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6 DIY Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas From A Last-Minute Brown University Student

The opinions expressed in this article are the writer’s own and do not reflect the views of Her Campus.
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Brown chapter.

With Valentine’s day around the corner, I am sure that last-minute people like me are freaking out. Whether it’s for your romantic partner, your platonic friend, or a family member (yes, it might be weird, but some people do that), fear not – there are plenty of DIY options:

cards

Starting with the classic options, cards always get the job done. Writing how you feel about someone is a grand romantic gesture that may feel vulnerable but is super empowering. It’s romantic gestures like cards that may seem inexpensive or quick to make, but if genuine, can speak volumes (after all, actions speak louder than words). Even if a card may not seem enough, it’s an emotional supplementary DIY gift.

FLOWERS

Although we can buy ourselves flowers, this gift idea is a timeless go-to – and they don’t always have to be purchased. Gathering wildflowers can be an even more romantic gesture as it shows that you spent time collecting them. Want to spice things up? Buy flowers and build them in the form of a heart or a flower crown! Shapes can symbolize meaningful moments.

make an album

If you are more aesthetic or artistic, using photographs and making an album or collage is incredibly cool. Behind each picture is a story that has to be saved in the chronicles of time. Synthesizing those pictures into something tangible may serve as a memoir and a symbol of your bond.

Bake together

In the same theme of building gifts, baking a desert, cooking a meal, or both is a thoughtful and delicious gift! The dish you decide to make can relate to a memory you share or be the favorite food of the other person. Even better, offer to cook together and ensure you have the ingredients and the recipe ready.

write a love letter

Love letters are the go-to gift for more elaborate DIY ideas for the goofy romantics. Whether in a poem or an actual letter, spending time to express feelings or thoughts is a deep emotional gesture. The letter can then be saved to be read in the future or be part of the collection of more letters. Especially for people who struggle with in-person talks, letters give you the space and confidence to be your real self!

SURPRISE THEM WITH THEIR FAVORITE BOOK

The ultimate, sweetest, and original DIY idea is to buy a book – it could be the receiver’s favorite novel – and leave notes on the margins. Taking the time to read something important for the other person and express your thoughts is such a unique idea.


I hope this Valentine’s day finds everyone with special gifts ready to give or receive!

Athina is a junior from Greece studying Business Economics and Behavioral Decision Sciences. In her free time, she enjoys going to the gym and spending time with friends!