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It’s almost Love Day—the perfect time to show your loved ones just how much you truly care for and appreciate them. Whether you’re celebrating with your partner, family or friends, everyone deserves to feel a little extra special on Feb. 14!
A Pinch of Sugar: Basic but Sweet
“If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” You can never go wrong with a traditional gift! Bring on the romance and corny knick-knacks.
- Flowers: To elevate the usual bouquet, make your own! Trader Joe’s has the best selection of cheap yet beautiful florals; grab some greenery, some baby’s breath and a pop of color. To gift it, take your TJ’s bag and some ribbon, and wrap.
- Candy: Everyone needs a sweet treat sometimes. Instead of the typical heart-shaped box of truffles you can pick up from any old grocery store, pick up some Trader Joe’s Mini Heart Cookies, or order a gift box of Swedish candy from BonBon.
- Stuffed Animal: You can never be too old to enjoy the comfort of a fluffy friend! For optimal relaxation, consider splurging for a Jellycat, a weighted stuffed animal or, better yet, a heatable stuffed animal (especially perfect for the cold weather or easing that time of the month).
Double Batch of Dough: Luxurious and Lavish
Perhaps you’re in a long-term relationship and looking for a way to one-up last year’s V-Day gift. If that’s the case, and you’re willing to spend a little extra dough, here are some ways to spoil your sweetheart.
- Perfume/Cologne: Transitioning from the body spray/Axe phase to elevated fragrances is a rite of passage. T.J. Maxx has a lot of good perfume and cologne options (I’d recommend checking them out in store so you can give them a sniff in person). Target also has a wide selection of fragrances.
- New Tech: If you really want to spoil that special someone, consider upgrading their current tech/devices. Perhaps they could use some new noise cancelling headphones (Amazon has a wide range of price points) or a fast charger. Or maybe they’re a die-hard reader who might enjoy a Kindle.
- Specialty Jewelry: A little something shiny tends to be a safe option. To make sure your valentine can savor it for years to come, check out Gorjana for some waterproof, tarnish-resistant jewelry, or take them to Rose & Co. for some permanent jewelry.
Time to Bake: Experience Over Final Product
Material goods aren’t your thing? If your love language is quality time, I’ve got some suggestions for you!
- Tickets to an Event: Good memories are one of the best gifts you can give. Rather than a physical item, surprise your valentine with tickets to an upcoming event, whether it’s a musical or play at the Landmark Theatre, a comedy show with their favorite comedian, a concert or even an upcoming movie.
- Take a Class: Spending quality time with your loved ones is the best way to celebrate the season of love. Whether you’re into cooking, arts and crafts or dance, there’s a hands-on learning experience in the area that anyone can enjoy!
- Dinner and a Show: What’s better than a simple dinner date? A delicious meal followed by some karaoke! If sushi is your jam, check out Ocean Sushi Syracuse, decked out with private, soundproof karaoke rooms. Or grab a bite at a restaurant of your choice, then head to Singers Karaoke Club when you’re done.
Try a New Recipe: Unique and Different
Finding a way to make Valentine’s Day special year after year can get tricky. If you’re looking for a new way to express your love and appreciation, try something a little untraditional.
- Try a New Recipe—Literally: The key to anyone’s heart is through their stomach! If you have a passion for baking, find a fun recipe on Pinterest and gift your loved ones with some festive sweet treats. If cooking is more your style, rather than making a reservation somewhere fancy, play restaurant: decorate the dining table with candles and Valentine’s decor and make that special someone a nice homemade meal.
- Pressed Flowers: While a fresh bouquet of flowers always does the trick, try surprising your valentine with a long-lasting floral arrangement. Etsy has some gorgeous pressed flower decor, and Venus Et Fleur has a few cheaper, long-lasting alternatives.
- Personalized Candle: Instead of running to Bath & Body Works, check out Homesick. They have a large variety of scented candles to cater to your loved one’s unique personality.
Sweet talk aside, we hope you have a happy Valentine’s Day!
Written By Maggie Anderson ’25, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications
This article is for reference purposes only and is not deemed an endorsement by Syracuse University.