Alternative Valentine’s Day Options

CELEBRATIONS | by ALEXANDRA SMITH

AH, VALENTINE’S DAY. WHAT OTHER HOLIDAY INSPIRES SO MUCH anticipation, pressure or, depending on one’s relationship status, loathing? Dinner, flowers and candy feel generic, but a weekend in Waikiki is probably out of the question. Relax ― there are other options.

© iSTOCKPHOTO.COM

• Swap dinner for breakfast. Valentine’s Day falls on a Sunday this year, and what better day for a leisurely, calorie-laden breakfast in bed? French toast, eggs benedict and a mimosa or two shared atop your cozy down comforter is infinitely more intimate ― and less expensive ― than dinner at Chez Louis.
• Think old-school. Remember when Valentine’s Day meant passing out cutout cards and conversation hearts? Celebrate more innocent times with mix tapes (CDs if you must), cupcakes and construction-paper cards. Then throw in something personal like a favorite Disney movie or you and your sweetheart’s childhood photos framed side-by-side.
• Think really old-school. Back in the day, anonymous, hand-written notes were the V-Day standard for lovebirds and admirers-from-afar. Take a cue and ditch the Hallmark card. Write (or, steal from Shakespeare ) a verse on quality stationary, then slip it into your loved one’s mailbox, briefcase or back-pocket. The gesture is sweet, even if it’s obvious you’re the secret admirer.

Valentine-less this year? Not to worry. Each of these ideas can be adapted for friends and family. Host a girly pajama brunch, make friendship bracelets with your besties, or just pen your pals a reminder of how much they mean to you.