Did you know that being financially responsible is sexy?
Here are some frugal and fun ways to show you care this Valentine’s Day.
Experiences bring us closer
Firstly, ditch the idea you need to give an item or object. Research has shown that gifts of experiences rather than items make our loved ones feel closer to us, especially shared experiences. (Chan & Mogilner, 2017.)
- Play a favourite board or card game you haven’t played in ages.
- Go for a walk or drive in nature and take the time to dip your feet in a stream, watch the sunset, or look up at the stars.
- Volunteer together preparing or delivering meals for people who are struggling right now.
Quiz your partner
Deepen your connection by swapping your usual conversation topics for a research-informed relationship quiz.
One of my favourite quizzes to get to know each other, especially in new-ish relationships, is these 36 Questions for Increasing Closeness.
For those couples who have been together a while discover how well you know each other with the relationship quiz by world-renowned relationship researchers, The Gottman Institute.
If you’re thinking of deepening your commitment, the Gottmans also have the 52 Questions Before Marriage or Moving In Card Deck.
Or for a little more spice try the free Gottman Card Decks.
Give an experience of their love language
In his book The 5 Love Languages, Dr Gary Chapman explains that everyone gives and receives love and appreciation differently. And each of us will have a hierarchy of the five languages such that one or two methods really mean a lot to us, while another method may barely register for us.
The 5 Love Languages are:
- Words of Affirmation
- Quality Time
- Acts of Service
- Physical Touch
- Gifts
Make your partner feel seen by designing an experience that incorporates their love language.
Or discovering their love language may be the experience. After cooking a delicious meal for them take the free quiz on the 5 Love Languages website.
Wishing you a magical and memorable experience with your Valentine!