Simple Ways to Bring Valentine’s Charm Into Your Home
Sometimes this time of year can start to feel like a drag. January usually seems to be quite long, grey, and dreary after the holidays have wrapped up. By the time February rolls around we all have enough cabin fever to put our faith (and sometimes our money) into the fickle visions of a clairvoyant groundhog. With the looming threat of six more weeks of winter, we all could use a little brightness, levity, and something to look forward to!
Valentine’s Day has always been one of my most favorite holidays. I love the hearts and bows and doilies and ruffles… the flouncy motifs just speak to me! I love the creativity and the frivolity and the heart shaped sprinkles. To me, it’s just fun, and everyone needs more fun this time of year!
For this post, I’ve gathered a few of my favorite ways to bring some extra cheerfulness and charm into our lives this Valentine’s Day!
Use What You’ve Got
Even if you don’t typically go all out for V-Day, I bet you’ve got a little something tucked away in your home that would count as Valentine’s decor! A red table runner from Christmas, strawberry print napkins from a summer picnic, the heart shaped photo frames your kooky aunt gave you, a bag of pink starbursts in the pantry, or paper streamers left over from your last birthday party. It doesn’t take a lot to make things feel a little extra festive, and resourcefulness don’t cost a thing!
Make a Floral Arrangement
Almost every grocery store has a floral section, and a lot of them have really great options! Trader Joe’s in particular is a star when it comes to unique and affordable floral finds. Costco and Sam’s Club have lovely large bouquets at a fraction of the price of the florist, and craft stores like Michaels always seem to have something fun to offer in their aisles. Don’t be afraid to mix it up, add some greenery, or incorporate garnet and amethyst hues! I’d also recommend strolling a local greenhouse or nursery and checking out their indoor potted plants!
Sew Some Seeds
While we’re on the topic of plants, now is the perfect time to get some seeds started! Many flowers and cool season vegetables do best when they get their start this time of year! Depending on your hardiness zone and what you like to grow, getting your garden started in mid-winter might be the best choice! Plus, watching new seeds sprout is so exciting and rewarding!
Try a New Recipe
One of the best ways to infuse a little extra creativity into every day is through food. Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to try something new. Make a batch of mini heart shaped pizzas, raspberry curd pavlovas, creamy roasted garlic and beet pasta, or a cherry chocolate ganache tart.
Craft with Your Stash
If you’re anything like me, you probably have a stash of craft supplies just waiting for the perfect project. Yarn, felt, ribbons, buttons, fabric scraps, or pretty pieces of paper can be transformed into something charming and festive. Tie ribbons around vases or candles, cut out paper hearts to tape to your windows, sew scrappy quilted baubles, or write little love notes to tuck away for a loved one to find.
Make a Playlist
Music can make an ordinary moment and give it ambiance in a way almost nothing else can. Spending a little time curating the perfect hype music for washing dishes, a collection of soft jazz songs for your next dinner party, or put together a list of power anthems for your workouts. A playlist can make a road trip more fun, chores less mundane, and your work day go by faster. You might choose Paul Anka, Chappell Roan, Fleetwood Mac, Frank Ocean, or mix of all of them. The possibilities are truly endless!
Read a Romantic Novel
Whether you love classic romance like Pride and Prejudice or more contemporary rom-coms a la Tessa Bailey, this month is the perfect time to lean into the romantic reads! Pair your book with a nice scented candle, a glass of wine or hot chocolate, and a comfy blanket and you’ve got a perfect evening in!
Thrift Mismatched Dishware
One of my favorite ways to add something that feels unique to my home is by finding vintage items for my table. Next time you’re at an antique or thrift store, go on the hunt for delicate floral teacups, pretty pink glassware, or elegant silver-plated trays. The best part? These finds aren’t just for Valentine’s Day, they can bring a little bit of magic and whimsy to your kitchen year-round!
Host Friends and Family
If there was ever a holiday made for brunch, it’s Valentine’s Day! Invite a few friends over to share a spread of sweet and savory treats. Serve heart shaped waffles, pink mimosas, a spread of pastries, or a beautiful fruit and cheese board. Set the table with fun candlesticks, fresh flowers, and thrifted dishes. You can go all out or keep it simple, but sharing a meal with loved ones is always worth celebrating!
What are your most favorite ways to bring extra charm into your home?
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