Valentine’s Day shouldn’t be the only day love is expressed. But I can’t lie ~ the fact that there’s a full 24 hours dedicated to acts of love makes me feel all warm inside, real bad.

Yes, I’m aware that Valentine’s Day has a darker origin. But just like with most things, if we choose to focus on the negative, that’s exactly what we’ll get. Thankfully, over the years, this holiday has evolved into something much bigger than romantic love alone. It’s no longer just for couples. We celebrate Galentine’s Day, and something newer to me, Single Awareness Day, also known as S.A.D. (the irony…I know 🙃).

S.A.D. honors individuals who have made peace with singlehood in a society that constantly pushes being coupled up. And honestly? That makes me happy. I love the idea of someone being at peace with themselves.

Now, back to the heart of this blog.

I am a lover girl. I love spreading and sharing love. I love seeing people smile and handwritten cards. I love watching someone light up when I do something for them that they didn’t even think they deserved. That’s my love language. So naturally, Valentine’s Day fits me like a theme song.

For the past few years, I’ve turned Valentine’s Day into a self-care day. While I pour into others, I’m also very intentional about loving on myself a little extra. That usually looks like a spa visit, a facial, spending a little more on a piece of jewelry or my favorite scent, and of course, buying myself flowers or doing nothing at all.

But if you’re a lover girl too with friend girls you want to love on, here are a few inexpensive and thoughtful gift ideas:

Don’t count out thrift stores. They’re full of hidden gems~you just have to shop with intention.
Listen to your friends. And I mean really listen. Read between the lines. I have a friend who collects matches, one who loves shot glasses, and some who live for a good book.
Create small, personalized baskets using a few of their favorite things.
Start early. Valentine’s Day is February 14 every year. There’s no need to rush. Pick things up little by little. Dollar Tree, Five Below, and Michaels are great go-to spots.
Bake if you can. And if baking isn’t your thing, grocery stores have plenty of Valentine treats you can bag, wrap, and gift with love.
For the flower lovers, Trader Joe’s has beautiful, affordable bouquets. You can also get creative with dried flowers from Amazon for something that lasts longer.
Pinterest is also my go-to for all things girly and creative gift ideas.

As I’m writing this, I realize Valentine’s Day isn’t about perfection or price tags-it’s about intention. It’s about noticing people. It’s about choosing love in small, meaningful ways. And it’s also about remembering that the person you should never forget to love on is yourself. Both things can exist. Both things matter.

At the end of the day, Valentine’s Day is about thoughtfulness. It’s about showing love without expectation and honoring yourself in the process. And I think that’s something worth celebrating….not just on February 14, but every day.

💋with Love ♥️,

Ranata