Rachel: As a female in a new relationship, this topic is very relevant to me! I’m so excited to spend Valentine’s Day with my new “bae” but different expectations we both hold was a conversation we needed to have. Personally, I appreciate less extravagant things that are more thoughtful than they are pricey so I set a budget. This way neither of us get overwhelmed with price points and overwhelming plans. With that said, I do think surprises and unexpected plans are a great way for guys to show their affection. Either way, it’s important for that conversation to be had if you are still getting to know someone.
Marlon: Dropping the hint for Bae to surprise you for V-day, Rach? Very clever! On the topic of Valentine’s Day, though, I have some advice for all you young lovers out there–skip it! When you are in a fresh relationship and crazy in love (Ahem, Rachel), you spend most of your time together showing your affection, going on dates, surprising each other with nice gifts, etc. It’s all so wonderful! So why put undue pressure on yourselves to go even more out of your way to conform to a holiday that celebrates what is basically your life anyways? let’s face it–Valentine’s Day is for the ol’ fuddy-duddies who have been together for years. At that point, it is easy to get into a routine. Valentine’s Day serves as a chance to take time for the relationship and spend quality moments together in a crazy world. New, young couples are busy on their all-expenses paid honeymoon to Happyville–anymore gushiness, and you are just overdoing it.
Rachel: Alright, alright Marlon. Good point… With all aspects considered, I think Valentine’s Day, then, is a day to spend however you want. If you want to go all out and spend more money than your Visa will allow, do it. If you don’t want to spend any money and spend the day under the covers binge-watching romantic comedies or Grey’s Anatomy, do it. If you want to spend this year’s holiday to go out on a simple date and just be happy with whomever you please? Do it! I agree with you that it can be a day to ignite the spark that has died down after thirty or forty years but, in my case, it’s new and exciting and I’m still excited to make the Hallmark holiday special.
Marlon: Well put! Ultimately, Valentine’s Day is what you make it: whether that be a romantic candlelit dinner at the Cheesecake Factory, being serenaded outside your bedroom window, or buying yourself flowers while he stays home playing video games, as long as you are happy, enjoy the day. Do what fits with your relationship, and free yourself from the stress associated with living up to the hype surrounding the most romantic day of the year. The beauty of Valentine’s day is that it is personal. Make it what you want.
And for those of you who are single like me? General Tso always makes great company.