Keeping Valentines Day Simple and Local

 It is 2021, and even though Valentines Day technically falls on a weekend this year, many people will opt to stay in or celebrate in a less traditional way this year. I took a brief survey, if you will, on my social media page asking friends how they typically celebrate this day set aside for love, if they even do at all! 

The overall consensus was that most give a small gift to their immediate family- spouse, children, grandchildren. Chocolates, candies, stuffed toys, and such were the most popular mentioned. When asked about valentines sent to school, everyone agreed the inexpensive, ready made cards from the store are still their preferred way to go. Another easy option is the printable downloads you can find online and print at home. 

I discovered years ago that going out to eat on Valentines Day is just too "people-y" for me and I just don't find waiting over an hour (even WITH a reservation!!) to be romantic! So here are my suggestions for taking it easy this year (and staying healthy!).

1. Enjoy dinner in. Each year I make something special in a heart shaped pan, like meatloaf or brownies! Last year, I took our favorite food items from our favorite restaurants and recreated them! It was a labor of love but it was AMAZING! (it was the Gorgonberry Pecan salad from Bru Burger, baked spaghetti because it is my son's favorite in general, followed by the Macadamia Nut Brownie with vanilla ice cream from Bonefish Grill...mmmmmm!). I know many that are planning to do takeout or Doordash, but I imagine the wait will be extreme! 

2. Exchange simple gifts- homemade cards and gifts from children are such treasures! Trust me, as the mother of a 23 year old son, TRUST. ME. One year I even told my not-very-romantic-husband that I would be happy if he just wrote "I Love You" on a piece of paper for me! He did. And I still have it! He even drew it in a heart for me. Swoon. 

This is also a great opportunity to support small businesses in your community. Ask on Facebook if you aren't familiar with any, you'd be surprised what is out there! Here is a list of a few of our faves here in Indy: 

Once Upon A Party (duh!)- we are offering several options including cookie gift sets and balloon bouquets
Send a Friend Lasagna- This will take care of dinner and dessert as they are partnering with Circle City Sweets! 
Indiana Gifts- a variety of locally sourced gifts, and there is truly something for everyone! 
​Etsy also has a search function that allows you to search for products made in your own state!

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3. Try something new​- who says Valentines Day requires dinner and chocolate? With it falling on a Sunday, consider brunch at a local eatery instead. Head to your favorite coffee shop in your neighborhood. Enjoy a daytime activity (outdoors if it is bearable!).
4. DIY- but get inspiration from others, don't reinvent the wheel! Our group over on Facebook, OUAP Family Fun Finders, is intended to provide you with DIY tips and tricks for entertaining! Here is a nice article as well with some fun ideas from another blogger, "Let Me Give You Some Advice".

Simply put, use this day as an excuse to pause and show affection for the ones you care about most, while supporting some other local families around you so you can show them some LOVE this year as well! Have any other ideas to share with us? Drop a comment for our readers! 

XOXO, 
​Shauna