Candles. Stargazing. Rereading Romeo and Juliet for the umpteenth time. Blah, blah, blah. We all know the tried and true Valentine’s Day basics. These things work, you say, so why deviate from a solid assurance of a groovy time? The same goes for gifts: flowers, fragrance, chocolate. These things have been known to please, why change them now?
Well, for one thing, changing up the standards will breathe new life to your V-day. You might just even love the changes so much you make them tradition. Now, I’m not telling you to pass up a bouquet of flowers any time soon, but I think revamping the same-old-same-old Valentine’s Day routine can add some much needed freshness to your holiday. Take the following quiz to see what kind of Valentine’s Day girl you are:
1.) My favorite movie to watch on Valentine’s Day is:
a.Anything with Molly Ringwald—Pretty in Pink, The Breakfast Club, Sixteen Candles—all of these movies transcend the boundaries of chick flicks and enter into visions of young love, acceptance of social awkwardness, and, of course, witty humor.
b.Titanic. Watching Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet declare their undying love for each other even as the ship is sinking just makes my heart throb.
c.Valentine’s Day! The interwoven narratives of so many different types of love is just so interesting to watch, and it warms the heart to see each attain their own version of a happy ending. And, come on, Ashton Kutcher, Taylor Lautner, and Bradley Cooper in together in one blockbuster—how can you go wrong?
d.John Tucker Must Die. Seeing how these girls try to avenge the cheating jerk in a series of doomed attempts is hilarious, yet empowering. And Brittany Snow’s character even finds love amidst the turmoil.
2.) Your favorite person to spend that special day with:
a.My best friend! We usually have so much fun pouring over magazines, sipping lattes, and just passing the hours with no regard to the clocks. No time like a girl’s night out, either!
b.My significant other, duh. Not even a question. He probably has something über romantic planned, and I’m going to wear my slinkiest dress to compliment the occasion.
c.My family, my friends, the more the merrier. There’s no such thing as a holiday party with too many people. Champagne, soulful music, and a dance floor is my recipe for a good time.
d.Me, myself, and I are the only company I need. I don’t want to have to fall into anyone else’s version of a good time: I DJ my own V-Day parties, and just took a class on how to make some truly fabulous hors d’oeuvres.
3.) Your ideal Valentine’s date would be:
a.A romantic dinner at a restaurant. He’d play our song during the car ride over and we’d finish the night with an exchange of thoughtful gifts.
b.Definitely something swanky, like dancing at a jazz club. You know what they say: couples that dance together know how to find the perfect rhythm together.
c.A picnic double date. As long as we can laugh over the potato salad and play some park games, I’m happy.
d.Something adventurous, like a wilderness hike or rock climbing. It’s different, fun, and gets the adrenaline rushing. Nothing like bonding over shared accomplishment to put you in the mood for love.
4.) What’s your preferred Valentine’s Day ensemble?
a.Well, the best part of this holiday is, of course, the pink. Hot, pastel, or pale—each shade has potential to make an awesome outfit. And don’t forget the matching heart earrings (Hey, it is the one day of the year I can be super girly and not feel guilty.)
b. Red, red, red. It’s sultry, looks stunning on anyone, and is the color of confidence.
c.A conversation piece. Standing out from the crowd doesn’t bother me, and if it can attract they eye of a cutie, the outfit has done its job.
d.Something not cliché but still warm, like a soft denim skirt and a white button down. It’s a departure from tradition, and I’ll stand out amongst the sea of red and pink.
Mostly a’s: You are true and true a girl’s girl. You love hanging out with your friends, and maintaining those friendships is as important to you as having a significant other. Besides, there are only a few people with whom you can indulge in chick flicks, paint your nails, and have true heart-to-hearts: your girlfriends! To keep from falling into a clichéd V-day, try doing something creative, like writing a love song to karaoke later (extra props if it’s at a public venue.) This is all about going out of your comfort zone.
Mostly b’s: You are a romantic at heart. Traditional methods please you best, but don’t be afraid to try new things. Your bond is what’s important, so building new experiences together can bring new depths to your relationship. Your ideal departure from V-day clichés already has the most essential element: each other! Try doing a theme date, like 80’s pop or 70’s rock.
Mostly c’s: You are a people’s person. Being surrounded by loved ones, be they family, friends, or otherwise, is something you cherish. You like going to packed parties and getting your club on. To change up the routine, try something more intimate. If you don’t want a one-on-one setting exactly, try a smallish dinner party. You may be surprised how much you like the intimacy.
Mostly d’s: You are a true independent. A strong sense of self and undeniable spirit are two of your important attributes. Don’t be so strong-willed that you close yourself off, though, because you never know when a chance to be open and vulnerable might forge a more meaningful relationship. Instead of gravitating towards an action-packed adventure, try going for a fantastic setting. Even just eating sandwiches and sharing a quiet conversation seem more impactful in view of an ocean or mountainside.
So remember, lovely collegiettes, when planning your Valentine’s Day, don’t be afraid to try something new, even if it is a departure from your comfort zone. Don’t become so stuck in the usual “romantic” things that your day becomes a cliché. And for goodness sakes’, put down Romeo and Juliet and go find a Montague of your own!
Photocredits: heart candied bars http://fbworld.com.s78657.gridserver.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/HeartCrackle_020.jpg
Heart candy: http://blog.tinyprints.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/Candy-Hearts.jpg