Well, it’s 80 degrees today in Columbia as I’m writing this. While I appreciate not having to dress like I’m about to enter the frozen tundra when I take the dogs out, I’d rather not be sweating in February haha. I am through and through a cool/cold weather lover, so these temps are throwing me off big time. Apparently they call Columbia the “armpit of the south” lol. Rightfully so, I guess.
But it is still February after all, and Valentine’s Day is basically here. As I mentioned in one of my recent Instagram posts, I’ve never really been big on Valentine’s Day. Mainly because I think it’s silly to spend money to show your special someone that you love them. Maybe it didn’t start out that way, but Valentine’s is so commercialized these days. Did they not make enough money off of us at Christmas?? And maybe I’m a little cynical because I was always the one getting flowers and balloons from my parents when I was in school instead of my class crush. Not to mention, as a military couple, I think Kevin and I have gotten to celebrate exactly one Valentine’s Day since we’ve known each other.
Of course, I LOVE doing sweet things for my hubby, and he loves doing the same for me, so I guess a day dedicated to each other isn’t so bad. And we will jump at any excuse for a date night, so we will definitely take advantage of that this year since we’re together. But instead of going out and spending tons of money on flowers or jewelry or…what does one actually buy their man for Valentine’s Day? Chocolate? Boxers with hearts on them? I don’t even know haha. Kevin and I have always preferred more thoughtful gifts. Things that are hand made and have meaning behind them. So today, I thought I’d share some of the DIY Valentines I’ve made over the years. Things that we still talk about each year, and things that we still have on the fridge or stored away in safe place. They really are so fun and simple. Oh, and affordable!
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Each of the ideas below I have personally done myself at some point. Click the headers in pink to read more detailed descriptions. Also, be sure to follow me on Pinterest for more fun Valentine’s ideas and outfit inspiration!
Truth or Dare Jenga
All you need is a sharpie and a knock off jenga game set! So cheap! You will write questions or dares on random blocks (or multiple per block). You can really do this however you want. Get creative! When you’re playing, whatever block you pull out, you have to either answer the question or do the dare. So much fun! And you can totally tailor this to wherever you are in your relationship.
52 Reasons Why Deck of Cards
You’ll need a deck of cards, a sharpie (or a computer/printer if you want to type them), ribbon, and a hole punch. All you do is write one reason why you love him per card and bind them together with the ribbon to make a cute little book!
Personalized Beer Bottle Labels
You can totally make these on your own from scratch using a program like Word or Photoshop, or you can buy them for cheap from sites like Etsy. Totally up to you! I had so much fun making these. Things got extra punny.
LoveBook
I made one of these for Kevin before his first deployment, but they also make great Valentine’s gifts! You basically write any story (how you met, what you see for your future, etc), create the illustrations and then the book is made and shipped to you. This one does cost a little bit of money, but it’s so cute and thoughtful. Kevin takes his on every deployment now!
Scavenger Hunt
This may take a little more time and planning, but it’s so much fun! You can create your clues from scratch, or print off clue cards from several online sites. This is a super cute way to lead your man to his gift or to tell him about a date night you’ve planned.
Memories Collage/Scrapbook
This is probably the most DIY-y of all the DIY gifts haha. It allows you to get super creative and make it as personal as possible. You can do this on a canvas, in a scrapbook, or pretty much however you want. Include things like photos from early on in your relationship, tickets to your favorite movies or events (I’m not the only one that saves those, am I?), words that describe your relationship, inside jokes, and more. This is another great gift idea if your man travels a lot or is in the military and deploys often. It’s something they can put in their bag and take with them everywhere.
Love Coupons
I know, this is little cheesy. But if you’re man is like mine and always wanting a back scratch, this is a great way to limit him lol. No more coupons, no more back scratches babe, sry.
Handmade Cards
This is one of my favorite things to do on Valentines, and Kevin loves them too. I LOVE to make him a bunch of “punny” cards and give them to him throughout the day, or even as clues for a scavenger hunt! You can even stick one or two in his work bag/lunch to make hime smile throughout the day!
Bake His Favorite _________
We all know the way to man’s heart is through his stomach. Kevin loves baked goods, especially my homemade sugar cookies. Make him some cupcakes or cookies and have him help you decorate them!
I hope you enjoyed this gift ideas post! I know it’s a little different from typical gift guides, but since we don’t spend a lot on gifts for Valentine’s, I wouldn’t pressure you to. Let me know if you enjoy posts like this and what your favorite DIY gift idea is! Have a wonderful weekend, friends!
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xo
Hayley
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