Each person grows up in a different household, with unique surroundings and people who shape them — which means everyone learns to give and receive love in their own way. These expressions are called love languages: the ways we feel most loved and appreciated by our partner. While we may enjoy all forms of affection, most people connect deeply with one or two that resonate most.
The five love languages are words of affirmation, physical touch, quality time, acts of service, and gift giving. Taking a love language test with your partner can help you both understand how you naturally show and prefer to receive love. Often, we express love in the way we like to receive it. For example, if I feel loved when my partner compliments me, I might compliment him to show affection. But if that’s not his primary love language, my efforts might not make him feel as appreciated as I intend.
Here are some creative and cozy ways to connect with your and your partner’s love languages this winter season! ❄️
Words of affirmation
For those whose love language is words of affirmation, verbal encouragement, appreciation, and reassurance mean everything. A few kind words can go a long way in making your partner feel valued and loved. Compliments such as “I’m so proud of you,” or “You make my day better just by being in it” can instantly brighten their mood.
This winter, find small, thoughtful ways to express your love through words. Write them a heartfelt letter, leave sticky notes with sweet messages around the house, send a good-morning or good-night text, or whisper something sweet before bed. Whether it’s spoken, written, or sent digitally, words of love and appreciation will warm their heart even on the coldest days. ❄️❤️
Physical touch
For those whose love language is physical touch, closeness and gentle affection speak louder than words. Simple gestures like holding hands in public, cuddling on the couch, or resting your hand on their thigh while driving can make them feel loved, safe, and connected. There’s nothing quite like feeling close to the person you care about most.
During these cold evenings, snuggle up under a blanket, sip hot chocolate, and binge-watch your favourite show together. You can also share a slow dance in the kitchen, give spontaneous hugs, or hold them a little longer before leaving the house — sometimes, the smallest touches leave the biggest impact. ❄️💞
Quality time
For many couples, quality time is one of the most meaningful love languages. Spending time with your favourite person — whether it’s exploring new places, trying a new restaurant, hitting a late-night gym session, or simply relaxing on the couch together — creates moments that make you feel deeply loved and connected. It’s less about what you’re doing and more about being fully present with each other.
During the winter months, quality time becomes even more special. Cozy up with matching blankets, take a snowy evening walk with a hot chocolate in hand, or plan a weekend getaway to a cabin for a change of scenery. Even simple moments like cooking a warm meal together or decorating for the holidays can become core memories when shared with intention.
For long-distance couples, you can still make the season feel warm and connected. Try watching the same winter movie and debriefing after, having virtual study sessions, or surprising each other with an online food delivery. Even sending short voice notes or planning your next winter trip together can help close the distance. ❄️❤️
Acts of service
Doing something kind for your partner without being asked is one of the most heartfelt ways to show love. Whether it’s buying them something they’ve had their eye on for a while, cooking their favourite meal “just because,” or giving them a back massage after a long week, these small gestures speak volumes. Acts of service show care through effort — it’s love in action.
This winter season, surprise your partner with a cozy “brr basket” filled with treats and little things they’ve been wanting. Bake their favourite holiday dessert, help them with a task they’ve been putting off, or plan a thoughtful outing like concert or sports tickets as a Christmas gift. The thought and effort behind these moments will warm their heart more than anything else. ❄️💝
Gift giving
For those whose love language is gift giving, thoughtful presents are more than just material things — they’re meaningful symbols of love and attention. This love language is about the effort and intention behind the gift, not its price tag.
If you enjoy putting care into your presents and have a partner who loves receiving them, this one is a perfect match. A great way to create the perfect gift is to pay attention when your partner mentions something they’ve been wanting or needing. Jot it down right away so you can surprise them later for a birthday, holiday, or “just because” moment. You can also take a trip to their favourite store, notice what catches their eye, and keep a running list of ideas.
When the holiday season arrives, you’ll have a collection of meaningful gift ideas ready to go — and you can even share the list with family or friends who want to spoil them too. Pair your thoughtful present with a heartfelt note, and you’ll give them something to remember all winter long. 🎁❄️
No matter what your or your partner’s love language may be, the most important thing is the effort and intention behind how you show love. Taking the time to understand how your partner feels most appreciated can bring you closer together and strengthen your relationship. This winter, slow down, be present, and find little ways to express love every day — whether it’s through kind words, a cozy cuddle, quality moments, thoughtful gestures, or meaningful gifts. After all, love is about making each other feel seen, valued, and cherished — and that’s the warmest feeling of all. ❄️✨