It’s the day where chocolate and flower sales go through the roof, and public displays of affection are seen everywhere you look.
But whether you’re a lover or hater of the occasion, there’s no denying that Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to share the love.
Dating for two-and-half years, local couple Ben Hull and Shauna Hooper said it was important to put in the effort each year to make the day a special one.
“Just like you get a day dedicated to your birthday and all that, it’s a day dedicated to us, it reminds you to take that day no matter how busy your life is,” Mr Hull said.
For those in long-term relationships, coming up with a different present each year can get difficult, not to mention expensive, but finding the perfect gift doesn’t necessarily mean spending big.
“Normally we make our gifts, and we put a $10 limit on them,” Mr Hull said.
“Last year, I made two candles that combined with a cut-out love heart and the first year I made a bookmark.”
A gift for him can be as easy as decorating his favourite beer with a special message or putting together a modern version of a mix tape with all your favourite songs on a USB stick.
For the lady in your life, treating her to some hand-made coupons will be something she’ll definitely appreciate.
But if getting creative isn’t your strong point, you can always opt for a picnic in the park or better yet, take a trip to the drive-in and watch a movie laying under the stars.
And while there’s nothing wrong with buying a more traditional gift, Mr Hull said that putting a little extra time and getting creative will make that gift a little bit more special.
“You put a lot more thought into it rather than going out and buying something, and at least with something you’ve made you can look back on it,” he said.
Lauren Suttie is the Weekender’s General & Community News journalist.
