The distance couples deal with in LDRs can be straining, but especially heinous on holidays like Valentine’s Day. Anyone in an LDR could agree that they would love nothing more than to spend the day with their SO. But as someone who has spent the last three years long distance on V-Day, I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve on how to keep the romance alive! Here are 5 ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day with your long distance SO.
1. Virtual Date
Just because your SO is miles away, doesn’t mean celebrating Valentine’s Day isn’t possible. With the power of technology, you can transcend the distance. Plan a night with your SO to have a date via video chat for some special face-to-face time. Get dolled up, order your favorite cuisine, light some candles and cue the romantic music – you’ll forget all about the long distance probs while you enjoy a special night with the boo.
2. Exchange Gifts
With a little bit of planning, you can still exchange gifts with your partner! One year, my BF surprised me by sending roses to my classroom! The PDA of an SO’s love will feel extra special. Beyond the traditional flowers and teddie, try sending thoughtful gifts you know your SO will love. If the budget is tight, sending a love letter is a great option, too. Just keep in mind, Valentine’s Day is a crazy time for the post office, so plan in advance when to send your gifts so they make it there on time for V-Day.
3. Watch A Movie Together
While Skype isn’t everyone’s #1 option for video chatting, it offers a unique service called “screen mirroring.” For those of you that don’t know what this is, it’s basically the ability to show the other end of the video call what’s on your screen. Whoever that’s paying for the Netflix or Hulu subscription can screen mirror and then pull up a movie or show and voila! Instant movie night for LDRs! Give it a try and download Skype (it’s free) for your date on Valentine’s Day.
4. Spend the Night Talking
If there’s one thing couples in LDRs all deal with, it’s making time out of each other’s crazy schedules for one-on-one time. Designate this V-Day to some serious down time to just talk. Whether it’s over the phone or via video chat, putting aside the long hours will make your SO feel super loved.
5. Postpone the Romance
V-Day doesn’t have to be reserved as the one day out of the year for extra romance. A personal choice in my LDR is to postpone the romance and wait to celebrate together when we are back in the same timezone. Of course, call and exchange your daily ILYs, but don’t stress if you choose another day to celebrate.
No matter what you choose to do, just remember that Valentine’s Day isn’t the only day of the year reserved for extraordinary measures in romance. Granted it’s nice to be treated with extra love on this holiday, these acts of affection can be done any day of the year. If you are choosing to celebrate V-Day with your SO while long distance, stay strong! Try out one of these ideas to overcome the distance and enjoy a special night with your boo.