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4 ways to treat your man on Valentine’s Day

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Cal Poly chapter.

Whether he’s been your boyfriend for years, months, days, or he’s just a fling, making someone else feel special on Valentine’s Day is almost just as fun as being showered with red and pink heart shaped goodies.  

However, most guys don’t really enjoy all the gushy, romantic gifts and dates that come with the holiday of love, so now’s the time switch it up and make sure he feels just as appreciated as he makes you feel in a “guy-friendly” way he’ll enjoy.  So there’s no need to worry about what you’re going to do for your man on Thursday, because here are 4 fun, easy and non-cheesy ways to spend Valentine’s Day.

Do something outdoors and active
Since we live in the beautiful city of San Luis Obispo with multiple fun trails and places to hike, why not spend some time with your significant other for Valentine’s Day out in nature.  Not only is the scenery beautiful and romantic, but this also gives him a chance to still be a dude and do something he’ll enjoy a lot more than watching a chick-flick in the movie theaters filled with swooning teenage girls.  

Hiking gives you two a chance to talk and get to know each other more without any distractions and give him a chance to adore you even more for toughing it out in nature with him.  You may be surprised by how fun it will be to get out of your comfort zone.
Suggestion: Bishop’s Peak, Montana de Oro

Cook dinner for him
Instead of going out to dinner with every other couple in the city waiting for minutes on end for an open table, cook dinner at home instead!  The way to a guy’s heart is through his stomach, so he’ll be in the best mood if his tummy is full and happy.  Taking the time to prepare a nice meal for him will show how much you appreciate him, and most guys find a girl who knows how to cook very attractive.

Even if you don’t know how to cook, find a simple recipe such as pasta and salad to whip up.  He’ll probably be impressed either way.  If you really want to make it even more fun and special, allow him to prepare dinner with you! Cooking dinner together will most likely bring you closer and allow for more flirting opportunities.
Suggestion: steak and potatoes, homemade burgers, pasta and salad

Gift him a late night snack
Wait a minute, I sense a trend here…YES, more food ideas.  For some reason, guys are hungry all the time.  Luckily, there are many fast, easy, and yummy places around town for them to go to get a bite to eat in between classes or after a late night with buddies.  Get him a few $5-10 gift cards to common places he likes to eat.
Suggestion: Chipotle, The Habit, Subway, Panda Express, Taco Bell, Pita Pit

Satisfy his sweet tooth
I just thought I’d continue the food trend we have going with one last suggestion: bake him something yummy.  Nothing says “I really appreciate you” more than homemade cookies, cake, brownies, or anything your heart desires to bake.  It is personalized and thoughtful since you put the time and effort into baking him a delicious present, but it’s also cheap! You have the chance to decorate and add your girly Pinterest flair if you want.

If you’re lacking a kitchen, then go out and buy a cookie cake with a personalized frosting message since, let’s face it, everyone loves cookie cakes.  Another thoughtful gift would be to get an assortment of his favorite cookies from a bakery.
Suggestion: funfetti cake, brownies, Cowboy Cookies