Simple but creative Valentine’s Day ideas

Have you ever wondered why we exchange sweets, chocolates, flowers, hearts, and teddy bears on 14 February?

The history of Valentine’s Day is a little murky. It has its origins in an ancient Roman fertility festival called Lupercalia, which was held each year around mid-February. Later on, the Christian Church chose the same time to honour St Valentine, but which particular Valentine was revered is not known for certain, as there were several clerics around that time with that name. One theory goes that it was one who was sentenced to death by the Roman emperor Claudius II. Claudius banned marriage for young Roman men because he felt that they would make better soldiers without matrimonial attachments. Despite the order, Valentine would marry young couples in secret.

Another tells the story of a cleric jailed by Claudius II for protecting Christian people. While in prison, Valentine fell in love with his jailer’s daughter and wrote her a note shortly before his death which read simply, “With love, from your Valentine.”

However Valentine’s Day came about, it’s certain that the holiday means a lot to people; many excitedly await the day when they will spend precious time with their partners. So, with the day fast approaching, we thought we’d give you some ideas to celebrate the occasion, even if you haven’t had much time to organise something spectacular. And they’re as easy as taking out homeowner’s insurance from Dialdirect.

Recreate your first date

If you’re having a hard time thinking of something clever and thoughtful, why not try to recreate your first date? It doesn’t matter whether it was a lavish event planned weeks in advance or just a simple dinner and a movie, your partner will appreciate the considerate gesture.

Cook dinner

If you want to do something that is laid-back but still special, you could cook your partner’s favourite meal at home. A romantic dinner does not have to be an evening out at a posh restaurant; you could serve up the most delicious meal with candles and good conversation at your own dining table.

Cooking a meal together is also a great way to share the task, have a few laughs, and enjoy each other’s company, which is incredibly romantic.

Enjoy a weekend away

Valentine’s Day falls on a Sunday this year, so it’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy a romantic weekend getaway and spend quality time together. If you have children and would prefer the weekend to yourselves, why not ask their grandparents to babysit? But remember to let them know that you’ll return the favour some time.
If you have pets, there are loads of pet-sitting services that can take care of your fur kids for a night or two. And with Dialdirect’s House Insurance, there is no need to worry about your home while you’re away.

Home-made card

You’ve got an almost endless repository of templates and ideas on the internet for Valentine’s Day cards, and there are craft and scrapbooking shops all over, so it’s easy (and fun) to make your own card for your significant other. By making your own, you’re showing them that you put thought into it, and you’ll be adding your own unique character to it.

Pack a picnic

A picnic must be one of the easiest dates to organise. All you need is a basket, a blanket, some cutlery, and a selection of your favourite nibbles and drinks. South Africa has a number of exquisite public parks and most of them are free or require a minimal entrance fee. Actually, picnicking in the sun with your loved ones is an excellent way to while away an afternoon.

Write a letter

If you’re really not into giving chocolates and roses that are exchanged en masse each year, a simple, heartfelt letter is probably the best gift you could give your partner. If you’ve never written your loved one a letter, putting your thoughts onto paper can be tough at first – you might not know where to begin. But once you get started, you’ll discover a side of yourself that you (or your significant other) never knew existed. It’s a gift they can treasure forever, which makes it a pretty awesome Valentine’s Day present.