Well, love birds, another February 14th has come and passed, leaving you swooning, feeling blue, or perhaps relieved. Try as you might to carry a heart-shaped chip on your shoulder and scoff at the couples exchanging smooches, it’s no secret that a simple card or surprise Valentine’s Day phone call can soften the blow of long distance love or longing for love. Luckily, commercialism has prevailed once again, and while Valentine’s Day is still a couple’s holiday, it can now be shared between friends, parents, children, and even co-workers. So, here are the Top Ten cheesy, but endearing, Valentine’s Day treats so you can be prepared come the next February 14th!
1. The Mix Tape: The gift that says it all, whether you want Jason Mraz, Adele, or the Glee Cast to say it for you. Geared toward the guy you want to always have you on the brain (and who probably already does).
2. Conversation Hearts: It’s all in the message: “Be Mine,” “Mad 4 U,” “Rock On.” The perfect way to brighten a pal’s day.
3. Movie Marathon: While this may seem all-girls-sleepover-esque, it is a great date plan at any stage in any relationship. Grab some popcorn and get cozy in front of a movie filled with boom-box-hoisting teenage boys or over-dramatic kisses when the lead pair finally gets together. Who knew?!
4. The Notebook: Excluded from movie marathons. You have to be prepared for what you are getting in to with this chick flick. What a way for fellas to snag some brownie points with their main squeeze.
5. Bag Full of Love Notes: A throwback to the elementary school days where Rocket Power valentines from your crush mingled with scratch-and-sniff stickers from your best friend. Customize a bag of sweet nothings for Mom or buddies, or go above and beyond and bring one in for everyone at work.
6. Roses: They smell good, they look good, and they make you feel good. Even if they won’t admit it, every girl loves a Valentine’s Day rose…or a dozen.
7. Secret Admirers: This infamous Valentine technique is always one to keep in the repertoire. Maybe you’re shy, maybe you’re taken but can’t help but have a little crush, or maybe you still get a kick out of watching the recipient’s face when they find out they have an anonymous admirer.
8. Chocolate: In certain cases, this is the perfect gift for yourself. It is also a fabulous fallback if you’re fresh out of romantic ideas. Be warned, though. Eating the whole box is okay on February 14th.
9. Candle-lit Dinner: Whether you make it, order it, or go out on the town, this evening activity says “I Care.” So the question is, who’s the lucky guy who will join you?
10. Stuffed Animal: The more it sings, the more your Valentine likes you. A bear pair with magnetic noses doesn’t hurt either.