Amplify your love

Show your appreciation for loved ones in a way that makes them feel special

Love makes the world go around. As social beings, humans need the connection of others. February 14 is a celebration of those connections, rather than romantic love. Celebrating the people who have improved your life becomes important when you want them to know how much you appreciate their presence in your life. As time wears on, quality time and effort are the key aspects that keep a relationship happy and healthy. For example, have you been paying attention to any hints your Valentine has been dropping for the big day? If you're still scrambling for ideas, the best source is, after all, the person you're gifting. The ultimate Valentine's Day is one that is well thought-out and holds special meaning.

So, how can we express love on Valentine's Day, and the rest of the year, that is unique to our loved ones? Read on to find out.

Keep it simple

According to relationship expert, Dr Lucy Wood, keeping it simple is a good rule of thumb, as it doesn't need to be one day of the year where we focus and become more aware of our relationships. The key is to always keep the person you are celebrating in mind and mould the day to their liking. Alternate between who plans Valentine's Day, so everyone get the chance to create the perfect day.

Gratitude attitude

Show your loved one how grateful you are to have them in your life. Make it special for the person with a few personal twists. When you write out cards, specify why this person has bettered your life, purchase customise gifts, and cater the day towards them. Like I said before, Valentine's isn't just about a partner, your parents, friends and family also deserve appreciation for the joyful times you've had together.

It's the little things

It's not just the thought that counts, it's the action that makes for the great story. For example, when giving flowers don't just stick to roses, find an expert florist to create a beautiful bouquet with the receiver's favourite flora. Pay attention to your dressing. ladies do up your hair, makeup, and maybe even wear some heels. Gentlemen, a tie, cufflinks, polished shoes go a long way. Decorating a room with balloons, flowers, scented candles and having a home-cooked meal, are affordable and thoughtful ideas.

Memorable gifts

When you're thinking of a present, don't go to what you know they always like or what they buy for themselves anyway. A voucher to their favourite clothing store is a nice thought but not the best option. Instead, purchase a voucher to something they normally wouldn't treat themselves to, like a spa day, a mini staycation for a later date, breakfast in bed, or if they are an avid reader, a membership to a book club. The key is to buy them something that will make memories.

Break the routine

If your Valentine has been in your life 'since forever', they probably know you all too well. One of the reasons Valentine's Day is considered the holiday of love is that we tend to think outside the box and break our usual habits. Surprise them with a little extra pizzazz than they expect from you; be spontaneous during the day. Make it interesting by planning things the other would never have dreamed of you. When they see that you going all out for them, the feeling will be like no other.

Virtual Valentine's

We are all trying to stay safe and responsible right now and celebrating at home might be just what the doctor ordered! There are tonnes of activities that you can do at home with your Valentine and still have a perfectly awesome time. Cook meals together, marathon romantic movies or have a board game night. If you're unable to be with your loved one in person, have a virtual call with them and eat cake and open presents you ordered for each other together, while being oceans away. Use this day to call up friends and family who are overseas and celebrate with them.

Bucket list bonus

Is there anything you have wanted to do with your Valentine but not got around to yet? Make a list of those and tick them off on Valentine's Day. It could be absolutely anything: whether that's skydiving, road-tripping, hiking or even just staying up all night watching chick flicks.

This day is all about love, and by showing our love to others, we are the ones who benefit the most. Since Valentine's Day is on a weekday this year, many may not be able to celebrate it on the day, map out a day that both of you can enjoy stress-free, with each other. Let's show our loved ones how much they mean to us.

Music in a glass

Spotify glass art is an amazing customised gift for your loved one. Choose an image and a meaningful song.

The gift features a code, which when scanned, plays your most song on Spotify. It's made on an 8x10 inches glass and is perfect for gifting!

One-of-a-kind pastries

Right now geometrical heart-shaped piñata cakes and cake bites decorated in red, pink and gold colours are trending. These cakesicles, which can also be turned into hot chocolate bombs, are beautiful to gift to your loved ones. Support a local small business and purchase these @Khadija'sKitchen on Instagram.

"Love comes in many forms! For me, it's the day I focus on the amazing people around me that have supported me and are always there for me. So I make sure to reach out to them and wish them a loving and happy day!"

Magdalena Bjork

Brand Manager

Ixora Organic Skincare