1. Cupcakes
“Baking together is a romantic and fun way to connect. Pick a cupcake recipe that’s sumptuous and decadent, but not complicated. For example, you might want to bake cupcakes and top them with a rich, chocolate icing. One of the easiest and most delicious icings, a ganache, calls for only two ingredients: cream and chocolate. All you have to do is bring one cup of heavy cream to a boil and pour over one cup of chopped chocolate. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth and creamy.” — Alison Schaffer, Simple Sugar Bakery
2. Spa at Home
Purchase a spa kit for one-third of the price that is usually costs to visit a salon or wellness center. Take a couple hours on Valentine’s Day to truly relax and have a Zen experience at home with your date. Lily Organics has an easy-to-use package for at-home convenience with products that are simple, refreshing and soothing. Crawling into bed will be much easier after a relaxing spa day.
3. Services at Home
Arrange for luxurious services at home. Call a local cooking school, massage school or wellness center for recommendations. They probably have a list of students willing to come to your home to massage or cook for you at a discounted rate. This could be a very special treat for Valentine’s Day.
4. Cooking Class
Check your local directory for cooking schools in your area. Many offer special Valentine’s Day classes. Have some fun in someone else’s kitchen. Make a mess and don’t worry about cleaning up the pots and pans. Many classes will even have desserts for you to take home afterwards. Who knows, you might pick up an interesting new trick to use in the kitchen next time you’re cooking up something special for your loved one.
5. Catch a Flick
Rent, download or order a romantic flick from yesteryear. Whether you choose Casablanca, Sleepless in Seattle or When Harry Met Sally, set the mood with a classic film. Make a tasty bowl of popcorn and curl up on the couch together. The whole evening could cost less than $5.
>> LovingYou readers pick the top 20 most romantic movies of all time
6. Pottery Class
This is a great for any age. There are places such as All Fired Up! and other pottery outlets that allow you to come in for a few hours and design a pot, plate or anything clay they have on their shelves. Create a Valentine’s Day vase or dish to be used on future dates.
Next page: Salsa dancing, board games and more!
