Valentine’s Day isn’t about how much you spend on your loved one, but how much thought and effort you put into their gift. Your gift should be thoughtful, meaningful, and a way to express your love!
It is important to know that thoughtful gifts don’t have to be expensive. The gifts that stand out the most are the ones that were made from the heart and with your hands. However, Valentine’s Day is often seen as a time to get your loved one an expensive gift, but not all of us have the money for that, especially high school students. Many would take loved ones out for a fancy dinner, buy expensive jewelry, or just do chocolate and flowers. Which is a wonderful gift, but so ordinary and simple. Imagine adding another gift. It won’t cost a dime, but effort and time!
A love letter is way more than just words on a blank sheet of paper. Letters were written all over the world to communicate with loved ones before technology. This was because of long-distance connections, family, or to maintain relationships. Modern-day communication is now through sending instant messages from phones or computers. Well, yes, that is much more efficient and quick. A handwritten letter offers a deeper meaning. Unlike letters, text messages can be deleted and disappear, but hand written letters are a physical object that can be saved, held, and be reread for years and years. Letters are personal and come from the heart, especially when you use your own handwriting!
Around this time, stores are filled with heart shaped candy, red chocolate boxes, big plushies, and cute valentines cards, but there is just something truly different about giving a homemade, hand crafted valentine day card that is way more special than a store bought card. All you need is paper, colorful pens, pencils, or markers. Even if you aren’t crafty or good at art. This homemade gift means far more than any other expensive gift. For example, store bought cards that I have been given have been stored in a box, but the homemade cards I have been given from friends and family are kept all around my room. Every time I look at a homemade card, I am reminded of their love and effort. It isn’t just a card. It is a lasting reminder of their love and affection, which makes it more meaningful than any other gift.
A DIY (Do It Yourself) coupon is a perfect personalized gift for after February 14. This gift is thoughtful and selfless. It is given in a whole new way. Some coupon examples that would be perfect for your loved one could be, “One free hug,” “One free kiss,” “Foot/Back massage,” “One free ticket to do the dishes.” You could think of anything that you could do for them, and I bet they would appreciate it! It is simple, meaningful, and perfect for any kind of relationship you have whether it is family, friends, or the love of your life.
What is better than homemade food and treats? Usually, around this time of love, store bought chocolates or fancy restaurants dinners would be perfect for this occasion, but also preparing something that is made personally for a certain someone adds a more touch and heartfelt gesture. Plus, it is way cheaper, especially if you are on a budget. It could be their favorite meal, freshly baked muffins, cookies, or brownies. It could be anything! Homemade goodies aren’t just food. You can see the effort and time with the food that they present.
A “Jar of Reasons” is exactly what it sounds like! This is a creative way to express your love for someone! This jar of reason could hold slips of paper that have compliments, special messages, quotes, memories, or jokes that only you guys understand. Not only is this gift perfect for your loved one, but it will be a gift that keeps loving and giving after Valentine’s Day. All you need is a jar, a pen, and paper.
Love isn’t measured by price. It doesn’t matter how much you spend on your loved one, but how much effort and time you put into their gift. I am not saying don’t take your loved one out on a fancy gift, or don’t buy them expensive jewelry or flowers, or even chocolate. I am telling you to add a personalized gift that is specially made for them!
