Pandemic or no pandemic, an at-home Valentine’s Day is a brilliant choice. Here are three ideas for how you can switch up your routine and observe themes of love in your most cozy and intimate setting, home.

1. Galentine’s Festivities & Local Treats

galentine's day treats
Dolce Delfino
valentine's treats

If you know you’re both being as safe as possible, consider inviting a gal pal over to indulge in quality time and freshly baked treats from a local baker. My hometown friend, Gabby, started her own bakery business, Dolce Delfino, and I’ve been so excited to share her goodies with you all!

Based out of her home kitchen in Franklin, Massachusetts, she accepts local orders through her bakery’s Instagram, offering both delivery and pick-up. Her ‘Dolce Boxes’ come in a variety of sizes to help you present a beautiful dessert charcuterie spread, and include an assortment of homemade treats and seasonal candies. Pictured here is her festive ‘Valentine’s Day Dolce Box,’ which pairs nicely with champagne or mocktail spritzers.

Supporting local businesses and budding entrepreneurs in your community is a great way to spread the spirit of Cupid’s bow! Bakery deliveries are also a sweet way to conveniently drop a gift at a loved one’s doorstep and brighten their day.

2. Kitchen Kisses & Italian Dinner for Two

sausage pasta with side salad
charcuterie board

Cook a dinner together that’s outside of your norm, or get takeout. Jim and I make an amazing team when we cook together, and we have fun doing it. If you’re stuck on what to make, you should check out our recipe for Al Fresco Chicken Sausage & Ricotta Cavatelli. Preparing this dinner is incredibly stress-free thanks to Mama Rosie’s frozen pasta and other easy-prep-picks like Al Fresco chicken sausage, a Caesar Light Kit by Fresh Express, and frozen broccoli florets. If you tend to eat late or like to graze, nibble on a simple appetizer tray while you cook, sip on some fine wine, and say “così delizioso”!

Go a little “extra” and set the scene for a romantic evening with a tablecloth and candles, ask Alexa to play the Italian Restaurant playlist on Spotify, and break out the fancy dinnerware and flatware you save for special occasions only. Take a refreshing step out of your sweats and embrace a dressy transformation that will be sure to spice things up! Dressing up doesn’t have to be reserved for leaving the house; it can also be a way to observe special moments with those you love at home.

3. Simple Pleasures & Activities

wooden chess set
young woman playing chess

Now that I’ve covered dinner and dessert ideas, I wanted to share a few ideas for activities, at-home and local, that will spark joy through the power of simplicity:

  • Challenge each other to a board game. We’ve been loving chess! This also serves as a reminder to watch The Queen’s Gambit if you haven’t already. The Netflix-original will inspire you to invest in a chess set and become a grandmaster overnight!
  • Explore a nearby nature path or bike trail. Getting exercise and fresh air is a great way to start the day, as the endorphins, oxygen, and vitamin D will improve your mood. Tasty bites always taste better when you earn it too!
  • Plan ahead. While many of us are still holding back on travel, we can still dream. Have fun researching potential vacation destinations on Pinterest, setting goals for your life together, and brainstorming new traditions. We’ll be researching venues for our 2022 wedding!

It’s easy to slip into routines, so try something new! In the comments below, share how you shake up your routine and add your creative ideas for at-home eats and activities to the list. I love to hear from you, and I wish you a Happy Valentine’s (and Galentine’s) Day!

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