You don’t have to go to lavish extremes to plan a thoughtful Valentine’s Day for you and your loved one. Instead, you can craft a sustainable celebration at home and avoid the bustling restaurants and traffic. All you need are some simple accents and tasty treats to make the day perfect.
Read on as we walk you through the steps needed to plan a sustainable Valentine’s Day at home.
Create a Warm and Inviting Space
Lighting always makes a big difference when it comes to setting the tone for a romantic evening. You can set the mood with the right selection of energy-efficient lights in a range of warmer whites. If possible, use a dimmer switch to create a softer, calmer atmosphere. Alternatively, you can tap into lamps and LED lights, such as LED candles, to create a softer space. Avoid using overhead lights that can seem harsh and too cool.
Select Ethically-Sourced Gifts
Don’t feel obligated to reach for high-ticket gifts on Valentine’s Day. Sometimes, the best gifts are simple and thoughtful. And if you’re aiming for a more sustainable approach, be intentional about choosing gifts made from recycled materials and limit your packaging. You could even make your own gifts, like homemade treats or candles. Chocolates, of course, are always a romantic gift choice when it comes to Valentine’s Day gifts ideas. Look for fair-trade cocoa and check the chocolate company’s manufacturing practices so you’re choosing sweet treats that are eco-friendly.
Elevate Your Cooking Practices
A delicious, home-cooked meal can be the centerpiece of any Valentine’s Day celebration. You can make this experience more sustainable by investing in better and more efficient cooking tools. With induction cooktops, for instance, you’ll be able to heat your food quickly and use less energy in the process. If you haven’t upgraded your cooktop, use lids and be savvy about how you prepare your food to limit extra heating. Additionally, source your meal’s ingredients from local farmers or markets. And make beans or lentils the focus of your meal to keep your carbon footprint lower. Lentils with vegetables and lemony seasonings plus homemade bread can be a nurturing choice on a cold Valentine’s Day.
Limit Screen Time
Too much screen time can take away from any group experience. On Valentine’s Day, you want the focus to be on you and your loved one, and the relationship you share. Put away the phones and turn off the TV. Instead, share reflections about what you appreciate about each person. Read a book excerpt or some poetry together. Or simply sit and listen to a favorite record. You’ll gain more by investing in being present for one another on Valentine’s Day.
Celebrate Sustainably
Sustainable practices can shape a rewarding and memorable Valentine’s Day at home. Turn off your screens and be present in the moment. Prepare a home-cooked meal that sources its ingredients from local markets. Turn on ambient lighting and be mindful of your cooking practices. When you’re intentional about how you approach this holiday, it can be a celebration that aligns with your values.
