Sometimes this time of year can start to feel like a drag. January usually seems quite long, grey, and dreary after the holidays have wrapped up. By the time February rolls around some of us 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 relish in 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 this time of year, and you might just find something you’d like to try out!
Get Creative with What You’ve Got
Even if you don’t usually decorate for Valentine’s Day, I bet you’ve got a little something tucked away that would double as Valentine’s decor! A red table runner from Christmas, strawberry print napkins from a summer picnic, the heart shaped photo frames a friend gave you, a bag of pink starbursts in the pantry, or paper streamers left over from a birthday party. It doesn’t take a lot to make things feel a little festive, and resourcefulness doesn’t cost a thing!
Make a Sweet Floral Arrangement
Almost every grocery store has a floral section, most of them have really great options! Trader Joe’s 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 always 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 plants for longer lasting foliage!
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 an early start! Depending on your hardiness zone and what you like to grow, getting your garden started in mid-winter might be the best choice! Watching new seeds sprout and early spring bulbs begin to emerge are one of the most joyful little things about this time of year.
Try a New Recipe
Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to try a fun recipe that might feel too fussy or fancy for a weeknight. 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 on fancy cardstock to tuck away for a loved one to find. Above all, have fun with it!
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 set up the perfect cozy evening in!
Thrift Something Beautiful
Browsing local thrift and antique and thrift stores is one of my favorite pastimes. I love being going on the hunt and finding unique items that just speak to me. Next time you’re out an antique or thrift store, look out for the little things that make you smile… even if they are a bit impractical. Find delicate floral teacups, pretty pink glassware, elegant silver-plated trays, or the speckled vase that would be perfect for your spring tulips. The best part? These finds can bring a little bit of magic and whimsy to your home 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 treats and discuss your favorite Ali Hazelwood books or Kate Hudson movies. Serve heart shaped waffles, pink mimosas, a smattering of pastries and preserves, or a beautiful fruit and cheese board. Set the table with fun candlesticks, fresh flowers, and your favorite 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?
