Looking for a few more ideas to wow your partner without breaking the bank? Follow the link for our 8 Romantic and Affordable Valentine’s Day Ideas

Express Your Love with This Valentine’s Gift Guide

 Valentine’s Day is a beautiful opportunity to express your heartfelt love and gratitude toward your significant other. With countless gift options available, the quest for that perfect present can seem daunting. Our Valentine gift guide is here to ease your search, offering a diverse range of personal Valentine’s gifts and romantic experiences to share together. 

Whether your partner delights in romantic gestures, personalized treasures, or exhilarating experiences, our guide has Valentine gift ideas to captivate every heart. Make your lover smile from ear to ear with a Valentine’s gift that speaks volumes about your affection, leaving an indelible mark on their heart. From bespoke art pieces to a weekend away, what personal Valentine gifts would make your beloved’s day?

7 Sweet and Personal Valentine’s Gifts

1. Cocktail-Making Kit for Cozy Evenings

Elevate your at-home date nights with a cocktail-making kit, a hands-on gift for Valentine’s Day. This kit invites you and your partner to mix, shake, and stir your way to delicious concoctions, turning an ordinary evening into a fun and interactive experience. Share the joy of creating cocktails and toast to your love in the comfort of your home—you could even design a custom cocktail just for them!

2. The Melody of Love

Music lovers will cherish a live concert experience as their Valentine gift. Select the perfect performance that resonates with your partner’s musical tastes and head out together for a night on the town. Whether it’s an intimate night at a romantic jazz bar or a funk and soul jam filled with dancing, spending quality time together with the music you love is a guaranteed good time.

3. An Idyllic Valentine’s Retreat

Let the natural beauty of the beach be the backdrop to your romantic celebration this Valentine’s Day on a tranquil beachside getaway tailored for romance and relaxation. Idyllic resorts offering special Valentine’s Day packages will ensure your retreat is filled with sunset dinners, serene beach walks, and unforgettable moments.

4. Personalized Gifts That Speak Volumes

If you’re unsure when it comes to gifts, personalized gifts are the way to go. Find something that captures the essence of your relationship and reflects your journey together. From custom jewelry featuring the coordinates of where you met to bespoke art pieces made with them in mind, a gift that reflects your partner’s individuality will be cherished.

5. Cooking Class for Two

Whether your loved one is a culinary enthusiast or has a kitchen phobia, a cookery course for two is an incredible way to spend some quality time together. Remember to choose a cuisine you’d love to see your partner at home!

6. Thrill-Seekers’ Escape

For adventurous couples, gifts that offer an adrenaline rush, such as skydiving or white-water rafting experiences, will enhance your bond. Choose a safe yet exhilarating option and prepare to spend the day testing your limits, creating shared memories that will last a lifetime.

7. A Star to Call Their Own

Gift your special someone a celestial wonder — a star, officially registered in your partner’s name. This unique Valentine’s gift transcends the ordinary, offering a piece of the infinite sky that symbolizes your eternal love. A timeless piece of the galaxy will reflect the depth of your feelings, shining brightly in the vast universe for infinity.

8. The Date Bucket List Adventure

Surprise your loved one with a date bucket list, a collection of imaginative and exciting date ideas to explore together. This thoughtful gift promises a year filled with adventure, romance, and new experiences. Each date idea, from spontaneous road trips to cozy indoor picnics, is an opportunity to create lasting memories and deepen your bond.

9. Sentimental Journey through a Photo Album

Craft a sentimental journey with a personalized photo album chronicling your most cherished moments together. This gift offers a tangible reflection of your shared history, filled with laughter, love, and milestones. A storybook of your relationship will be a keepsake to treasure for years to come, not just a collection of photographs. Plus, think of the fun you’ll have reminiscing while making it!

Planning a Special and Meaningful Valentine’s Day

Planning a special and meaningful Valentine’s Day requires thoughtfulness and an understanding of what your partner values most. The key is to focus on personalization and quality time rather than just material gifts. Here are some steps and ideas to help you plan a memorable day:

1. Understand Your Partner’s Love Language: Everyone expresses and receives love differently. Whether it’s through words of affirmation, acts of service, receiving gifts, quality time, or physical touch, tailoring your plans to your partner’s love language can make the day more meaningful.
2. Start with a Personal Touch: Begin the day with a personal note or gesture. It could be a heartfelt letter, breakfast in bed, or a morning walk together. The aim is to start the day with a sense of intimacy and connection.
3. Plan an Activity Together: Choose an activity that you both enjoy or have wanted to try together. It could be a cooking class, a hike, a visit to a museum, or a wine tasting. The goal is to create new memories together.
4. Include Elements of Surprise: Surprises can add excitement to the day. This could be anything from a surprise picnic at a favorite spot to tickets to a show or a surprise video call from distant friends or family.
5. Focus on Quality Time: Valentine’s Day is an excellent opportunity to disconnect from technology and focus solely on each other. Plan to spend uninterrupted time together, whether it’s a quiet evening at home or a night out.
6. Customize the Gift: If you’re giving a gift, make it thoughtful. It could be something that ties into an inside joke, a shared memory, a hobby they love, or something they have been wanting.
7. Create a Romantic Setting: If you’re staying in, create a romantic atmosphere at home. This could involve cooking a special meal together, setting the table with candles, playing your favorite music, or watching a movie you both love.
8. Reflect on Your Relationship: Take time to reflect on your journey together. Discuss your favorite memories, what you appreciate about each other, and your dreams for the future.
9. Plan for Future Joy: End the day by planning a future activity or trip together. It gives you both something to look forward to and extends the joy of Valentine’s Day.
10. Personalize the Experience: Remember, what makes Valentine’s Day special is the personal touch you bring to it. Tailor the day to reflect your relationship and what makes it unique.

For those of us who are still looking for that perfect Valentine’s Day gift or date, we got you covered. Whenever you’re reading this, enjoy our top recommendations that’ll be sure to win your partner’s heart all over again.

What Should I Buy My Significant Other for Valentine’s Day?

Personalized LP Record

Add a musical flair to your evening with retro vinyl art, or a “record” of your journey so far. The label and album sleeve will be printed with your names, “title,” and up to 5 songs that mean something special to them, or to you as a couple. Created using a genuine recycled vinyl album, this playable gift is perfect for couples seeking a personal item they’ll always cherish.

Where It All Began Valentine

Commemorate where your relationship began via paper or canvas prints. The exact location will be marked with a single red heart using a map of a special location, while your names, activities, and corresponding date will be written underneath.

Love Coupons

With this free printable download, send your partner a coupon book full of great ideas that include options like breakfast in bed and no chores for the day (plus a blank for your own ideas). Or what about a coupon for a free trip to an all-inclusive resort?

Etched Drinking Glasses

Everyone loves personalized drinking glasses. With thousands of Etsy vendors specializing in customizable etched glassware, choose between a vast selection of shot glasses, pint glasses, and even decanters.

Flowers and Chocolate

It’s a classic combo that has stood the test of time. From traditional rose bouquets and heart-shaped chocolate to seasonal options and truffles, customizable arrangements can elevate your special day. Just remember: order your bouquet ahead of time to make sure your ideal arrangement is available!

What Shouldn’t I Buy my Significant Other for Valentine’s Day?

Nothing

Believe it or not, this does happen. Don’t show up to your Valentine’s date empty-handed unless agreed upon as a couple beforehand.

Any type of cleaning tool, supply, or appliance

Unless it’s a high-end cleaning tool like a Dyson vacuum cleaner or hairdryer, avoid appliances that can be purchased on any other day. Valentine’s Day only happens once a year, branch out a bit.

A jewelry box…that doesn’t pop the question

Jewelry is an excellent Valentine’s Day gift…just be aware of the packaging. If you intend on proposing on Valentine’s Day, then by all means. But if you’re purchasing jewelry such as earrings or bracelets, make sure to request appropriately-sized gift boxes.

Seal Your Love with the Perfect Gift

If you want to go the extra mile, why not check out this list of Valentine gifts for her and him, and blow their mind with multiple creative Valentine’s Day gifts? This special day is the chance to let each other know how much you care, so make it count by going above and beyond. This year, make Valentine’s Day an extraordinary celebration of your love.